The UK Government has announced a significant investment of £32 million to support nearly 100 artificial intelligence (AI) projects aimed at improving productivity and enhancing public services across the country.
This funding is part of a broader initiative to drive economic growth and deliver tangible benefits to the public through the use of cutting-edge technology.
The projects receiving funding are diverse, spanning sectors such as construction, healthcare, transportation, and logistics. Each project aims to address specific challenges, from improving safety on construction sites to reducing railway delays and optimising NHS prescription deliveries.
One of the highlighted projects is led by V-Lab Ltd, which has been awarded £165,006 to develop AI-powered software for training workers in the construction sector. The system uses immersive, scenario-based virtual simulations of real construction sites to help workers learn risk assessments and safety protocols efficiently. This initiative is expected to contribute to a more skilled workforce capable of supporting the UK’s infrastructure needs.
Transforming NHS Prescription Deliveries and Railway Maintenance
Another key project involves Nottingham-based Anteam, which will collaborate with retailers and the NHS to enhance the efficiency of prescription deliveries. This initiative will leverage AI algorithms to better match delivery needs with existing journeys, thereby improving delivery times, reducing carbon emissions, and providing a better experience for patients.
Hack Partners is leading a project that promises to revolutionise how the UK’s railway network is maintained and inspected. Their work involves developing an autonomous system capable of monitoring and identifying defects in rail infrastructure. This advancement is expected to significantly boost the safety and efficiency of railway operations, ultimately leading to a better service for rail users.
AI in Logistics and Retail
The funding also targets ‘high growth’ industries, with AI playing a central role in driving productivity and efficiency. Cambridge-based Monumo, for instance, is part of a team awarded £750,152 to enhance the design of electric vehicle motors using a 3D Generative-AI Tool. This technology is anticipated to improve sustainability in sectors such as commercial transportation, flight, and power generation.
In the logistics sector, Robok Limited is developing the SeeGul AI tool, designed to monitor efficiency, improve resourcing, and identify bottlenecks in warehouses and storage facilities. Meanwhile, Kelp Technologies is collaborating with fashion retailers Depop and Selfridges to create real-time pricing and market trend analysis tools for the second-hand apparel market. These innovations are expected to save time and money for retailers while supporting the growth of the second-hand clothing market, thereby reducing waste and greenhouse gas emissions.
AI’s Role in Economic Growth
Dr Kedar Pandya, UKRI Technology Missions Fund Senior Responsible Owner and Executive Director of Cross-Council Programmes at UKRI’s Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council, commented on the impact of these projects: “These projects will drive AI innovation and economic growth in a diverse range of high-growth industry sectors in all nations of the UK.”
This latest round of funding underscores the government’s commitment to placing AI at the heart of its economic strategy. The projects are supported through the UKRI Technology Missions Fund and delivered via the Innovate UK BridgeAI programme, which also provides access to training, expert AI advice, and opportunities for collaboration between businesses and developers.
