Northern Ireland

We support businesses across Northern Ireland, working with innovators, small-medium enterprises, large businesses and academia to drive early adoption of advanced digital technologies. In doing so, we build on the region’s strong heritage of innovation and its growing reputation as a globally recognised hub for technology and creativity. We help organisations attract investment, drive efficiencies and increase competitiveness. 

Digital Catapult Northern Ireland works closely with partners including Innovate UK, Belfast Regional City Deal (BRCD), Invest NI and the Department for the Economy to connect industry and academia, fostering innovative partnerships and enabling organisations of all sizes to work smarter through the adoption of advanced digital technologies. 

Through collaboration and knowledge sharing, we introduce businesses to new opportunities by demonstrating how emerging technologies are being applied across industry, helping to accelerate innovation and commercial growth across the region. 

What we offer

We offer a range of innovation services for deep tech startups and large businesses exploring advanced digital technologies. Clients are provided with a range of benefits including access to specialised equipment, industry expertise, collaborative opportunities and hands-on innovation support from our team of industry experts and academics. 

Find out more about our services here

Smart Nano NI

Smart Nano NI is a Northern Ireland consortium developing advanced prototyping and smart manufacturing technologies, with a focus on nano manufacturing and photonics. Its goal is to drive innovation-led economic growth and strengthen research collaboration locally and across the UK. 

Funded by £42.4m from UK Research and Innovation’s Strength in Places Fund (with a total project value of £63.9m), the programme supports the development of cutting-edge technologies and a self-sustaining innovation ecosystem. 

Led by Seagate Technology, the consortium brings together leading industry and academic partners across Northern Ireland to accelerate real-world impact. 

Find out more about the programme here