Deadline Date: June 10, 2026
The Innovate UK is inviting grant applications to support UK organisations to develop feasibility studies advancing frontier artificial intelligence and foundation model technologies.
The key priorities of this funding competition include advancing frontier AI and machine learning development, supporting the creation of foundation models, enabling feasibility studies for innovative AI solutions, and accelerating UK-led AI capabilities through collaborative research and industry partnerships across strategic sectors.
This funding competition is designed to strengthen the UK’s position in global artificial intelligence development by supporting early-stage research and feasibility studies. It focuses on building strong consortia and encouraging innovation in AI systems that can be applied across multiple industries and national priorities.
The competition aims to advance the development of frontier artificial intelligence, machine learning, and foundation models within the United Kingdom. It is structured in two phases, with the first phase supporting feasibility studies and the second phase enabling larger-scale demonstrator projects delivered by collaborative consortia, subject to business case approval.
The programme supports four key mission areas. These include AI-enabled health and life sciences, where AI is used to improve medicines discovery, healthcare applications, and clinical trials. It also includes advanced materials with AI, focusing on aerospace, net zero technologies, defence materials, and semiconductors. Another mission area is secure AI for national security and defence, aimed at enhancing defence capabilities with AI-driven systems. The final area is fundamental AI, which focuses on advancing foundation model capabilities applicable across multiple sectors.
Eligible organisations must be registered in the UK and carry out all project work within the country, with the intention of exploiting project results domestically. Project costs must fall between £25,000 and £50,000, ensuring a focused scope for feasibility development.
The competition requires that projects begin on the first day of the month following approval, and funding is only released after the Grant Offer Letter is confirmed by Innovate UK. Delays in setup may affect project start dates.
Overall, the Frontier AI Discovery Funding Competition plays a significant role in advancing the UK’s AI ecosystem by supporting early-stage innovation and collaborative research in cutting-edge technologies.
For more information, visit GOV.UK.
