Explore commercialisation pathways for your research ideas
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Applications for next cohort (2026) now open
Hear the latest from our programme team
The Data Driven Innovation (DDI) Fellows Programme supports academic and professional services staff at the University of Edinburgh to explore and develop spin-out or startup ventures. Delivered by the Bayes Centre and Edinburgh Futures Institute, the programme blends expert support, with funding and targeted learning that will help you take your innovation from concept to commercialisation.
If you have an idea that engages with data and embraces interdisciplinarity, we’d love to hear from you.
On completion, Fellows may have the opportunity to progress into other programmes such as Venture Builder Incubator and AI Accelerator.
This programme runs from November 2025 until May 2026 and combines online learning and monthly in-person sessions with tailored support that will equip you with the tools, knowledge and network to create a minimum viable product and continue your commercialisation endeavours.
This opportunity is open to all University of Edinburgh staff on open-ended contracts, including both academic and professional services colleagues. We particularly encourage applications from women and Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic staff, who are underrepresented in this space.
The programme of in-person sessions will, as much as possible, take place over lunchtimes to make the opportunity as accessible as possible around the existing work commitments of successful Fellows.
We’re looking for individuals with a strong innovation concept covering any and all industry sectors, a desire to explore commercialisation, and a willingness to engage with the process of building a venture.
Data Driven Innovation Fellows
