Applications open for University of Edinburgh AI enhanced Accelerator Programme 2025

An initiative which helps innovative Artificial Intelligence (AI)-focused scaleup companies to maximise their full commercial potential is now open for 2025 applications.

Article Source: University of Edinburgh
Last Updated: 22 April 2025 13:17

Edinburgh ranked among the top AI-powered cities of the future[1] invites scaleups from tech-businesses across the globe to apply

The 6-month programme, delivered by the University of Edinburgh, will widen its selection process this year, to encourage a broader range of scaleups from tech-focused companies to benefit from a package of support aimed at helping transform their businesses into world-leading companies.

The AI Accelerator has a strong track record of supporting innovative businesses and, this year, will be joined by Daniel Winterstein as Technical Entrepreneur in Residence. A PhD graduate at the University of Edinburgh and co-founder of ethical ad-tech company Good-Loop, Daniel will offer technical guidance and mentorship as part of the Accelerator’s wider support network.

Daniel Winterstein comments, “As the only UK city to be named an AI leader, it’s fair to say that we have a real opportunity here and I am so excited to meet the cohort. Access to capital and talent are their biggest barriers to growth in the UK and we want to support them to overcome these challenges with our programme so that as a city and a university we can continue to lead the way with AI.”

The programme, delivered by the University of Edinburgh’s world-leading Innovation Hub for Data Science and Artificial Intelligence, the Bayes Centre[2] in collaboration with Edinburgh Innovations[3], will feature monthly in-person workshops complemented by additional activities delivered online and two trips to London.

The AI Accelerator gives companies a platform to shape their investment strategies and connect with potential investors. Participants also take part in expert-led workshops covering pricing, leadership, and scaling — all designed to drive commercial growth.

The University of Edinburgh is home to the largest centres for computing science and informatics in Europe. Through access to its academic expertise and links into the Data- Driven Innovation hubs, AI Accelerator participants will also benefit from collaboration and business exposure opportunities.

Among last year’s participants were Chirrup, a business that helps landholders to thrive with biodiversity, by providing sensors and reporting tools that show the level of natural capital they already have. Gaining clarity on their "bullseye target" at the AI accelerator enabled Chirrup to concentrate their efforts on food processor intermediaries. This focused approach facilitated the development of marketing and sales tools specifically crafted to address these clients' unique challenges and maximise value.

Dr. Murray Collins, CEO, Space Intelligence who participated in the 2021 cohort commented, “The programme introduced us to the different skills needed to grow a business over and above our academic and technical ability. As a result, we have grown significantly, including raising investment at seed and Series A stages from with investment from global name entities like Equinor and Intercontinental Exchange (NYSE: ICE), owners of the New York Stock Exchange.

“Since the Accelerator, we’ve publicly worked with major clients, such as Shell and Apple, and won several funding competitions that have helped to solidify our position as a leading player in this space.”

Katy Guthrie, Programme Manager of the AI Accelerator, said: “AI is having a profoundly positive impact on companies and their growth across the globe and through our programme we are helping transform innovative start-ups into world-leading companies and supporting wider economic growth. Space Intelligence is just one example of the success that can be achieved, and we are inviting startups and scaleups from tech-businesses across the globe to join us.

“We’ve also decided to open our selection process to encourage a broader range of businesses to benefit, and we’ll be refocusing on scaleups with products that are ready to make an impact.”

Pre-qualifications close at 12 noon on Wed 14th May, and the deadline for applications for the new AI Accelerator programme is 9AM on Monday 19th May. The programme will run for six months from 17th September (in Edinburgh).

Enquiries should be sent directly to: aia@ei.ed.ac.uk

Got a story to share? Send us an email at hello[@]whatsonnetwork.co.uk

Latest Edinburgh News

Charity calls for urgent path funding to invest in safe, local routes

Edinburgh locals are being encouraged to walk more as charity calls for urgent path funding to invest in safe, local routes.

Edinburgh Open Workshop Unveils An Exciting New Course Line Up for 2026

Edinburgh Open Workshop unveils an expanded range of hands-on workshops in woodworking, welding, DIY, mixed media, and two newly developed laser-cutting workshops.

Edinburgh locals encouraged to embrace the season of giving

Edinburgh locals are encouraged to embrace the season of giving with the launch of The Leith Collective’s Re-Gifting Tree and Christmas Tree Exchange projects.

Edinburgh International Film Festival announces dates and submission details for 2026

The revitalised Edinburgh International Film Festival (EIFF) has announced today that its 79th edition will run from 13 - 19 August 2026.

The Doddie Weir match ball delivery is voted Greatest Murrayfield Moment

Doddie Weir’s emotional match ball delivery at Murrayfield in 2017 has been voted the greatest moment in the stadium’s 100-year history, after thousands of fans took part in a nationwide poll.

Forth Awards celebrates Amy Macdonald and Wet Wet Wet alongside local heroes

The Forth Awards, presented by Livingston Designer Outlet, crowned the very best of Edinburgh and the East last night at a star-studded award ceremony.

