Matrix

Innovators Under 35 Europe Festival 2023
2023-05-11 - 2023-05-12 | Gaoth Dobhair, Ireland
Innovators Under 35 Europe Festival 2023 is a unique opportunity to meet the shapers of our future, transforming our lives through their technological advances. Our festival will bring together young European visionaries pursuing the same objective: innovation, ingenuity, and advances toward addressing the world’s most pressing challenges.
35 entrepreneurs, inventors, visionaries, pioneers and humanitarians will be selected for their outstanding technological achievements. Brilliant men and women are recognised for their advancements in diverse technical fields such as biotechnology and medicine, computer and electronics, hardware, software, Internet, artificial intelligence, robotics, telecommunications, nanotechnology and materials, energy and transportation.
A committee of judges, made up of experts from leading universities and companies will select the 35 candidates. In addition to this, the competition recognizes five different categories of innovators: Inventors, Entrepreneurs, Visionaries, Humanitarians and pioneers.
NOMINATIONS HAVE NOW CLOSED

From start-up to enterprise: Implementing an effective deployment strategy
2023-05-17 10:30 - 14:15 (Europe/London) | Hilton Belfast, 4 Lanyon Place, Belfast, Northern Ireland, BT1 3LP, United Kingdom
An event is being held to celebrate the technical partnership of Anaeko Data Engineering and Octopus Deploy.
The event comprising of a keynote and fireside panel will look at implementing an effective deployment strategy for any business from start-up to enterprise. The keynote will be presented by Michéle Johl, IT Engineering Manager at Unily.
Michéle will explore how Unily went from a start-up solution to an enterprise-level SaaS platform using Octopus to deploy Unily for clients, with lessons learnt. He will also look into how the operations team at Unily took challenges and turned them into opportunities like automation of deployments and self-service solutions using Octopus.
Anaeko will showcase their technical expertise, and will invite partners to join for a follow-up fireside chat to discuss the points raised in Michéle’s keynote address. The Panel will consist of experts in tech DevOps including Mike Nguyen ( Octopus Deploy) and Glenn Russell ( Qarik).
The event promises to be both educational and informative, with the opportunity to network with a first-class audience of innovative minds from across Northern Ireland’s technical landscape.

Women in Tech Awards 2023
2023-05-25 18:00 - 23:55 | The Europa Hotel, Great Victoria Street, Belfast, BT2 7AP, United Kingdom
The Women in Tech Awards will recognise women who innovate, challenge and embrace technology, showcasing inspirational individuals who have achieved great success within the sector.
The gala awards evening, sponsored by VANRATH, takes place on Thursday 25th May at The Europa Hotel, Belfast.

Using data to drive the sustainable revolution in transport
2023-06-21 10:30 - 14:00 | Hilton Belfast, 4 Lanyon Place, Belfast, Northern Ireland, BT1 3LP, United Kingdom
This event will delve into the groundbreaking innovations and cutting-edge technologies that are reshaping the transportation sector and propelling us towards a greener and more efficient future.
Throughout the event, expert speakers from various industries will shed light on the pivotal role that data plays in revolutionising transport systems worldwide. They will present compelling case studies and share key statistics that highlight the significant positive impact data-driven initiatives have on reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainability.
Attendees will gain invaluable insights into the latest advancements in data analytics, machine learning, and artificial intelligence that are revolutionising the way we move people and goods. Discover how data-driven strategies enable smarter route planning, optimise energy consumption, and facilitate the adoption of alternative fuels and electric vehicles, all with the aim of achieving a net zero carbon footprint.
Don’t miss this unique opportunity to explore the intersection of data and sustainability in transport, as we strive to create a cleaner, greener, and more efficient future for all.

The Compass
2024-02-15 17:00 - 2024-02-17 21:00 | 2 Royal Avenue, 2 Royal Avenue, Belfast, Northern Ireland, BT1 1DA, United Kingdom
Matrix is delighted to be sponsoring the launch of the 10th annual NI Sciencefest
“Prepare for spellbinding projections, bringing to life how we navigate knowledge, as well as the epic stories of our own researchers, and the science that shapes the world around us.”

Grace's Green Gadgets (Belfast)
2024-02-16 11:00 - 17:00 | The Mac, 10 Exchange Street, West, Belfast, Northern Ireland, BT1 2NJ, United Kingdom
Matrix is proud to be sponsoring Grace’s Green Gadgets at this years NI Science Festival.
Grace Webb is the amazing host of the award-winning CBeebies show Grace’s Amazing Machines where she explores some of the biggest, fastest and most amazing machines in the world.

