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UCL Centre for Digital Innovation

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Frequently Asked Questions

We already have a proof-of-concept, but it has not been built on AWS yet. Will you provide help to migrate?

Yes – we will provide all the guidance you need to map your current proof-of-concept to AWS services through a modernisation approach based upon the AWS Well Architected pillars.

I am already using AWS to run my project – what benefit will I have from working with the CDI?

That is great news – we will explore your current architecture through activities such as a Well Architected review and give you access to domain specialists to make the best of what AWS has to offer. You can also check out all the comprehensive benefits of participating in the programme on our what we offer page.

My project team has very limited IT and software development skills. Will the CDI provide software engineering support?

The CDI will work with you to assess your technical needs and recommend suitable development pathways. While the CDI itself does not provide dedicated software engineering resources, we will guide you toward skills development opportunities, training programmes, and potential partners. 

Where appropriate, we can connect you with UCL’s Advanced Research Computing (ARC) team — particularly components that are not IP-sensitive and can be developed as open-source or reusable resources. 

Alternatively, we can introduce you to AWS Partners who can support your technical development on a self-funded basis, helping you accelerate your project’s progress using AWS technologies. 

How long does the CDI support run for?

The duration of support provided by the Centre will depend on the individual needs of each project and which phases of the programme they are selected to participate in. This could range from between 3 to 9 months and the precise requirements of each project will be assessed during the application process. Review the details of the different phases of the programme on our what we offer page

What is the structure of the Impact Accelerator programme?

All details regarding the structure and different phases of the programme can be found on our what we offer page.

Does admission to the Pre-Accelerator guarantee admission to the Accelerator? 

No, admission to the Pre-Accelerator does not guarantee progression to the Accelerator. Admission to the Accelerator is based on alignment between the goals and needs of teams and the support we have available to offer at the CDI conducted by the Steering Committee through the Pre-Accelerator assessment output: the PRFAQ Document and Technical Needs Report.

What happens if I complete the Pre-Accelerator but am not selected for the Accelerator? 

Those ventures we are unable to support in progressing to the Accelerator stage of the programme may be connected with other UCL initiatives better aligned to their current stage of development, ensuring they receive the most relevant support and value. 

Will we continue to have access to AWS credits after leaving the programme? 

Yes, you will leave the programme with a set amount of AWS credits, determined at the conclusion of your participation. We will also connect you with other AWS programmes that offer additional credits and resources to support your ongoing projects. 

Can the Pre-Accelerator workshops be conducted virtually? 

The Introductory Product Development Workshop and Technical Workshop can be conducted virtually, however, to be accepted onto the programme it is mandatory that all the relevant members of your team are available to attend the Innovation Workshop in person.  

Can the Accelerator sessions be conducted virtually? 

To be accepted onto the programme, it is mandatory that all relevant members of your team are available to attend in person the Kick-Off Day, Demo Day and first half day session with AWS Solutions Architects in Week 1. All other sessions can be conducted virtually. 

Do I need a technical team to be able to participate in the programme? 

 Yes, having a technical team is essential for successful participation in the programme. 

Does UCL retain ownership of students' intellectual property (IP) resulting from their research? 

 No, UCL does not own students' intellectual properties (IPs).