Agentic AI involves AI systems that take initiative, co-creating ideas, automating tasks, collaborating with humans, and coordinating complex systems to enhance the design process.

The competition seeks solutions that can deliver measurable impact across the key sectors, from accelerating drug development and optimising manufacturing processes to enabling generative design in creative production.

UK-registered businesses of any size are invited to present groundbreaking solutions to sector challenges and compete for a share of a £1M prize pot. Winners will receive expert mentorship from The High Value Manufacturing Catapult, Digital Catapult, and leading figures in AI and their respective sectors.

Up to four cash prizes will be awarded to the top-performing solutions:

• Advanced Manufacturing: First prize £250,000
• Health & Life Sciences: First prize £250,000
• Creative Industries: First prize £250,000
• A further £250,000 will be awarded to the best overall solution across all three sectors

The Prize offers innovators a unique opportunity to gain national recognition, build valuable connections, and help shape the future of agentic AI. Through active participation, entrants will reinforce the UK’s reputation as a trailblazer in AI-driven design and technology.

Expressions of interest are open until Wednesday 19th November, and an online briefing event is taking place for potential applicants on Thursday 23rd October. Both can be accessed via the Innovate UK website.

Tom Adeyoola, Chief Executive Officer of Innovate UK, said: “Innovate UK's vision is for a UK where breakthrough ideas become industry giants. This means being bolder in our aspirations and more targeted in our approach. The Pioneers Prize embodies that mission by removing barriers, providing clear routes to scale, and backing businesses ready to lead rather than follow.”

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