As a pilot initiative, the programme combines structured training, personalised mentoring, technical guidance, and access to Europe’s advanced AI computing infrastructure with connections to investors, corporate partners, researchers, and industry experts across the European AI ecosystem.
The BSC AI Factory Acceleration Programme, launched as a pilot initiative, kicks off on Friday 22 May 2026 with a provisional selection of 15 AI startups out of 87 applicants. Led by the Barcelona Supercomputing Center (BSC) under the BSC AI Factory initiative, the programme is designed to accelerate early-stage AI companies developing advanced technologies with strong scalability potential. Participants will also benefit from connections with investors, corporate partners, researchers, and industry experts across the European AI ecosystem.
Running from 22 May to 23 July 2026, this first edition aims to help founders transform ambitious AI ideas into scalable businesses capable of addressing real-world challenges in sectors including healthcare, climate, energy, finance, public administration, communications, and biotech. It includes 12 structured sessions divided into three phases: Inspire, Hands On, and Scale. The 15 selected startups will receive expert mentoring, technical guidance, business support, and access to Europe’s advanced AI infrastructure, culminating in a final Demo Day at the end of July where participants will pitch to investors and ecosystem leaders.
“Through this first edition of the BSC AI Factory Acceleration Programme, we aim to support European startups in scaling transformative ideas into real-world impact by providing access to supercomputing infrastructure, hands-on technical support, and a unique ecosystem of leading researchers and industry experts”, says Mariona Sanz, BSC Head of Innovation and Business Development Unit and lead of the BSC AIF. The initiative is also expected to deepen collaboration between startups, researchers and industry experts.
The Acceleration Programme is part of the broader BSC AI Factory objective to position Europe at the forefront of responsible and impactful AI innovation while reinforcing technological sovereignty through high-performance computing and collaborative AI development.
Future editions of the programme are expected to open new calls in the coming months. Interested parties can follow updates through the BSC AI Factory official website and social media channels.