The programme is looking for 12 scalable, incorporated companies with high growth potential to apply. The program is open to both Scottish and international companies to join, and will be accepting applications until 15 May. 

Successful applicants will join the accelerator which runs for six months starting mid-September. The startups will have the chance to scale their business through workshops and mentors, as well as receive generous financial support, and engage with potential investors. Some alumni of the accelerator have gone on to secure over £30 million in external investment. 

The programme will take place at the University of Edinburgh, the UK’s second highest ranked institution for data science according to the QS world university rankings. The programme will be both in person and digitally and delivered on behalf of the University’s data-driven innovation hubs, as well as Bayes Centre, and Edinburgh Innovations.  

At the launch of this year’s accelerator, University of Edinburgh vice-principal of research and enterprise Kim Graham said: “Along with the cross-sector academic and strategic advice on offer, the programme helps AI innovators build their global networks and provides an ideal window to external investment opportunities to help them scale their businesses.

“The AI Accelerator delivers real economic impact through its support of both Scottish-based businesses as well as international companies which may be looking to locate their operations here. We look forward to attracting the best applications from across the globe, reflecting the University of Edinburgh’s 60 years of leading the world in AI research.”

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Since launching in 2018, the programme has supported companies such as Edinburgh’s cancer research business Carcinotech, climate monitoring solution provider Space Intelligence, and UK’s leading crypto wallet payment platform Zumo. 

“The AI Accelerator programme has been transformational for me personally and for the business,” said Stuart Hannah, co-founder and CEO of MicroplateDx, a participant in last year’s AI Accelerator. “We have been involved in a number of other accelerators in the past, but the University of Edinburgh programme has proven unique in terms of its impact connecting us with key investors, and providing us with clear guidance and mentoring to help develop the business.”