AI Champions: Frontier AI Phase 1

The AI Champions: Frontier AI Phase 1 competition is a funding opportunity delivered by Innovate UK, part of UK Research and Innovation (UKRI). It supports early-stage, high-risk AI innovation projects led by UK SMEs, focused on developing novel artificial intelligence capabilities with strong commercial potential.

The competition funds feasibility studies that explore cutting-edge approaches in frontier AI, including advances in model design, system architecture and learning methods. Projects must align with key strategic themes such as health and life sciences, advanced materials, national security or fundamental AI capabilities.

As the first stage of a broader innovation pipeline, this programme aims to help emerging AI companies validate new ideas, de-risk future investment and position themselves for scale-up, strengthening the UK’s global leadership in advanced AI technologies.