The University of Plymouth has launched a £275,000 project to help tourism and hospitality businesses in South West England develop practical uses of artificial intelligence. Announced on 21 October 2026, the initiative is led by Plymouth Business School with support from Innovate UK.

The South West Visitor Economy AI Skills Accelerator will connect students, graduates and working professionals with employers. Led by Dr Rong Huang, it will establish an AI Professional Practice pathway combining education with business projects.

Activities will include paid graduate traineeships, internships, consultancy assignments and practical learning modules. Participants will address challenges involving customer analysis, marketing and visitor experiences, examining opportunities to apply AI throughout the journey from travel planning to repeat visits.

Partners include the Institute of Travel and Tourism, Destination Plymouth, Women in Travel CIC, Building Brands and Brand Biscuit’s AI Hub South West.

Businesses interested in hosting placements or proposing consultancy challenges can contact project manager Kim Turner at kim.turner@plymouth.ac.uk. Graduates and working professionals can register their interest through the university’s online form.

Further information and participation details.