Tyco announced that it has opened innovation centers aimed at solving broader customer problems while championing startups in security, fire protection and smart connected technologies.

The first centers are operating in Silicon Valley and Tel Aviv, with more centers planned for other locations later this year.

The commercialization program at the Tyco Innovation Tel Aviv center provides entrepreneurs with an accelerated go-to-market platform, an opportunity to collaborate with Tyco's business units and access to the company's vast network of installed systems and devices, spanning diverse markets and customers in over 200 countries.

Tyco is sponsoring startups with innovative applications in the areas of smart cities, buildings and homes, retail, and commercial properties.

Specific areas of interest include Internet of Things; retail/store solutions; sensing and detection; image processing, tracking and location; machine intelligence; and Big Data.

The company has also launched Tyco Innovation Garage facilities in Silicon Valley and Tel Aviv. These centers team Tyco's internal R&D capabilities with partners and stakeholders inside and outside the company to focus on solving complex customer problems by applying advanced technologies and sensor-based analytics.