EPSRC
Transformative Sustainable AI Technologies
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EPSRC's Transformative Sustainable AI Technologies call funds speculative, high-risk research to improve the sustainability of AI systems, including algorithms, hardware, software and architectures, with up to £482,000 available (80% of £602,500 FEC). The grant is open to researchers at UK-approved research organisations and runs for up to 24 months with a fixed start date of 1 February 2027. This is a one-off call emphasising frontier research on AI efficiency and environmental impact.
Details
| Funder | EPSRC |
| Budget | Up to £602,500 (80% FEC funded by UKRI) |
| Deadline | 10 November 2026 |
| Duration | Up to 24 months |
| Consortium | Optional - researcher co-leads and project partners encouraged; international researchers may join only as project co-lead (international) under UKRI-RCN or UKRI-IIASA agreements |
| Application | Single stage |
| Frequency | One-off |
| Eligible countries | GB |
Eligibility & scope
UKRI/EPSRC funding for speculative, high-risk research developing novel AI technologies, hardware, algorithms or systems that improve sustainability of future AI. Technology-led proposals only; majority non-technical (social science, policy, legal, ethics) applications excluded. Projects must start 1 February 2027; only UK-registered organisations may lead via the UKRI Funding Service.
Who Should Apply
- •Researchers at UK-approved research organisations (lead applicant)
- •Teams pursuing speculative, high-risk research on AI sustainability
- •Projects addressing algorithms, hardware, software or system architectures for efficiency
- •International collaborators and co-leads eligible under UKRI-RCN or UKRI-IIASA partnerships
Key Dates
- •Deadline: 10 November 2026, 4:00pm UK time
- •Fixed project start date: 1 February 2027
- •Project duration: up to 24 months
Tips for Applicants
- ✓This is a one-off call; there is no future round, prioritise your strongest sustainability-focused AI idea.
- ✓EPSRC rewards high-risk, speculative work here; over-cautious framing reduces competitiveness.
- ✓PhD studentship costs and equipment over £25k per item are ineligible; cost-plan accordingly and separate high-value kit from the budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much can I request for a Transformative Sustainable AI Technologies project?
Up to £482,000 (UKRI funds 80% of the eligible full economic cost capped at £602,500).
Who can lead a Transformative Sustainable AI Technologies project?
Researchers based at UK-approved research organisations; international collaborators may join as project partners or co-leads under UKRI-RCN or UKRI-IIASA agreements.
What research areas does this call cover?
High-risk, speculative research on AI sustainability across algorithms, hardware, software and system architectures.
Can I include PhD studentships and large equipment in my budget?
No; PhD studentship costs and equipment over £25k per item are not eligible.
Summary generated by AI based on published grant information. Always verify details on the funder's website.
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