- New projects sought for €500m Disruptive Technologies Innovation Fund
- Fund aims to encourage collaborations between industry and research sector for innovative technologies
- Ministers launch Call 7 of the Fund in Mullingar, Co. Westmeath
- Fund supports projects in areas like quantum technologies, digital transformation, and AI
- Projects must align with Ireland’s Research Priority Areas and demonstrate positive contribution to sustainability targets
New Projects for the €500m Disruptive Technologies Innovation Fund
The Disruptive Technologies Innovation Fund (DTIF) has been a pivotal initiative in encouraging collaboration between industry and research sectors to develop and commercialize groundbreaking technologies. With the recent launch of Call 7, the fund aims to further drive innovation and support projects that will make a real difference in people’s lives.
Government Support for Innovation
Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Peter Burke, T.D., along with other key ministers, highlighted the importance of the DTIF in future-proofing Ireland amidst challenging times. The fund seeks to support collaborative projects utilizing cutting-edge technologies to enhance economic growth, digitalization, and climate action targets. Minister Burke emphasized the need for projects that will have a tangible impact on society and improve the quality of life.
Focus on Key Technology Areas
Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, Patrick O’Donovan, TD, underscored the significance of the DTIF in maximizing investments in Irish research institutions. The fund prioritizes areas like quantum technologies, emphasizing breakthroughs that can drive innovation and create job opportunities for graduates. By fostering collaborations between companies and research facilities, the aim is to accelerate technological advancements that will benefit multiple sectors.
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Digital Transformation and Innovation
Minister of State for Trade Promotion, Digital and Company Regulation, Dara Calleary, TD, highlighted the government’s commitment to supporting companies in enhancing their digital capabilities. The DTIF has played a crucial role in supporting digital transformation projects, particularly in areas like artificial intelligence. By investing in disruptive technologies, enterprises are better positioned to integrate digitalization into their operations, contributing to Ireland’s advancement in digital technologies.
The Disruptive Technologies Innovation Fund has already seen success with previous projects, such as the innovative ostomy pouch developed by Ostoform Ltd in collaboration with Ross Polymer Ltd and Technological University Shannon. This project exemplifies the fund’s goal of supporting advancements that improve patient well-being and quality of life.
Projects seeking funding from the DTIF are encouraged to align with Ireland’s priority enterprise policy objectives, focusing on digital transformation, decarbonization, and sustainability. The government has allocated substantial funding to support projects across various sectors, including life sciences, ICT, manufacturing, and environmental initiatives.
With Call 7 now open for submissions until April 30, 2025, the DTIF presents a significant opportunity for innovative projects to secure funding and drive technological advancements in Ireland. The fund, established under the National Development Plan in 2018, aims to facilitate collaboration between research institutions and industry to support the development and adoption of disruptive technologies on a commercial basis.
The Disruptive Technologies Innovation Fund stands as a key pillar in Ireland’s innovation ecosystem, offering vital support to projects that push the boundaries of technology and drive positive change across industries. As the fund continues to evolve and support new projects, it reinforces Ireland’s commitment to fostering innovation and driving economic growth through cutting-edge technologies.
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