A launchpad for researchers from across the UK to create innovative AI startups
University labs are abundant with technology that has the potential to bring immense benefit for people, society and the nation.
AIR supports the startup future founders to turn their research into a startup with the potential to change the world.
In partnership with
AIR: the startup accelerator for AI researchers
AIR is a launchpad for innovative AI startups growing out of university research
Delivered by startup and AI experts from Future Worlds and UCL-CDI, AIR is a six-month programme that will take amibitious researchers from lab to launch.
Explore the commercial potential of your tech
Grow with 1:1 mentoring and group training
Fully funded - we don't charge or take equity
AIR UK Networking
AI from lab to launch
For people across the UK who are building, researching, and optimistic about AI
AIR27 Accelerator
Ready to accelerate your technology and build a scaleable AI startup?
Applications open in October for the next AIR Cohort, where the most ambitious future startup founders from universities across the UK will benefit from focused support to build their commercial, tech, and founder skillsets. All at no cost to you, with no equity taken in your startup either.
October 2026
Applications open, with the option to join a one-day startup bootcamp before you apply.
December 2026
Interviews, decisions and invitations to join the Cohort - or access other startup support options.
January - June 2027
The Cohort programme takes you from lab to launch in six months, culminating in an investor Demo Day in June.
“Future Worlds' expertise, support, and opportunities helped me to transform my PhD research into a thriving startup.Today, ArchAI is combining cutting-edge AI with environmental expertise to develop tools that reveal the past's hidden stories. I highly recommend working with Future Worlds to explore your research's commercial potential.”
Dr Iris Kramer
CEO & Founder, ArchAI
Streaming now: The Age of AI
We’re told we’re living in the Age of AI. This series asks what that really means and what matters beyond the hype.
Join tech journalist Lara Lewington and Ben Clark from Future Worlds as they look past the noise to explore the ideas, decisions and technologies shaping how we live, work and think.
From overlooked stories to the researchers, founders and systems building the future, this is where the biggest questions about AI are tackled by the people closest to the answers.
Available to watch and listen on YouTube and all major podcast platforms.
