Essential information

Q: What are the company size and stage requirements for applicants?

You should have: A product close to product market fit, Revenues of £50k OR other funding of £250k in past two years, Potential to reach £1m revenue in next 3 years

Months duration

Hybrid

Online + In-person

5-6

Hours per week

1:1

Dedicated mentorship

AI & Technology

Build scalable, responsible AI

✔️ University Research Access
Connect with cutting-edge AI research across sectors
✔️ AI Ethics & Regulation
Navigate the evolving legal and ethical landscape
✔️ Technical Excellence
MLOps, scalable architecture, robust systems

Network & Community

Access Edinburgh's innovation ecosystem

✔️ Mentor Matching
Industry leaders and experienced professionals
✔️ Innovation Hubs
Roslin, EFI, National Robotarium, Usher
✔️ Showcase Event
Pitch to investors and the Scottish tech ecosystem

Customers & Sales

Build scalable, responsible AI

✔️ Value Proposition
Clarify what makes your product unique
✔️ Market Insight
Competitor analysis and customer needs
✔️ Sales & Growth
Strategies for scaling and internationalisation

Business Operations

Build a solid operational foundation

✔️ Legal & IP
Protect IP and understand data obligations
✔️ Pricing & Negotiation
Master strategies for profitability
✔️ Governance & Branding
Board roles, brand development, best practices

Funding & Finance

Secure investment and manage growth

✔️ Funding Strategies
Innovation grants and investment routes
✔️ Financial Modelling
Unit economics and strategic planning
✔️ Pitch Decks
Investor-ready presentations that convert

People & Leadership

Build and lead high-performing teams

✔️ Leadership Skills
Effectively manage and inspire your team
✔️ Growing a Team
Recruitment, structure and HR processes
✔️ Culture & Wellbeing
High-performing teams and positive environments

Programme information Eligibility & application process Key dates

Key dates

Pre-qualifications opens

12th January 2026

Full applications open

23rd March 2026

Information sessions

Online Information Session: 4:00 PM, 15 April 2026
In-Person Information Session: 4:00 PM, 22 April 2026 (Bayes Centre)

Pre-qualification closes

12:00 PM, 11 May 2026

Application closes

9:00 AM, 19 May 2026

Full application closes

11:59 PM, Sunday, 17 May 2026

Selection panels

Dates in June (online)

Decisions communicated to applicants

End of June 2026

Programme Start Date

September 2026 (in Edinburgh)

Eligibility & application process

What sector and technology focus is required for applicants? 

No specific sector focus. You should be developing or training your own AI and your proposition should be based on AI. Purpose driven applicants are particularly encouraged.

What are the company size and stage requirements for applicants?

Preferred applicants areincorporated companies, ideally post-revenue with some funding and fully dedicated founders.High potential pre-revenue companies may also apply. We are looking for well established startups that are ready to scale. You should have:

A product close to product market fit
Revenues of £50k OR other funding of £250k in past two years
Potential to reach £1m revenue in next 3 years

Are international applicants allowed?

Yes, international companies who are interested in engaging with Scotland are welcome to apply. Workshops and meetings will be managed around UK time and some sessions must be attended in person (this will be two consecutive days per month in Edinburgh and two trips to London).

What does the selection process involve?

Applicants need to fill out a basic online form to check if they meet the necessary criteria. If they qualify, they will be asked to complete a more detailed application form (available from late March).Those shortlisted will be invited to present their pitch to a selection panel in June and may also have a follow-up interview. Final results will be announced by the end of June.

Can the application be saved and completed later?

Yes. Anticipate the application to take between 60-90 minutes to complete.

How many companies will be accepted into the programme?

10-14 companies

Do I need to have an existing association with the University of Edinburgh?

No.

Programme information

How does the free office space work and what are other benefits of accessing the Bayes Centre?

Free access to hot desks and meeting spaces at the Bayes Centre during the programme and optionally the following six months. Includes access to community events to facilitate networking with the AI and data science tech ecosystem at Bayes. 

Will the programme develop AI for applicants?

No. You will definitely be introduced to people and opportunities which could help develop your AI, but this is a more holistic business development programme to scale your business. with specific activities for AI driven companies (eg. MLOps, AI regulatory landscape). 

What is the format of programme activities?

The programme adopts a hybrid format, combining online sessions with an in-person monthly two day event in Edinburgh. Activity includes workshops, 1-1 mentorship, and informal cohort sessions. Additionally, participants will make two separate trips to London. 

What is the time commitment required from participants?

Approximately 5-6 hours per week, mainly on Wednesdays and Thursdays, with breaks over Christmas and several rest weeks. 

What role do partners and supporters play in the programme?

Partners and supporters provide ad-hoc training, mentorship and connections, and participate in various capacities such as sessions and 1-1 engagements. 