Transformative sustainable AI technologies
UK Research and Innovation funds high-risk research into transformative, sustainable AI technologies that dramatically reduce environmental impact and advance next-generation AI systems.
Funder: UK Research and Innovation
Due Dates: November 10, 2026 (Full application deadline)
Funding Amounts: Up to £602,500 (80% FEC) per project, max 24 months; total fund £12,050,000.
Summary: Supports high-risk, high-reward research to develop transformative, sustainable AI technologies that reduce environmental impact and advance future AI systems.
Key Information: Projects must start February 1, 2027; distributed peer review is mandatory for applicants.
Description
This grant opportunity funds speculative, high-risk research projects aiming for breakthroughs in the sustainability of future artificial intelligence (AI) systems. UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) seeks to catalyze the development of novel AI technologies, methods, and tools across the AI value chain—focusing on reducing environmental impact, enhancing efficiency, and ensuring AI systems are sustainable by design. The initiative encourages disruptive approaches that go beyond incremental improvements, including energy-efficient algorithms, innovative hardware/software co-design, and systems optimized for resource-constrained environments. The ultimate goal is to position the UK as a global leader in sustainable AI and contribute to national strategic priorities for economic growth and environmental responsibility.