Grace's Green Gadgets (Derry/Londonderry)
2024-02-17 11:00 - 17:00 | waterside theatre, Glendermott Road, Derry/Londonderry, bt47 6bg, United Kingdom

The Secret Lives of the Elements with Kathyrn Harkup
2024-02-17 14:00 - 15:00 | Ulster Museum, Stranmillis Road, Belfast, Northern Ireland, BT7 1NG, United Kingdom
Kathryn Harkup is a former chemist turned vampirologist and science communicator. She writes and gives regular public talks on the disgusting and dangerous side of science.
Kathryn’s first book was the international best-seller A is for Arsenic: The Poisons of Agatha Christie, which was shortlisted for a Mystery Readers International Macavity Award and a BMA Book Award. She has also written books on Frankenstein, vampires, Shakespeare, James Bond and chemistry.

Lieven Scheire - A.I.
2024-02-17 20:00 - 21:30 | The Black Box, 18-22 Hill Street, Belfast, Northern Ireland, BT1 2LA, United Kingdom
In this show, Lieven Scheire will introduce you to this new superhero of technology in an entertaining and accessible way. You’ll get a glimpse of how it all works, what it can already do and what it will be capable of in the future. It’s a first encounter with something that might soon become your new friend, butler, advisor, psychologist, personal trainer or guardian angel: Artificial Intelligence.

Famelab - Northern Ireland Final
2024-02-21 19:00 - 22:00 | Ulster Sports Club, 96-98 High Street, Belfast, BT1 2BG, United Kingdom
Experience the thrilling showcase of scientific talent and communication at FameLab Northern Ireland’s live final, featuring ten finalists competing with charm, scientific expertise, and innovation in a three-minute window.
The format of FameLab is deceptively simple; on the competition stage, participants are given just three minutes to share their scientific research or work with a general audience, armed with just simple props. This live event takes place in front of a panel of expert judges, as entrants compete for the title of the UK’s best science communicator.

What’s the blooming problem with Lough Neagh?
2024-02-22 19:30 - 21:00 | Seamus Heaney HomePlace, 45 Main Street, Bellaghy, Magherafelt, BT45 8HT, United Kingdom
Lough Neagh, a vital freshwater resource, is facing an unprecedented challenge. To address this critical environmental concern, we have brought together scientists and local professionals who will share their knowledge, research findings, and potential solutions, and who will delve into the intricate science behind the alarming proliferation of blue-green algae in one of Northern Ireland’s most significant water bodies.
Take this chance to gain a deeper understanding of the science behind the Lough Neagh blue-green algae crisis. Together, we can explore solutions and work towards safeguarding this precious natural resource.

Foyle Science Showcase - Schools Edition!
2024-02-23 10:00 - 16:00 | Foyle Arena, 2, Limavady Rd,, Derry Londonderry, Northern Ireland, BT47 6JY, United Kingdom
Prepare for a day of excitement and exploration at the Foyle Science Showcase! Delight in mind-bending science shows, immersive exhibits, and interactive activities that promise to inspire the next generation of scientists and innovators. From captivating illusions to virtual reality experiences, this event is a celebration of curiosity and discovery.
Science Shows:

That’s Non-Sense by Braintastic: Witness the magic of multi-sensory tricks and visual illusions.

The Magical Science and Engineering Show: Join Scientific Sue for a funny and thought-provoking ‘Magic Show’ with a wacky combination of science and drama.

Interactive Exhibits:

Dive into a geothermal world with Geoenergy NI’s Virtual Reality experience.

Master the art of weather forecasting with Barra Best and try your own greenscreen weather presentation.

Animate yourself using AI with Kainos.

Explore the cosmos in Armagh Planetarium’s mobile planetarium.

Engage with Nerve Centre, Ulster University, Water NI, Wild Ireland, Bat Conservation Ireland, OCN, Food Standards Agency, and Sperrin Metal through hands-on activities that showcase the diverse facets of science and technology.

Don’t miss this opportunity to bring science to life in a fun and engaging way! The Foyle Science Showcase is where curiosity meets discovery.

The Foyle Science Showcase
2024-02-24 10:00 - 16:00 | Foyle Arena, 2, Limavady Rd,, Derry Londonderry, Northern Ireland, BT47 6JY, United Kingdom
Prepare for a day of excitement and exploration at the Foyle Science Showcase! Delight in mind-bending science shows, immersive exhibits, and interactive activities that promise to inspire the next generation of scientists and innovators. From captivating illusions to virtual reality experiences, this event is a celebration of curiosity and discovery.
Science Shows:

That’s Non-Sense by Braintastic: Witness the magic of multi-sensory tricks and visual illusions.

The Magical Science and Engineering Show: Join Scientific Sue for a funny and thought-provoking ‘Magic Show’ with a wacky combination of science and drama.

