Scotland has launched the AI Discovery initiative, aimed at supporting postgraduate researchers in developing deeptech AI startups that focus on the commercialization of academic research and healthcare innovation.

Individuals like Yaheya Shafti are already finding value in the program, successfully bridging the gap between academic research and practical healthcare applications.

Professor Alessandro Rosiello from the University of Edinburgh emphasizes that AI Discovery is a crucial step in fostering an entrepreneurial mindset among students.

This initiative is designed to help postgraduates leverage AI technologies to tackle significant challenges faced by the National Health Service (NHS).

The Scottish Government views AI Discovery as a key component of its broader strategy to invest in AI innovation and foster public-private partnerships within Scotland's startup ecosystem.

Delivered by CodeBase through its Techscaler program, AI Discovery collaborates with the University of Edinburgh, University of Glasgow, and NHS Scotland to provide a robust framework for aspiring entrepreneurs.

The first cohort of the program will consist of up to 30 postgraduate students participating in a nine-week training course focused on entrepreneurial skills, product development, and market strategies.

Participants will benefit from startup playbooks, mentorship from industry specialists, and networking opportunities with international investors.

Steven Drost, CodeBase's chief strategy officer, highlights the importance of connecting NHS data with AI startups to enhance productivity and drive innovation in healthcare.

AI Discovery also addresses the pressing need for scalable AI solutions in healthcare, as highlighted by a World Economic Forum report indicating that the sector lags in AI integration compared to others.

David Lowe from the University of Glasgow believes the program could revolutionize healthcare by nurturing the next generation of bioentrepreneurs.

Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes praises the transformative potential of AI in health services and anticipates positive outcomes from the collaboration between business, academia, and the public sector.