UK opens competition to host its national AI supercomputer

The UK government has opened a competition to find a home for its next national AI supercomputer. It anticipates making up to about £180 million available for the data centre that will house the machine, subject to approvals. The host will need to show it can deliver the power, cooling and network connections the system needs. Find a Grant competition listing

The system is part of the UK’s AI Research Resource, a programme that gives UK researchers, public bodies and smaller businesses access to computing capacity. The government first sought expressions of interest in July. The November competition moves the focus to selecting a site and funding the infrastructure to support it. July expression of interest

Why the grid connection matters

An eligible UK research organisation can lead a bid and bring in partners to help deliver the facility. Under the published criteria, bidders need experience hosting or running large computing services and evidence that they can secure enough firm power. The listing calls for capacity to support an initial 10 MW of computing equipment, rising to 30 MW. That puts grid access alongside research expertise in determining which UK sites can compete. Eligibility and capacity requirements

The grant covers the facility and its supporting services, including power infrastructure and cooling. The government will fund the machine’s hardware and installation separately. The £180 million figure is an indication of the potential hosting grant. A host and final award value have yet to be announced in the competition documents. Invitation to apply

The public listing gives two different closing dates. Its header says noon on 25 November, while its dates section and updated invitation say 26 November. Applicants should confirm the deadline with the department using the contact details on the grant listing. Application timetable

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