Sovereign AI - Proof of concept competition briefing event

Overview

Innovate UK, part of UK Research and Innovation, will invest a minimum of £1.6 million. This funding is from Innovate UK, part of UK Research and Innovation and is subject to a sufficient number of high quality applications being received.

The aim of this competition is to demonstrate proof of concept of AI technologies with state of the art performance in areas of strategic importance to UK. This will ensure that frontier AI technologies are developed in the UK, safeguarding UK’s future economic growth and security and geo-strategic influence.

About the event

Empower your innovation journey and increase your chance of securing funding by attending our online briefing event. Gain insights into the competition, eligibility, and application procedures.

What to expect

• Explore comprehensive details of the competition for a solid grasp of the process
• Receive valuable guidance to enhance your grant funding prospects
• Connect with the Innovate UK team, engage in an interactive Q&A session, and clarify any uncertainties

Who should attend?

UK registered businesses of any size seeking to develop proof of concept demonstrators of AI technologies with state-of-the-art performance.

Key dates

• Registration date: 11 August 2025
• Online briefing event: 15 August 2025, 11:30 am
  Briefing slides will be available to download from Supporting Information after the event.
• Registration close date: 10 September 2025
• Invite to interview: TBC
• Interview panel: TBC
• Applicants notified: 14 October 2025
• Successful applicant briefing: TBC
• Project start from: 1 January 2026