# BridgeAI Deployment Catalyst: AI for operational systems

**Funder:** UKRI
**Budget:** Up to £5 million (shared across awards)
**Consortium:** Required — 2-3 organisations: UK SME lead, one UK medium/large deployer, optional one additional project partner
**TRL:** 5-6
**Eligible countries:** GB
**Official call:** https://apply-for-innovation-funding.service.gov.uk/competition/2599/overview/1931f35c-87fe-4b6a-a718-a61a2d00e86a
**Last updated:** 18 Oct 2026

## Eligibility & scope

UK registered AI SMEs with an existing AI/machine learning solution at TRL 5-6 can lead collaborative projects to deploy AI/ML solutions that perform, control or coordinate operational activity. Consortium must include a UK medium or large deployer organisation.

## Summary

BridgeAI Deployment Catalyst funds UK SME-led consortia to deploy existing AI/machine learning solutions (TRL 5-6) that perform, control or coordinate operational activity, with up to £5 million shared across awards. The call is run by UKRI and requires a UK-registered AI SME to lead the project alongside a UK medium or large deployer organisation. An optional third project partner can join the consortium.

## Who should apply

- UK-registered AI SMEs with an existing solution at TRL 5-6
- Consortium leads able to partner with a UK medium or large deployer organisation
- Teams working on AI/ML that performs, controls or coordinates operational activity
- Projects based in the UK (GB eligibility only)

## Key dates

- Up to £5 million available, shared across awards

## Tips for applicants

- Secure a committed UK medium or large deployer partner early, this is a mandatory consortium requirement, not optional.
- Evidence TRL 5-6 maturity clearly; the call is for deploying existing solutions, not early-stage R&D.
- If including a third project partner, show how it adds distinct deployment value rather than duplicating the SME-deployer roles.

## Frequently asked questions

### How much funding does BridgeAI Deployment Catalyst provide?

Up to £5 million is available, shared across all awards made under the call.

### Who can lead a BridgeAI Deployment Catalyst application?

A UK-registered AI SME with an existing AI/machine learning solution at TRL 5-6 must lead the project.

### What consortium is required for BridgeAI Deployment Catalyst?

A UK SME lead plus a UK medium or large deployer organisation, with an optional third project partner.

### What TRL level does BridgeAI Deployment Catalyst require?

Solutions must already be at TRL 5-6, meaning the call funds deployment rather than early-stage development.

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Source: [The Great Grantsby](https://grantsby.eu/grants/ukri-bridgeai-deployment-catalyst-ai-for-operational-sy-2026) — EU grant monitoring for academic researchers. Always verify details on the funder's website before applying.

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