Startups on alert as UK government opens AI growth zones bidding

Startups were put on alert today as the UK government opened up the bidding for its AI growth zones.

The growth zones, designated areas to ramp up the UK’s AI infrastructure and technology efforts, were announced as part of the government’s AI Action plan last month.

The first site has been confirmed as in Culham, Oxfordshire, home of the UK's Atomic Energy Authority and a testing ground for research into how sustainable energy like fusion tech can help the UK’s AI plans. The government says the zones will lead to thousands of jobs being created.

It said interest was already building for sites in Scotland, Wales, the North East and the North West. Secretary of State for science, innovation, and technology Peter Kyle said he will look to drum up overseas investment in the UK's AI ambitions.

He said:

"We set out our new blueprint for AI less than a month ago, and we’re already delivering on that vision by harnessing technology to supercharge our Plan for Change. These new AI Growth Zones will deliver untold opportunities – sparking new jobs, fresh investment and ensuring every corner of the country has a real stake in our AI-powered future."

The government said it was looking for bids from areas with large existing power connections and a vision on how energy capacity can be increased; deindustrialised areas with land and infrastructure standing ready for redevelopment; and locations close to suitable sites for major energy infrastructure such as nuclear reactors, solar stations and wind farms, or battery storage. 

It also called on AI data centre companies, including startups, and energy firms who are looking to tap into the potential of AI growth zones, to help deliver on its AI plans.