More information on how to and who can apply and upcoming application dates. Programme Information Q: Will the programme develop AI for applicants? No. You will definitely be introduced to people and opportunities which could help develop your AI, but this is a more holistic business development programme to scale your business. with specific activities for AI driven companies (eg. MLOps, AI regulatory landscape). Q: What is the format of programme activities? The programme adopts a hybrid format, combining online sessions with an in-person monthly two day events in Edinburgh. Activity includes workshops, 1-1 mentorship, and informal cohort sessions. Additionally, participants will make two separate trips to London. Q: What is the time commitment required from participants? Approximately 5-6 hours per week, mainly on Wednesdays and Thursdays, with breaks over Christmas and several rest weeks. Q: How does the free office space work and what are other benefits of accessing the Bayes Centre? Free access to hot desks and meeting spaces at the Bayes Centre during the programme and optionally the following six months. Includes access to community events to facilitate networking with the AI and data science tech ecosystem at Bayes. Q: What role do partners and supporters play in the programme? Partners and supporters provide ad-hoc training, mentorship and connections, and participate in various capacities such as sessions and 1-1 engagements. Eligibility & Application Process Q: What sector and technology focus is required for applicants? No specific sector focus. You should be developing or training your own AI and your proposition should be based on AI. Purpose driven applicants are particularly encouraged. Q: What are the company size and stage requirements for applicants? Preferred applicants are scale-ups, incorporated, ideally post-revenue with some funding, and fully dedicated founders, but high potential pre-revenue companies may also apply. We are looking for well established startups that are ready to scale. You should have: A product close to product market fit Revenues of £50k OR other funding of £250k in past two years Potential to reach £1m revenue in next 3 years Q: Are international applicants allowed? Yes, international companies who are interested in engaging with Scotland are welcome to apply. Workshops and meetings will be managed around UK time and some sessions must be attended in person (this will be two consecutive days per month in Edinburgh and two trips to London) Q: What does the selection process involve? Applicants need to fill out a basic online form to check if they meet the necessary criteria. If they qualify, they will be asked to complete a more detailed form. Those shortlisted will be invited to present their pitch to a selection panel in June and may also have a follow-up interview. Final results will be announced by the end of June. Q: Can the application be saved and completed later? Yes. Anticipate the application to take between 60-90 minutes to complete. Q: How many companies will be accepted into the programme? 10-14 companies Do I need to have an existing association with the University of Edinburgh? No. Key dates: Online information session – Tursday 10th April 16:00-16:30 In person information session (Bayes Centre) - Monday 28th April 16:00-16:45 Pre-qualification closes – 12 noon on Wed 14th May Application closes – 9AM on Monday 19th May Selection panels – 11th, 12th or 17th June (online)Decisions communicated to applicants – end June Programme Start Date – 17th September (in Edinburgh) This article was published on 2024-09-30
