Turn your research into impact with Oxford Science Enterprises.
We’re entering a scientific golden age – AI, including agentic AI, is transforming how we work, think, and solve the world’s biggest challenges. Oxford is uniquely positioned to lead this new era of discovery and technological innovation.
The Deep Tech team at Oxford Science Enterprises is issuing an open call for bold AI-native ideas that could form the foundations of the next generation of Deep Tech spinouts – from optimising renewable energy to advancing Industry 5.0, and beyond.
If you’re using AI to improve energy efficiency, build agentic systems, strengthen supply chains, or tackle any critical global challenge – we want to hear from you.
What We’re Looking For
We’re seeking early-stage or proof-of-concept ideas that could become future companies. Areas of interest include (but aren’t limited to) the intersection of AI with:
- Energy optimisation, grid resilience, and security
- Data centre sustainability
- Supply chain resilience
- Industrial automation and Industry 5.0
- Materials discovery and advanced manufacturing
- Waste-to-value solutions
- Space sustainability
- Quantum computing
Why Get Involved?
Pitch your idea to industry experts, receive tailored feedback – and, if successful, partner with OSE to bring it to life.
OSE has supported over 100 spinouts – including Deep Tech successes like Oxford Ionics (quantum computing, agreed to be acquired by IonQ, for $1.075bn), YASA (electric motor tech, acquired by Mercedes-Benz), and Latent Logic (AI for autonomous systems, acquired by Waymo).
Support
The most exciting submissions will receive tailored support to explore the commercial potential of their technology, and – if suitable – a pathway to co-create a new Deep Tech company with OSE. This includes:
- Close collaboration with the Deep Tech team and Entrepreneurs-in-Residence to refine your concept and business model
- An accelerated diligence track for investment readiness, plus connections within the Oxford innovation ecosystem, including potential co-founders and investors
- Access to resources, mentorship, technical expertise, and business development support
Who Can Apply?
Researchers, academics, entrepreneurs, and students from across:
- The University of Oxford
- Harwell and Culham Science Parks
- The wider Oxford ecosystem
Assessment Criteria
Applications will be reviewed by our Deep Tech team based on:
- Impact: Does the solution have the potential to address a significant challenge?
- Novelty of approach: Is it a unique application of AI?
- Technology feasibility: Can it realistically be developed and implemented?
- Market viability: What is the commercial potential of the solution?
The Process
- Submit a brief application via our website by Friday 25th July 2025.
- Shortlisted applicants will be invited to present and discuss their ideas in a 30-minute session with the OSE Deep Tech team in August and September.
- OSE will work with the most promising teams to advance their ideas, explore commercialisation, and discuss potential investment strategies.