Isambard-AI and Zenith AIRR supercomputers: Rapid Access route
Funding
Contact funder
Deadline
Check with the funder
Location
England
Applications
Rolling applications
Overview
The Rapid Access route gives researchers at UK registered micro, small and medium-sized businesses access to the Isambard-AI and Zenith AI Research Resource (AIRR) supercomputers for early-stage development of AI products before market launch. Eligible activity includes feasibility studies, industrial research and experimental development. This is in-kind support, not a cash grant: each project can use 20,000 GPU hours within three months of the project start. No funding is provided. Your business must have a Companies House registration number, and the project lead must have a contract longer than the project. The route is open with no closing date. Official source: https://www.ukri.org/opportunity/isambard-ai-and-zenith-airr-supercomputers-rapid-access-route/. Last checked by GrantMatch on 19 October 2026.
Requirements to check
Open to researchers at UK registered micro, small or medium-sized businesses with a Companies House registration number. The project lead must have a contract with the business that lasts longer than the project. There is no limit on applications per organisation. Collaborations are welcome, but the route is not aimed at large research programmes.
This summary may not include every exclusion. Check the full eligibility rules, including who and what the funder will not support.
Regions
Full details from UK Research and Innovation (UKRI)
UK-registered micro, small and medium businesses can apply for 20,000 graphics processing unit hours on the Isambard-AI and Zenith AI Research Resource (AIRR) supercomputers for early-stage artificial intelligence product research and development.
Apply through the AIRRPortal, following UKRI's Rapid Access route guidance and the general AIRRPortal guidance. Applications that do not follow the guidance may be rejected. The lead applicant must check that all information is accurate before submitting. There is no closing date.
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Create free accountLast updated: 19 October 2026