Local SMEs Investment: Transforming NI into the Ultimate Investment and Travel Destination

• Local SMEs are encouraged to apply for the Augment the City Challenge Fund to enhance visitor experiences in Northern Ireland
• The competition, funded by the Belfast Region City Deal, aims to develop immersive 5G tourism products
• Belfast City Council and partners are supporting innovators to utilize immersive technologies for future attractions
• The Challenge Fund offers crucial support for businesses to invest in innovation and create jobs in the region
• By supporting local SMEs, Northern Ireland aims to become a top destination for investment and tourism

Supporting Local SMEs for a Thriving Economy

In a bid to boost the economy and enhance tourism experiences in Northern Ireland, the new Augment the City Challenge Fund has been launched to support local SMEs in exploring the potential of immersive technologies. This initiative, led by the Belfast City Council’s City Innovation Office and funded by the Belfast Region City Deal, aims to provide crucial backing for businesses looking to develop cutting-edge 5G tourism products and visitor experiences. By nurturing innovation and creativity within the local SME sector, the initiative seeks to position Northern Ireland as a prime destination for investment and tourism.

Opportunities for Innovation and Growth

Councillor Tina Black, the Chair of Belfast City Council’s Strategic Policy and Resources Committee, highlighted the significance of the competition in fostering collaboration between creative industries and tourism organizations. She emphasized that successful applicants will have the chance to showcase their innovative ideas and prototypes, with the support of state-of-the-art wireless digital connectivity. This collaborative approach is expected to generate valuable insights for enhancing future visitor attractions and creating engaging experiences for tourists.

Government Support for Economic Development

The Augment the City Challenge Fund has garnered praise and support from key government figures, including Minister for the Economy, Conor Murphy, and Lord Caine, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Northern Ireland. The fund, backed by the Belfast Region City Deal, aligns with the economic vision of investing in innovation to drive productivity and job creation. With a focus on developing immersive 5G tourism products, the initiative aims to elevate the region’s tourism offerings and contribute to a more vibrant economy.

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Driving Digital Transformation for a Brighter Future

Professor Liam Maguire, chair of the Belfast Region City Deal’s Digital Advisory Board, emphasized the importance of Augment the City in stimulating research and development investment in the digital sector. By fostering collaboration with innovative digital companies, the initiative aims to harness digital technologies to create captivating visitor experiences. This strategic investment not only bolsters the region’s high-growth sectors but also ensures that Northern Ireland remains at the forefront of technological advancements in the tourism industry.

By supporting local SMEs through initiatives like the Augment the City Challenge Fund, Northern Ireland is poised to become a hub for innovation, creativity, and immersive technologies in the tourism sector. These efforts not only enhance the visitor experience but also contribute to a more robust economy, making Northern Ireland an attractive destination for both investment and tourism. Through collaborative partnerships and government support, the region is paving the way for a brighter future filled with cutting-edge digital experiences and sustainable economic growth.