Early-stage startups and small businesses in Surrey’s creative industries are being invited to apply for a new AI accelerator programme launching this summer.
CoSTAR National Lab, based at Royal Holloway, University of London, has opened applications for CoSTAR Emerge-AI. The programme is designed to help businesses working with artificial intelligence take early ideas from prototype stage through to initial validation.
Applications are open from 17 June to 18 August 2026, with workshops taking place between October to December 2026.
What the programme offers
- A tailored three-month support package from October to December 2026
- Eight expert-led workshops and masterclasses
- Two one-to-one mentoring sessions
- Access to specialist facilities and industry connections
- Cloud credits to support development
- Up to £5,000 funding to cover project costs
The accelerator forms part of the wider CoSTAR AI for Creativity initiative, supporting innovation across the creative and technology sectors.
Who should apply
- Early-stage startups and SMEs
- Businesses developing AI solutions for the creative industries
- Companies looking to test and validate new products or services
Businesses interested in applying can join the webinar on 7 July to learn more about the programme and ask questions ahead of submitting an application. Find out more, and register for the webinar.
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