We are pleased to announce the successful projects from ACORN’s first round of funding, supporting new collaborations and early‑stage innovation in robotics and AI for nuclear decommissioning.
The projects funded in this initial round bring together researchers, industry, site operators and other non‑academic partners to explore real‑world challenges, test ideas, and build the foundations for future impact across Cumbria and Oxfordshire. They span early collaboration, feasibility and translation activity, reflecting ACORN’s commitment to supporting innovation at different stages of development.
This first set of awards marks an important milestone for the programme. Alongside technology translation, ACORN’s approach places strong emphasis on collaboration, skills and culture — creating the conditions for more inclusive, place‑based innovation and long‑term capability in nuclear robotics and AI.
We would like to thank everyone who applied in this first round and all those who engaged with ACORN through events, conversations and early collaboration. The quality and range of proposals demonstrates both the demand for this kind of flexible, exploratory support and the strength of the emerging innovation ecosystem.
Further funding opportunities will open over the coming months, including rolling collaboration awards and additional calls later in the year. Details will be shared on the ACORN website.
Congratulations to all of the funded teams — we look forward to working with you and sharing progress as the projects get underway.
