How would you describe Locky to someone in two or three sentences?
We created Locky to allow people to park their bikes in the city without the risk of theft. We have developed a solar-powered bike rack that doesn't require a lock and is activated through an app. Additionally, your bike is insured, and our racks are equipped with an alarm that only responds to specific types of contact, such as a grinder.
How did you come up with the idea of creating Locky?
The idea for Locky came to us one evening at Martin's place. We wanted to start an entrepreneurial project together; we've known each other since childhood and always felt we could achieve great things together. I often visited Martin in Br
ussels, and fearing my bike would get stolen, I always brought it up to his living room. One day, Martin challenged me to find a solution to bike theft, and that's where it all began.

Solar-powered bike parking is proposed by Locky in Brussels, and soon in other cities in Belgium.
Why did Locky decide to take part in the Smart Pedal Pitch 2024?
We decided to join the Smart Pedal Pitch 2024 to showcase our innovative solution on a larger platform and gain valuable exposure. The competition was a fantastic opportunity to connect with industry leaders, potential partners, and investors who share our vision of promoting safe cycling infrastructure.
What was the best aspect of your participation in the competition and at Velo-city? How was it to present your innovation in t’Kuipke velodrome?
The best part of participating in the competition and at Velo-city was the networking opportunities and the feedback we received from industry experts. Presenting our innovation in the iconic t’Kuipke velodrome was thrilling and reinforced our belief in the potential impact of our solution on urban cycling culture.
Locky won the chance to undertake a pilot project with the host city of Ghent and was invited to become a member of Cycling Industries Europe. How is that shaping up?
Our collaboration with the city of Ghent is just starting, but the support and enthusiasm from the local government have been amazing. Becoming a member of Cycling Industries Europe has opened up new avenues for collaboration and knowledge exchange, helping us refine our product and expand our reach.
Would you recommend applying to the Smart Pedal Pitch to other companies? What types of organisations do you think stand to benefit the most from their participation?
Absolutely, we recommend applying to the Smart Pedal Pitch. Startups and organisations focused on innovative cycling solutions, urban mobility, and sustainable transportation stand to benefit the most. The competition provides a unique platform to gain visibility, connect with key stakeholders, and accelerate growth.
Shady Cantarella, CEO of Locky, presented their innovation at Velo-city 2024 Ghent in the Smart Pedal Pitch finals.
Will we be seeing you at Velo-city 2025 Gdansk?
We are definitely planning to attend Velo-city 2025 in Gdansk. It's a wonderful opportunity to showcase our progress, learn from other innovators, and continue to build relationships within the cycling community.
Do you have words of advice for Smart Pedal Pitch next year’s contestants?
For next year’s contestants, we suggest being clear and passionate about your mission. Focus on how your solution addresses a real problem and be ready to demonstrate its impact. Networking and gathering feedback are invaluable, so make the most of the opportunities to connect with others in the industry.
Finally, what are Locky's plans for the future?
We have already deployed 40 secure parking spaces in Brussels and plan to reach 300 spaces by the end of the year. At the same time, we have already responded to other calls for projects abroad and will start discussions with Ghent to organise our pilot project won during the Smart Pedal Pitch 2024. The goal in a few years is to be present in about ten European cities and to be a significant player in the fight against bike theft!
To find out more about Locky,
visit their website.