Digital Catapult has welcomed 10 AI-led start-ups to its accelerator programme to address operational inefficiencies in the UK’s construction industry.
The cohort, which are part of the Innovate UK BridgeAI programme, aimed at driving the practical application of artificial intelligence (AI) in high-growth sectors, will address inefficiencies in the UK’s construction industry by collaborating with Foster + Partners, Versarien and Buro Happold, to assess how AI-driven innovation could be applied to solve sector-specific challenges.
The cohort comprises: AIConstruct, Planninghub, DONAA, Planarific, Gpeto AI, Lattice, Fairware, BOHM, Infinitive and Constructify.
The Innovate UK BridgeAI programme is delivered by Innovate UK, Digital Catapult, The Alan Turing Institute, the Hartree Centre (STFC) and the British Standards Institution (BSI).
Dr Stephen Hodge, chief executive officer at Versarien, said: “The BridgeAI accelerator programme is a fantastic initiative to address some of the most pressing challenges in modern construction. At Versarien, we see immense potential in applying AI to optimise 3D construction printing, from supporting design efficiency to enhancing the durability of printed structures through material insights and sensor integration. Our team is eager to contribute and support startups in driving these solutions forward.”
Alain Waha, chief technology officer at Buro Happold, added: “Digital Catapult’s accelerator through the Innovate UK BridgeAI programme is a catalyst for change in the engineering and construction industry. The UK’s immense AI talent must be mobilised to solve the systemic problems of the built environment. With these AI challenges, BridgeAI deepens how the industry, and Buro Happold, connect with the UK’s most innovative companies to tackle real industry problems. We look forward to transformational proposals from all applicants, and first steps to delivering outcomes by the cohort of successful startups.”
Jessica Rushworth, chief partnerships officer, at Digital Catapult, said: “The High Growth AI Accelerator for BridgeAI is a transformative initiative delivered by Digital Catapult to fast-track the adoption of AI-driven deep tech solutions in the construction industry. By connecting deep tech startups with industry leaders such as Foster + Partners, Buro Happold, and Versarien, this programme bridges the gap between cutting-edge innovation and real-world application. I look forward to seeing practical AI solutions emerge from the programme that will shape the future of construction.”
Martha Tsigkari, head of applied R+D at Foster + Partners, said: “We recognise the significant value that initiatives such as the BridgeAI accelerator bring, aligning industry needs with innovative startups to promote the adoption of transformative AI technologies. We are eager to contribute to the impactful ideas that will emerge from this programme.”
Sara El-Hanfy, head of artificial intelligence and machine learning at Innovate UK, added: “The adoption of AI in UK industry is fundamental to supporting the country’s economic growth. The announcement of the latest Innovate UK BridgeAI High Growth Accelerator cohort will drive sustainable growth within the construction sector by supporting ten innovative AI startups to develop and validate impactful solutions that address real-world challenges, while creating opportunities for long-term collaborative endeavours.”
