Enterprise Ireland provide a range of programmes that help enterprises to innovate. These programmes can help with short-term and relatively small innovation projects, right through to building deeper engagement through large-scale, multiannual collaborative projects. Included are programmes to drive in-company R&D in Irish-owned companies and programmes to support the translation of academic research into new products, processes and services by industry. Enterprise Ireland’s innovation programmes are centred on transforming R&D activity in enterprise, promoting industry collaboration with the third level sector and realising the commercial potential of the Irish research community.
Transforming R&D activity in enterprise
Direct supports for R&D activity within Irish firms which assist companies to build R&D capability and acquire new technology through licensing. Equity support for new High Potential Start-ups (HPSUs) is also included.
Promoting industry collaboration with the third level sector
These programmes aim to boost collaborative R&D between industry and academia. Key initiatives include Innovation Vouchers and Innovation Partnerships which can help fund collaborative RDI projects with the third level sector. The Innovation Vouchers, help companies in Ireland to access academic expertise, in either Ireland or Northern Ireland, often serving as their first step into research and innovation.
Funding is also provided for the Technology Gateways (co-funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF)) and based in Technological Universities (TUs) and Dundalk Institute of Technology. The Technology Gateways offer research and innovation support and assistance to start-ups, HPSUs, SMEs, large indigenous and multinationals in a wide range of sectors. Since 2013 the Network of 17 Gateways has collaborated with over 4,500 Irish companies completing more than 7,000 innovation projects. Further details on the Network and the 17 individual Gateways can be found at Technology Gateway Network.
In addition, the EI/IDA Technology Centre Programme funds 9 centres, each led by industry and focused on commercially relevant research. They work closely with businesses to define research agendas, with academic teams delivering tailored solutions. Focus areas include food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, medical devices, engineering, ICT, education/training, AI, microelectronics, and construction. Further details can be found at Technology Centres.
Also included is New Frontiers, Enterprise Ireland’s flagship entrepreneurship development programme, that provides training and supports for ambitious startup founders with an innovative business idea. The programme is delivered nationwide - in partnership with third-level institutions across 18 locations. Further information can be accessed at New Frontiers Programme - Startup Founders.
Realising the commercial potential of the Irish research community
This includes programmes aimed at accelerating the commercialisation of third-level research, such as the Enterprise Ireland Commercialisation Fund, which supports researchers in bringing commercially viable research outputs to the point where they can be transferred to industry.
The Innovators’ Initiative, co-funded by the ERDF, develops innovative entrepreneurs and industry talent through immersive training in sectors such as medtech, cybersecurity, digital health, and food and agri-sustainable tech.
Knowledge Transfer Ireland (KTI), funded by the department, is Ireland’s national office for knowledge transfer and helps business to benefit from access to Irish expertise and technology by making it simpler to connect and engage with the research base in Ireland. This includes maintaining the National IP Protocol which sets out the framework for engaging in collaboration and is supplemented by model agreements and guideline on the management of intellectual property.
In addition, KTI manage Knowledge Transfer Boost (KT Boost) which is co-funded by the ERDF. KT Boost supports a network of dedicated staff within the Technology Transfer Offices (TTOs) of Universities and Technological Universities. Their role is to maximise the commercial potential of research outputs—either by facilitating their transfer to industry or by commercialising them within the university through spin-out companies.
Information on the various R&D innovations supports can be accessed at Become more innovative - Business Support.
Enterprise Ireland funding supports
Enterprise Ireland provide funding and supports through various critical response funding schemes and grants. These supports are available to companies who are facing challenges brought on by international events. Enterprise Ireland, through the Green Transition Fund and the Digital Transition Fund also provide funding to companies who wish to digitalise their operations and become more energy efficient and carbon neutral.
Further information relating to these programs can be accessed at Funding and grants - Business Support.