AI Accelerator

Scale your AI venture with Scotland's leading deep tech accelerator

Welcome to the AI Accelerator at the University of Edinburgh

The AI Accelerator is where ambitious AI-driven businesses come to grow. Over six months, you’ll get the support, connections and expertise you need to tackle global challenges and create real-world impact. From AgriTech to FinTech, this is about accelerating high-growth ventures into global success stories.

Scaleup Growth: Helping existing AI-driven companies reach global markets.

Ideation to Startup: Turning academic research into new companies.

£130m

Funding raised since starting the programme

106

Companies supported since 2019

Total scaleups in the 2025 cohort.

What is the AI Accelerator?

The AI Accelerator is a six-month business development programme designed to enhance data-driven scaleups with a strong focus on business skills development, strategic partnerships, access to world-class facilities and valuable introductions to potential investment.

Why join?

Learn from the best: Hands-on workshops and one-to-one mentoring with people who’ve scaled businesses before.
Keep 100% of your equity: Receive an £8k stipend, dedicated support, and introductions to investors.‍
Build your network: Connect with investors, advisers, customers, partners, and future employees.‍
Tap into Edinburgh’s AI scene: Work with world-class researchers and student talent.‍
Make Bayes your base: Enjoy complimentary office space in the heart of Edinburgh’s tech community, yours to use throughout the programme and beyond.‍
Stay supported: Our dedicated team and peer network are with you every step of the way.
London networking: Two London trips including an investor showcase

Find out what to expect from the programme

Who can apply?

Scale-ups, incorporated, ideally post-revenue with some funding and fully dedicated founding teams.
Product close to market fit, revenues of £50k OR funding of £250k in past 2 years
Potential to reach £1m revenue in 3 years.
International applicants welcome; no previous relationship with the University of Edinburgh required.

Learn more about eligibility and our application process