AI-focused incubator AIR26 offers resources for innovators to establish groundbreaking AI-driven businesses
The UK is home to several funding bodies that support research across various sectors, including the Arts and Humanities Research Council, Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council, Economic and Social Research Council, Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council, Innovate UK, Medical Research Council, Natural Environment Research Council, Research England, and Science and Technology Facilities Council.
Now, these researchers with AI-based technology startup ideas have the opportunity to assess their commercial potential and receive support to launch their ventures. The AIR26 Bootcamp, a two-day event taking place on the 2nd and 3rd of September 2025, is designed specifically for them.
This immersive event serves as an introduction to key startup principles such as business models, market potential, customers, and technology. The AIR26 Bootcamp is a prerequisite for joining the full six-month AIR26 programme, which supports researchers in commercialising their AI innovations through startups[1].
To be eligible for the AIR26 Bootcamp, the startup or idea must utilise AI, embody responsible AI usage, have at least one UKRI-funded researcher, be linked to UKRI-funded research, and the team must be resident and eligible to work in the UK. The application form for the AIR26 Bootcamp can be found online and will close on 17 August at 23:59.
Key topics covered during the Bootcamp include product-market fit, value proposition, and pitching. The organisers of the AIR26 Bootcamp are the tech startup accelerator at the University of Southampton, Responsible AI UK, and the UCL Centre for Digital Innovation (UCL CDI).
For questions about the AIR26 Bootcamp, contact AIR26 programme manager Dr Alice Iles at [email protected].
[1] More information about the AIR26 programme can be found at air26.org.uk.
- The UK offers funding to researchers in various sectors, including those with AI-based startup ideas.
- The AIR26 Bootcamp, happening on the 2nd and 3rd of September 2025, is geared towards such researchers.
- This two-day event offers insights into business models, market potential, customers, and technology.
- To be eligible for the AIR26 Bootcamp, startups or ideas must utilize AI, prioritize responsible AI usage, have a UKRI-funded researcher, and be linked to UKRI-funded research.
- Successful applicants will have the opportunity to join the full six-month AIR26 programme for startup commercialization.
- Key topics covered during the Bootcamp include product-market fit, value proposition, and pitching.
- The AIR26 Bootcamp is organized by the tech startup accelerator at the University of Southampton, Responsible AI UK, and the UCL Centre for Digital Innovation (UCL CDI).
- For more information or questions, contact Dr Alice Iles at [email protected] or visit air26.org.uk for details about the AIR26 programme.
