Launch of AI Futures Grants: Empowering Innovation Through International Talent

Launch of AI Futures Grants: Empowering Innovation Through International Talent

The Department for Business and Trade has announced the upcoming launch of the AI Futures Grants program, set to open its doors for applications on February 19th. This initiative aims to bolster the UK’s standing in artificial intelligence (AI) research and development by facilitating the relocation of exceptional early to mid-career AI researchers and engineers to British universities, research institutes, and Small and Medium Sized Enterprises (SMEs).

Key details of the AI Futures Grants scheme include:

1. Application Process: Eligible organizations can apply through the Cabinet Office platform Find a Grant, with the application window open for four weeks until March 18th.
2. Eligibility: The program is open to universities, research institutes, and SMEs. It supports relocation costs for international hires and their dependents.
3. Flexibility: Feedback from stakeholders has shaped the program’s design, resulting in measures such as maintaining a broad definition of eligible relocation costs and allowing applicants to bid for less than £10,000 per hire.
4. Guidance: Clear guidelines have been provided to streamline the application process. Notably, organizations are no longer required to explain their involvement in global talent competitions.
5. Criteria: Grants cannot be used to recruit undergraduate, master’s, or PhD students.

The AI Futures Grants program represents a strategic investment in fostering innovation and strengthening the UK’s AI ecosystem. By attracting top-tier talent from around the world, it promises to drive forward groundbreaking research and technological advancements in the field of artificial intelligence. As the application window approaches, eligible organizations are encouraged to seize this opportunity to access funding and contribute to the UK’s leadership in AI innovation.