Interactive Exhibits:

Dive into a geothermal world with Geoenergy NI’s Virtual Reality experience.

Master the art of weather forecasting with Barra Best and try your own greenscreen weather presentation.

Animate yourself using AI with Kainos.

Explore the cosmos in Armagh Planetarium’s mobile planetarium.

Engage with Nerve Centre, Ulster University, Water NI, Wild Ireland, Bat Conservation Ireland, OCN, Food Standards Agency, and Sperrin Metal through hands-on activities that showcase the diverse facets of science and technology.

Don’t miss this opportunity to bring science to life in a fun and engaging way! The Foyle Science Showcase is where curiosity meets discovery

Yasmin Ali - #IntroduceAGirlToEngineeringDay
2024-02-24 14:00 - 15:00 | Ulster Museum, Stranmillis Road, Belfast, Northern Ireland, BT7 1NG, United Kingdom
Yasmin Ali, an award-winning chartered engineer in the energy industry, champions renewable technologies, excels in science communication, and acknowledged as one of the top 50 female engineers for her impactful engagement efforts.
Yasmin is a chemical engineer and has worked in coal and gas fired power stations, oil and gas, district heating systems, and energy innovation, including production of hydrogen and energy efficiency in industry. Yasmin ‘fell’ into the field of chemical engineering by accident, and is now passionate about promoting engineering stories and careers to the public and young people.

Power Up - An Engineer's Adventure into Sustainable Energy
2024-02-25 13:30 - 14:30 | Ulster Museum, Stranmillis Road, Belfast, Northern Ireland, BT7 1NG, United Kingdom
We rarely think about the energy systems that prop up our existence. With hot water, lighting and digital entertainment all available at the flick of a switch, it’s easy to underestimate the vast global network that makes these things possible.
Growing up in Iraq, Yasmin Ali regularly experienced power cuts – ironic for a country rich in oil and sunshine. Now as an engineer working in energy, Yasmin has a deep appreciation for what these resources mean for our lives.
In Power Up she takes us on a journey across the globe to reveal the bigger picture, from solar panel farms shimmering in the desert to power stations hidden deep in the mountains. We discover where we get energy from, how it is moved and used around the world – and why we need to understand the whole system if we want to transition towards a clean, green future.
Power Up is a definitive picture of the intricate world that humanity has built, and a rallying cry to face the challenges of climate change using the power at our fingertips.

Marcus Du Sautoy - Around The World in 80 Games
2024-02-25 14:30 - 15:30 | Whitla Hall, QUB, Belfast, BT7 1NN
Spanning millennia, oceans and continents, countries and cultures, Around the World in 80 Games gleefully explores how mathematics and games have always been deeply intertwined. Marcus du Sautoy investigates how games provided the first opportunities for deep mathematical insight into the world, how understanding maths can help us play games better, and how both maths and games are integral to human psychology and culture.
For as long as there have been people, there have been games, and for nearly as long, we have been exploring and discovering mathematics. A grand adventure, Around the World in 80 Games teaches us not just how games are won, but how they, and the maths behind them, shape who we are.
About
Marcus du Sautoy has been named by the Independent on Sunday as one of the UK’s leading scientists, has written extensively for the Guardian, The Times and the Daily Telegraph and has appeared on Radio 4 on numerous occasions. In 2008 he was appointed to Oxford University’s prestigious professorship as the Simonyi Chair for the Public Understanding of Science, a post previously held by Richard Dawkins.

Data Sharing for Sustainable Transport
2024-04-17 12:00 - 13:00 | Online
Working towards a greener planet with data-driven approaches.
Join Anaeko for their next webinar as they discuss the strategies and approaches through data discovery and data analytics that can help achieve your transport sustainability goals.
Explore the transformative power of data in the transport industry. Discover real-world success stories of risk reduction, enhanced services, & cost savings through rapid data discovery. Join Anaeko to unlock a new era of transportation innovation.
Anaeko welcomes David Crangle, from Simplicity Group, as joint speaker for this webinar. David will speak around using vehicle CCTV and telematics to drive sustainability and achieve cost efficiencies.
About Simplicity Group
Simplicity Group is Ireland’s Premium Provider for award-winning fleet management software Bridgestone Webfleet Telematics and MANTIS vehicle cameras. The connected system provides real-time data, in one centrally located platform, alerting users to various factors such as:
– Driver behaviour
– Vehicle Incidents
– Proactive vehicle maintenance checks
– Tachograph compliance
– CO2 monitoring
– And more
It is the industry-leading approach to streamline operations, enhance security, and reduce administrative time for fleets in transportation.

