As one of the UK’s fastest-growing digital economies, Manchester is rapidly emerging as a northern powerhouse for AI innovation. From environmental safety to decision intelligence and next-gen start-ups, local businesses and academic institutions are embracing AI not just in theory—but in action. Here are five standout examples where and how AI is actively reshaping business and society across Greater Manchester.

1. Smart Battery Detection to Prevent Fires

In a groundbreaking collaboration between Lion Vision and the University of Manchester, AI is being used to detect lithium-ion batteries in waste streams. These batteries pose a serious fire hazard in recycling centres. Using deep learning and computer vision, their system scans over 500,000 images daily—identifying up to 600 batteries per hour. This real-world application of AI not only improves operational safety but also sets a new standard in sustainable waste management.

2. Peak’s Decision Intelligence for Global Brands

Manchester-based AI company Peak has become a key player in helping enterprises adopt AI through its decision intelligence platform. Trusted by brands like ASOS, KFC, and PepsiCo, Peak’s platform uses machine learning to optimise supply chains, pricing strategies, and marketing efforts. By embedding predictive analytics directly into everyday workflows, businesses are able to make smarter, faster, and more data-driven decisions.

3. Empowering SMEs Through the GM AI Foundry

Backed by a £6 million investment, the Greater Manchester AI Foundry supports local SMEs in applying AI to real business challenges. The initiative has already helped over 170 small and medium enterprises across health tech, advanced manufacturing, and creative industries. Thirty AI prototypes have been developed through the Foundry, illustrating how academic collaboration can translate AI research into practical business solutions.

4. AI Start-Ups Fueling the City’s Innovation Engine

Manchester’s AI start-up ecosystem is thriving. Companies like Arctic Shores are revolutionising recruitment using AI-based gamified assessments, while Netacea applies machine learning to detect malicious bots in web traffic. Biorelate, another standout, is accelerating biomedical research using AI-powered literature mining. These businesses exemplify how AI is fuelling innovation across sectors—from HR to cybersecurity to life sciences.

5. Turing Innovation Catalyst Manchester

Launched as part of the Alan Turing Institute’s regional programme, the Turing Innovation Catalyst in Manchester is helping to build a sustainable AI ecosystem. To date, it has supported over 50 AI-first start-ups, collaborated on 24 SME R&D projects, and trained dozens of doctoral candidates in applied AI. Its focus on local talent and long-term research impact makes it a critical driver of regional AI leadership.

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Final Thoughts

Manchester isn’t just keeping up with AI trends—it’s leading them. Through strategic partnerships, government-backed initiatives, and an entrepreneurial mindset, the city is demonstrating how AI can drive real business outcomes across multiple sectors. From environmental safety to decision-making at scale, these use cases show the tangible power of data and artificial intelligence when applied with purpose.

As the AI landscape continues to evolve, Manchester’s momentum positions it as one of the UK’s most exciting innovation hubs. Want to see Manchester innovation in action? Join us at Data Decoded MCR 2025 on 21-22 October, register free today!