The Uber Transit Innovation Fund: accelerating the future of mobility
Uber Transit today announced the launch of its $1 Million Innovation Fund, alongside a nationwide Call for Projects to help public transit agencies, municipalities, and regional authorities pilot on-demand mobility solutions.
The initiative is designed to remove financial barriers, enabling agencies to test new service models, reduce operating costs, and improve rider experience.
Through the fund, Uber Transit will award up to $50,000 in funding to 20 forward-thinking agencies across the United States to launch real-world pilot programs.
"The reality is, the math of public transit is not getting easier," said Chris Margaronis, Head of Uber Transit. "When a traditional paratransit trip costs $100, that’s not just a cost problem; it’s a service problem. Every excess dollar spent on one trip is a dollar an agency cannot use to serve another rider. We are launching this fund to prove that by using flexible supply and modern tools, we can safely deliver that same trip for $20. That translates to five times the mobility for the same budget."
"This fund offers agencies a responsible way to test better solutions without putting their core budgets at risk. We are providing a platform for small pilots, real data, shared investment, and measurable outcomes. Riders don’t experience innovation as risk, they experience it as freedom."
- Chris Margaronis, Head of Uber Transit
Real-world impact
The program is structured to minimize risk for agencies, with no upfront fees, no minimum guarantees, and no capital investment required. Agencies only pay for trips delivered, ensuring alignment between cost and performance.
How to apply
Agencies are invited to submit proposals through the Call for Projects here.
Applications are due by June 30, 2026 and will be reviewed on a rolling basis until funds are fully allocated.