Inclusive Mobility is redefining travel independence for people with reduced mobility – ArcticStartup – ArcticStartup

Inclusive Mobility: Redefining Travel for People with Reduced Mobility

Navigating the world should be effortless for everyone, yet for millions of people with reduced mobility (PRMs), even the simplest journeys can become complex and stressful. From crowded airports to vast cruise terminals, the lack of accessible, reliable solutions forces many to rely on assistance, often stripping them of independence. Inclusive Mobility, a forward-thinking startup based in Espoo/Helsinki, is determined to change that.

Inclusive Mobility has developed a smart, user-friendly platform that redefines the travel experience for PRMs. Their innovative solution allows travelers to easily rent electric assistive devices, providing newfound freedom and autonomy during transit. With options for short-term rentals and peer-to-peer lending, Inclusive Mobility is bridging a critical gap in accessibility, ensuring that PRMs can move freely and confidently, wherever their journeys take them.

New Approaches to Mobility are Breaking Down Barriers for PRMs

Founded in early 2024, Inclusive Mobility Oy is a social-good for-profit company based in Espoo and Helsinki, on a mission to bridge the inclusivity gap in transportation. With a keen focus on improving the travel experiences of persons with reduced mobility (PRMs), the company has developed a technology platform that facilitates peer-to-peer (P2P) lending of assistive devices and short-term rentals at airports and cruise terminals. Leading the charge is a dedicated team headed by Shyam Singh, the chief architect and co-founder, alongside Jussi Nevavuori, a full-stack developer and part-time CTO. Together, they are tirelessly committed to tackling mobility challenges and enhancing accessibility for all.

The inception of Inclusive Mobility is rooted in a profound understanding of the societal gaps affecting PRMs. Their platform boasts a comprehensive marketplace that not only allows users to book and rent electric assistive devices but also serves businesses by providing automated audit recording for employee welfare benefits. This multi-faceted approach seeks to empower PRMs with the independence they deserve, enabling them to traverse leisure and business environments confidently. By aiming to incorporate diverse mobility options, including self- and autonomous devices, Inclusive Mobility is on track to redefine how PRMs experience travel.

The challenges faced by PRMs have long been overlooked, particularly in the transportation sector. Historically, the experience of navigating airports and cruise terminals has been fraught with obstacles, leading to reliance on third-party assistance or unsuitable transportation methods. Inclusive Mobility addresses these issues head-on, offering a seamless solution that enhances the dignity and self-esteem of PRMs. Their ambitious vision includes launching their services at prominent locations like CDG Paris and Miami Cruise terminals, with fully booked devices for the next three months as a testament to the demand for their services.

Through its innovative approach, Inclusive Mobility seeks to create a more accessible world for PRMs. The platform ensures that a device is readily available at the destination, making the trip smoother and more enjoyable. Their commitment to sustainability is also evident in their efforts to refurbish and repurpose electric assistive devices. By facilitating P2P lending through third-party retailers and manufacturers, Inclusive Mobility helps extend the lifecycle of these products, reduce waste, and promote a circular economy.

Urban Tech Helsinki Empowers Inclusive Mobility’s Mission

Urban Tech Helsinki has played an instrumental role in Inclusive Mobility’s journey. The support and collaborative environment have allowed the team to refine their platform and connect with like-minded individuals and organizations. The startup credits the cohort for not only providing valuable insights but also for creating opportunities for deep, meaningful collaboration. This network of experts and partners has guided them through the path of expansion, giving them a clearer view of how to navigate the startup ecosystem.

The decision to establish an urban tech startup in this environment was driven by a desire to leverage the exceptional resources available at Urban Tech Helsinki (UTH). The CEO & Founder Shyam Singh, who has a long-standing relationship with the cohort, recognized UTH as the best technical setting in Finland for fostering innovation and development. This unique opportunity not only facilitates private lessons and exchanges of knowledge but also positions Inclusive Mobility at the forefront of the evolution and purpose of accessible transportation solutions.

The city boasts a diverse array of schools of thought, with various venture capitalists and angel investors actively supporting different asset and technology classes. Within this landscape, UTH serves as a focal point, providing essential guidance and exposure for founders. The comprehensive support system ensures that entrepreneurs can progress effectively, capitalizing on the city’s robust ecosystem.

As part of their ongoing efforts, Inclusive Mobility is currently working on launching services at key locations such as Helsinki-Vantaa Airport and the Port of Helsinki. Collaborations with institutions like Aalto University, Helsinki University, and Metropolia are also on the horizon, aimed at further developing their technology and expanding their reach.

Inclusive Mobility envisions a future where accessible transport solutions are as ubiquitous as food delivery services, driving social change and bridging divides. With Urban Tech Helsinki’s backing, they are on track to make this vision a reality, offering PRMs a dignified, seamless way to travel independently.

For more information, visit Inclusive Mobility’s website.

This article was created in collaboration with Urban Tech Helsinki project.

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

1. SDGs Addressed or Connected to the Issues Highlighted in the Article:

• SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities
• SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
• SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production

2. Specific Targets Under Those SDGs Based on the Article’s Content:

• SDG 10.2: By 2030, empower and promote the social, economic, and political inclusion of all, irrespective of age, sex, disability, race, ethnicity, origin, religion, or economic or other status.
• SDG 11.2: By 2030, provide access to safe, affordable, accessible, and sustainable transport systems for all, improving road safety, notably by expanding public transport, with special attention to the needs of those in vulnerable situations, women, children, persons with disabilities, and older persons.
• SDG 12.5: By 2030, substantially reduce waste generation through prevention, reduction, recycling, and reuse.

3. Indicators Mentioned or Implied in the Article:

• Availability of accessible, reliable solutions for people with reduced mobility (PRMs)
• Number of electric assistive devices rented or borrowed through the platform
• Number of short-term rentals and peer-to-peer lending transactions
• Automated audit recording for employee welfare benefits
• Number of devices refurbished and repurposed

Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Source: arcticstartup.com