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.

Applications are closed for Cohort 10.0

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