King Pins, state of the art bowling and activity venue, is set to open its second Scottish site in Edinburgh

King Pins is announcing a new bowling and activity venue opening in Waverley Bridge in Edinburgh in early 2026.

Edinburgh locals get discount at Hard Rock Cafe this November

This November, locals with an EH postcode can enjoy 25% off food and drinks until 5pm, Sunday to Friday, plus 25% off in retail at Hard Rock Cafe Edinburgh.

Highlight paintings from Buckingham Palace go on display in Scotland

Portraits by Frans Hals, Titian and Parmigianino are among eight of the finest paintings from Buckingham Palace to go on display at the Palace of Holyroodhouse from today.

Roti King crowns Edinburgh with its first Scottish restaurant

Roti King is making its first move outside England, heading north to the foodie capital of Edinburgh.

Luxury kitchen brand unveils fully refurbished Edinburgh showroom

Harvey Jones, specialists in hand-crafted beautifully designed kitchens and luxury furniture for the home, has opened its doors to its newly refurbed Edinburgh showroom.

Much loved classic Scottish play, The Steamie, is set to return to venues in 2026

The Steamie has been scrubbed up ahead of making a return to theatres across the country next year as part of an exciting new chapter in its long-standing story in the theatre landscape.

Medea to tour Scotland in 2026

Bard in the Botanics will be launching their 25th Anniversary year with a Scotland-wide tour of their award-winning version of Medea, by Kathy McKean (after Euripides).

Former courthouse and jail completes multi million pound transformation

Edinburgh-based Code The Court has unveiled a new attic floor of signature boutique hotel rooms, marking a major next step for the landmark venue overlooking the historic Parliament Square.

18 million success for Lost Shore just one year after opening

Lost Shore Surf Resort has firmly established itself as one of Scotland’s most exciting tourism success stories, already generating an £18 million boost to the Scottish economy.

The Ivy on the Square unveils festive set menu for 2025

From traditional Turkey Ballotine to a tangy Tamarind Beetroot & Endive Salad the festive set menu brings the best of festive flavours, reimagined by The Ivy across two or three courses.

The National Galleries of Scotland has acquired The American Dream by Sir Grayson Perry

The National Galleries of Scotland has acquired Sir Grayson Perry’s The American Dream for the people of Scotland.

Christmas Magic Returns to The Royal Yacht Britannia in Edinburgh

Step aboard and unwrap the magic of The Royal Yacht Britannia in Edinburgh's Port of Leith this Christmas.

Imagine Theatre prepares for an exciting season of pantomimes across Scotland

Imagine Theatre proudly presents a spectacular lineup of family pantomimes across Scotland bursting with laughter, music, sparkle, and dance starring some of Scotland's best-loved entertainers!

Tesco customers in Edinburgh can spread festive joy by gifting toys this Christmas

From today until the 15th of December, Tesco’s Edinburgh Hermiston Gate Superstore is holding a collection for new and unwrapped toys for the Salvation Army’s Toy Appeal.

Virgin Hotels Edinburgh Black Friday Offers

From 5 star stays to chef’s table feasts and afternoon tea with bubbles, Virgin Hotels Edinburgh offers unforgettable experiences at unbeatable value this Black Friday.

Step into the magic at Dobbies Garden Centres

Dobbies Garden Centres has a fantastic line up of Santa’s Grotto and Quiet Grotto experiences, with an exciting North Pole adventure inspired theme, running from 23rd November - 24th December.

Locals urged to get interactive on World Kindness Day

To mark World Kindness Day, the team at Volunteer Centre East Lothian (VCEL) is encouraging more people to show compassion, unity and kindness to others through voluntary work.

Scottish Ensemble announce projects for Spring and Summer 2026

Scottish Ensemble, a pioneering collective of musicians championing music for strings, announces its series of events for Spring/Summer 2026.

Free community energy advice event taking place tomorrow in Edinburgh

Free face-to-face energy support comes to Edinburgh as nearly a third still don’t seek help when struggling with bills.

Wingstop UKI opens first restaurant in Livingston

Monday 10th November : Wingstop UKI, the restaurant brand that doesn’t play when it comes to flavour, today opens its first site in Livingston.

Flight Club Launches BRAND NEW Game Inspired by a Party Classic

This week, Flight Club, the lively cocktail and Social Darts bar, is launching a brand-new game, available to play in all venues for the first time on Friday, 14th November.

Scottish and international traders make Edinburghs Christmas Market sparkle with festive magic

The countdown to this year’s Edinburgh’s Christmas attractions has begun, with the much-loved Christmas Markets in East Princes Street Gardens opening this Saturday 15 November.

Aldi Scotland is turning up the Christmas cheer with its first ever festive Supermarket Sweep

Aldi Scotland is giving one lucky customer the chance to take part in a seasonal edition of its popular shopping challenge, all while raising vital funds for Children's Hospices Across Scotland.