IUK Announces Grants for AI Projects Addressing Business Challenges

Innovate UK has launched a competition to fund artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) projects addressing industry-specific challenges in agriculture, construction, creative industries and transport. The competition is part of the BridgeAI Innovation Exchange, which aims to increase AI adoption in high-growth sectors with lower AI maturity.

Up to £350,000 has been allocated to support proof-of-concept AI and ML projects within four organisations: The Bicycle Association, United Living, Sustrans and Lichfields.

Projects will focus on areas such as market intelligence for cycling businesses, automation in site assessments, AI-driven engagement for active travel and streamlining planning applications. Funding requests must be between £25,000 and £50,000 per project.

Eligible applicants must be UK-registered small or medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) or research organisations applying as single entities. Subcontractors may be included and can be based anywhere in the UK, provided they are selected through the applicant’s usual procurement process.

Funded projects must demonstrate productivity improvements, ethical AI considerations and structured planning. The initiative encourages collaboration between AI developers and industry leaders to enhance efficiency, competitiveness and sustainability.