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Isambard-AI and Dawn AIRR supercomputers: Rapid Access route

Rapid access to AIRR compute for AI product research and development.

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About

The Rapid Access route is aimed at start-ups and small and medium enterprises. It supports early-stage development of artificial intelligence (AI) products prior to market launch.

Each project can access 20,000 graphics processing unit (GPU) hours on the Isambard-AI and Dawn AI Research Resource (AIRR) supercomputers. No funding is available to successful applicants.

Eligible research and develo…

What this grant funds

This route covers feasibility studies, industrial research and experimental development. It is not aimed at large research programmes.

Key facts
CycleiHow often this grant runs — e.g. annually, on a rolling basis, or a one-off call.Rolling
Next deadlineiThe next date applications are due. Rolling means you can apply any time.Rolling
Decision timeiTypical time from the deadline to the funder's decision.—
Project durationiHow long the funded work is expected to run.3 months
Award typeiThe form of funding — grant, equity, loan, tax credit, etc.Grant
Match fundingiThe share of project costs you must cover yourself. 0% = fully funded.—
Funding pooliThe total budget available across all awards in this round.—
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Eligibility criteria

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Last verified: 27 Aug 2026Funder reference: ukri-post-172718Source: www.ukri.org