A new Artificial Intelligence (AI) accelerator programme for start-ups at University College Dublin (UCD) has been launched this week.
The 6-month AI Ecosystem Accelerator, which begins in April, will be delivered by NovaUCD, the university’s hub of innovation and start-up activities, in partnership with CeADAR, Ireland’s National Centre for Applied AI.
The focus of the new accelerator programme is to support entrepreneurs who are developing disruptive AI solutions in sectors including, healthcare, cybersecurity, education, sustainability, finance, content creation, supply chain and customer service, for a global market.
'Dedicated Supports'
“There is no doubt Ireland’s entrepreneurs and founders have the talent, the creativity, and the drive to seize the opportunities of AI to improve the way we all live and work," said Minister of State for Trade Promotion, Digital and Company Regulation, Dara Calleary.
"Sitting at the crossroads of higher education, industry, and research, the AI Ecosystem Accelerator programme aims to support AI start-ups grow through dedicated technical and commercial supports."
EDIH Framework
The programme is being funded through the European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIH) framework, a Europe-wide initiative with funding of €700 million from both the European Commission and the Governments of member states.
The Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment, through Enterprise Ireland, is leading on the EDIH programme for Ireland and CeADAR has been designated as the European Digital Innovation Hub in AI for Ireland.
'Successful Entrepreneurs'
“We are delighted to be announcing a new AI Ecosystem Accelerator programme which we will be delivering with CeADAR to showcase and support the most advanced AI start-ups in Ireland," said Director of Enterprise and Commercialisation at UCD, Tom Flanagan.
"We are currently seeking applications from Irish-based start-ups with really novel AI-based products or services, who want to be part of an ecosystem of the most successful entrepreneurs in Ireland using AI."
Commencement
Applications are now open for the first AI Ecosystem Accelerator programme at https://www.ucd.ie/innovation/aiecosystem/
The 6-month programme will begin in April and will end with a Demo Day in September.
