HMGCC Co-Creation: Smart glasses for mapping

Summary Eligibility Dates How to apply Supporting information

Overview

Can you help defence and security use smart glasses to aid reconnaissance missions?

This is the latest 12-week, funded challenge launched by HMGCC Co-Creation – now open for applications.

The aim of this project is to develop an edge device that can process video and audio and has the ability to stitch together and create high fidelity 3D maps from off-the-shelf smart glasses.

Participants should deliver a demonstrable proof of concept to a minimum Technology Readiness Level 4.

HMGCC Co-Creation will provide funding for time, materials, overheads and other indirect expenses for successful applicants.

Technology themes Applied research, artificial intelligence, computer vision, data science and engineering, information technology, machine learning, modelling and simulation, software development, wearable technologies.

Key information

Total budget (ex VAT), up to: £60,000 Project duration: 12 weeks Competition opens: Monday 12 October 2026 Competition closes: Thursday 12 November 2026

Context of the challenge

Smart glasses are now commercially available, offering features including integrated cameras, AI voice assistance and heads-up displays.

For security and defence operators, smart glasses could provide a first-person reconnaissance view of a terrain but, for this capability to be used, government would need a robust, secure, and automated software chain able to convert raw sensor streams into 3D geospatial intelligence.

Who should apply?

This challenge is open to sole innovators, industry, academic and research organisations of all types and sizes. There is no requirement for security clearances.

Solution providers or direct collaboration from countries listed by the UK government under trade sanctions and/or arms embargoes, are not eligible for HMGCC Co-Creation challenges.

12 Oct

Competition opens

29 Oct

Clarifying questions deadline

5 Nov

Clarifying questions published

12 Nov

Competition closes

19 Nov

Applicants notified

25 Nov

Pitch day

30 Nov

Pitch day outcome

1 Dec

Commercial onboarding begins*

Jan 2027

Target project kick-off

*Please note, the successful solution provider will be expected to have availability for a 1-hour onboarding call via MS Teams on the date and time specified to begin the onboarding/contractual process.

Application process

Applications close 12 November 2026

Please find details on how to apply, as well as more information about the challenge, here.

Apply now

Supporting documents

Full challenge information

Terms and conditions