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Digital Catapult > Get involved > Events > Day of Photonics 2026

Day of Photonics 2026

Date: 21 October 2026 12:15 - 17:00

Register by: Sunday 18 October 2026

  

Event overview

Photonics is rapidly emerging as a driving force for growth in Northern Ireland, enabling innovation and unlocking new opportunities across advanced manufacturing, biotech, energy, defence and beyond. By harnessing transformative technologies, the sector is shaping the future of industry, talent and economic resilience in the region.

Day of Photonics 2026 will bring together leaders from industry, academia and government to explore the potential of photonics, showcase innovations and strengthen collaboration across Northern Ireland’s deep tech ecosystem. The event offers a platform for horizon scanning, knowledge exchange and strategic networking, helping to accelerate the practical application of photonics to tackle industrial challenges, build capability and drive sustainable growth. The day will also mark the launch of the NI Photonics Innovation Cluster (NI-PIC), a new hub designed to foster collaboration, drive adoption and accelerate the impact of photonics across the region.

Join us to connect with key stakeholders, discover cutting-edge photonics developments and be part of Northern Ireland’s journey to become a hub for innovation and future-ready industries.

 

Secure your place today

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Who Should Attend?

  • Industry adopters exploring photonics solutions.
  • Photonics technology providers and service suppliers.
  • Policymakers and regional development stakeholders.
  • Members of the Smart Nano NI Consortium, the NI Photonics Innovation Cluster and other innovation networks

Why attend?

  • Discover how photonics is driving growth in Northern Ireland’s advanced manufacturing sector.
  • Connect with industry leaders, innovators, and policymakers shaping the region’s future.
  • Hear exclusive insights on emerging trends, skills, and opportunities.
  • Be part of the launch of the NI Photonics Innovation Cluster.

Agenda

12.15 | Registration and lunch

13.00 | Welcome

13.10 | Keynote | The UK Photonics Roadmap: Growth, Competitiveness and National Capability

13.30 | Panel discussion: Building a Photonics Ecosystem That Scales

13.45 | Spotlight: Ireland’s Photonics and Semiconductor Landscape

13.55 | Panel discussion: The UK-Ireland Collaborative Opportunity for Northern Ireland

14.40 Networking break

15.00 | Panel discussion: From Research Strength to Economic Impact

15.30 | Fireside chat: EIZ and Photonics Cluster Spotlight

15.50 | Closing reflections: Northern Ireland’s Place in the Future Photonics Ecosystem

16.00 | Close and networking: The conversation continues

 

Day of Photonics 2026 will provide an opportunity to connect with organisations across the photonics ecosystem, hear different perspectives on the opportunities ahead and explore how Northern Ireland can build on its existing strengths to play a greater role in the future of photonics.

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