Transformer Programme
The AICC empowers SMEs with AI knowledge and tools, overcoming barriers to drive innovation and growth.
The AICC empowers SMEs with AI knowledge and tools, overcoming barriers to drive innovation and growth.
The AICC’s support for SMEs is critical to driving AI adoption and awareness as it directly addresses the barriers that often hinder smaller businesses, such as limited resources, technical expertise and understanding of AI's potential. By offering fully funded consultancy the AICC equips SMEs with the knowledge and tools needed to integrate AI into their operations, unlocking efficiencies, enhancing decision-making, and fostering innovation.
We offer up to 20 days of fully funded AI, machine learning, and data science consultancy, through our Transformer Programme. This is delivered by in-house data scientists and applied researchers, leveraging the latest AI research from Ulster University and Queen's University Belfast.
Due to high demand, applications for the AICC Transformer Programme are currently closed. The next application window will open on 1st September 2025.
Thank you for your interest, we look forward to supporting your AI journey soon.
Some of the companies we are currently working with.
The AI Collaboration Centre’s Transformer Programme is designed to empower businesses with the tools and expertise needed to leverage artificial intelligence effectively.
SMEs can benefit from up to 20 days of practical, expert-led support to develop and embed customised AI models into their day-to-day operations.
Real companies. Real challenges. Real impact. Through the AICC’s hands-on Transformer Programme, we’re helping organisations of all sizes explore practical AI solutions tailored to their real-world needs.These are their stories.
We’ve designed a simple step-by-step process to help you explore how AI can bring real value to your business.
Complete our short Expression of Interest form on our website to tell us a bit about your business and your interest in AI.
One of our team members will be in touch to arrange an introductory call. This is a chance to learn more about what the AICC can offer and for us to understand the challenges or opportunities you’re facing.
If there’s a good fit, we’ll invite you to complete a short summary (1–2 pages) outlining your challenge, the data you have available, and the impact you hope to achieve.
Our Data Science team will review your submission and may follow up with questions to better understand the context and potential of the project.
If your project is selected, we’ll send you a simple onboarding form to capture key company details and confirm the main point of contact.
To protect your information, we’ll issue a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) covering the terms of our engagement.
Once the NDA is signed, you’ll share the relevant data with us. Our team will assess this and draft a tailored Statement of Work (SoW), outlining what we aim to deliver during the 20-day engagement, typically a Proof of Value or Proof of Concept.
With the SoW agreed and your dedicated AICC team member assigned, the project gets underway. Delivery usually takes place over 1–3 months, depending on your needs and availability.
We’ll present or deploy the AI solution we’ve developed, ensuring it’s aligned with your goals and ready for real-world use.
After the project, we’ll provide a final report summarising outcomes and recommendations for next steps. With your approval, our marketing team will also create a case study, respectfully omitting any commercially sensitive information.
We have curated a list of commercial providers who are experts in various fields, and can provide invaluable support as you continue your AI journey after completing our Transformer Programme.
Innovation thrives through connection. Whether you're an SME, researcher, or professional exploring AI, we’re here to help.
