In collaboration with NVIDIA and GitHub, both leaders in the tech industry, Microsoft’s GenAI Accelerator promises unique support and resources to AI-focused companies seeking to develop, promote, and scale their generative AI products.

Scheduled to run from January to early March 2025, the programme targets UK-based AI startups with seed funding, providing the tools necessary to elevate their products to a wider market.

Microsoft aims to work with startups whose AI innovations could positively impact people’s lives, stimulate job creation, and drive significant economic growth.

Designed in a hybrid format, with online and in-person components, the Accelerator allows participation from startups across the UK, not just those concentrated in London and the South East, fostering a diverse mix of talent from various regions.

Darren Hardman, CEO, Microsoft UK, said: “By supporting local AI startups and providing them with the resources they need to succeed, Microsoft and our partners are helping to build a vibrant and sustainable AI community in the UK and create the tech powerhouses of tomorrow.

“These fast-growing companies will create jobs, boost UK economic growth, and create products that make a positive impact on people’s lives.

”I’m excited to see what innovations emerge from this unique initiative.”

Innovation centre

The Accelerator will conclude with a Demo Day, giving participants a prime platform to present their innovations to top-tier venture capitalists and private equity firms.

Microsoft has crafted the Accelerator to tackle a recurring challenge: while the UK thrives as an AI innovation hub, many startups struggle to find the resources needed to scale and reach their full potential.

The GenAI Accelerator addresses this gap by offering end-to-end support to selected startups, including technical expertise, marketing strategy guidance, and access to a network of influential investors.

Each participant will benefit from personalised support from Microsoft’s AI ‘Black Belt’ team – specialists in AI and machine learning – as well as workshops and guidance from partners NVIDIA and GitHub.

“NVIDIA will support Microsoft GenAI Accelerator participants through the NVIDIA Inception programme for cutting-edge startups,” said Serge Palaric, NVIDIA’s Vice-President Hyperscaler Alliance, EMEA.

“This collaboration will provide startups with access to NVIDIA Deep Learning Institute (DLI) training sessions and a network of experts.

“By using NVIDIA’s accelerated computing platform, startups will be able to accelerate their AI development and enhance performance.”

Further information

If you’re interested in applying to Microsoft’s GenAI Accelerator and gaining access to world-class technology, mentorship, and funding?

Here’s what you need to know.

• Launch Date: 4 November 2024
• Application Period: 4 November 2024 to 22 November 2024
• Shortlisting: week commencing 9 December 2024
• Programme Duration: 22 January 2025 to 5 March 2025
• Demo Day: Early March 2025
• Who can apply: UK-based AI startups and scaleups which already have a product in the market and are innovating across various sectors, including fintech, medtech, and greentech.

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