The Lough Neagh: Blue-Green Algae SBRI is being developed to explore potential solutions to treat and reduce Blue-Green Algae blooms without impacting the natural environment of Lough Neagh and associated Northern Ireland water ways.

The competition process is being managed on behalf of DAERA by SBRI, part of the Strategic Investment Board (SIB) and DAERA is the contracting body in this procurement. The SBRI has two phases and will be expected to follow the standard approach:

• Phase one: Five applicants selected to develop proof of concepts. A total funding package of £450k has been secured via DAERA and DfE for Phase one; and
• Phase two: Two to three concepts selected and developed as potential pilot solutions.

There is scope for physical, chemical or biological, or a combination of solutions, but whatever solution is developed, it must not contribute to further environmental degradation. It must also comply with legislation and environmental designations.

The application phase for Phase one is due to launch on Monday 5th August and will be open for six weeks, after which successful applicants will be selected. It is anticipated that Phase one will run through to March 2025 with a potential call for Phase two commencing Summer 2025.

This Information Event is being held online to provide further detail to potential suppliers on the :

• The challenge brief and competition scope
• The SBRI process
• How to apply
• An opportunity for suppliers to ask Questions from DAERA and SBRI

Full competition details, criteria and application form will be available on 5th August 2024.