Health Tech Spring Conference
2024-04-29 13:30 - 2024-04-30 17:30 | Titanic Belfast Building, 1 Olympic Way, Queen's Road, Titanic Quarter, Belfast, Northern Ireland, BT3 9EP, United Kingdom
Hosted by the Health Innovation and Research Alliance NI (HIRANI), Health Tech Spring is a two-day conference taking place in Belfast on 29 & 30 April 2024.

With local and global partners, the conference will focus on two strands; digital ecosystems to integrate diagnostics and therapeutics; and community people-centred design to accelerate innovation and adoption of health technology.
Following on from a sold-out summit last year, HIRANI have expanded the event into a two-day conference which will include a “Life Sciences, Life Support” event for businesses who provide support services to the life science industry. With Innovation zones and pitching events, global keynotes and local thought leaders, Health Tech Spring promises to be an iconic conference hosted in the Titanic Building.

Innovate UK: The Games x TV Formats Exchange
2024-05-08 10:30 - 16:30 | London
Join the Creative Catalyst Peer Network for an inspiring day to explore the intersection of the gaming and TV industries.
Overview
Please note this is a Creative Catalyst member priority event. The members of the Creative Catalyst Peer Network have priority during registration. If you are a non-member and are interested in joining, please submit your registration, and a member of our team will get back to you to confirm the space availability.
The Games x TV Formats Exchange is a one-day ‘hands-on’ workshop that aims to foster a deeper understanding and spark potential collaborations between UK factual entertainment businesses and video games developers.
By combining the expertise of both industries, we aim to generate innovative and compelling concepts for innovative media consumption on various platforms like ‘fast channels’ and streaming services.
About the event
Through attending, you’ll understand the business models, financing structures, and mechanics of the unscripted TV and video games sectors, and identify how you might collaborate across these sectors to create groundbreaking content for multiple platforms.
GUEST SPEAKERS TO BE CONFIRMED SOON!
Schedule
Morning

Knowledge Sharing: Presentations on the business models, financing structures, and mechanics of the unscripted TV and video games sectors.
Panel Discussion: A panel of industry experts from games and TV, including online contributors via video link, will facilitate a dialogue on the learnings, synergies, and opportunities in both sectors.

Afternoon

Innovate UK Funding and Investment Overview
Collaboration Session: Participants will be grouped into mixed teams of games developers and TV execs to ideate potential crossover concepts.

Why you should attend?
By attending the Games x TV Formats Exchange, you will:

Gain valuable insights into collaborative innovation
Hear from industry leaders
Access unique networking opportunities

Who can attend?

Companies and individuals from the gaming and TV sectors looking to understand collaboration opportunities.
Creative industry professionals interested in exploring new content creation avenues.
Anyone interested in the innovative potential at the intersection of games and TV.

Note: This event is specifically designed for professionals in the creative, gaming, and TV industries.
It is not suitable for academia, Research Technology Organisations (RTOs), or government/NGOs.
Why it matters now?
Several recent collaborations demonstrate the potential of this cross-industry approach, such as Destination X – combining the appeal of Twitch streamer favourite GeoGuessr with 10 participants in a 10 x 75′-90′ reality programme or The Traitors, based on popular game Mafia (whose mechanics were later built into the pandemic hit game Among Us) with the charm of mysterious host Claudia Winkleman.
These examples highlight how combining the creativity and business acumen of both industries can generate compelling content that appeals to today’s diverse and dynamic viewer base.

SheVentures: The Island Edition
2024-05-20 09:00 - 2024-05-21 16:00 | Lusty Beg, Lusty Beg, Kesh, Enniskillen, BT93 8AD
SheVentures: The Island Edition is set to be a transformative experience for women founders in Ireland. A carefully curated programme packed with inspiring speakers will explore the themes of leadership, resilience and tenacity – core ingredients for success as a woman founder. Leaning into the years of collective experience brought together on Lusty Beg Island, we’ll share know-how and lessons learned – there’s no gatekeeping here! – as well as practical investment insights to help women founders like you to build and grow indigenous and global businesses and communities.

TechFoundHer AI Roadshow including première screening of SHOW HER THE MONEY
2024-05-22 14:00 - 19:30 | The Mac, 10 Exchange Street, West, Belfast, Northern Ireland, BT1 2NJ, United Kingdom
TechFoundHer is hosting the AI Roadshow – a mini-summit which is all about connecting and getting inspired about the power of AI and women tech trailblazers!. There’s an AI Revolution underway and we need to make sure women are leading as founders, innovators and thinkers.
The TechFoundHer AI Roadshow includes a one off screening of LA produced award winning movie SHOW HER THE MONEY and a panel discussion with producer Catherine Gray and investor Wendy Ryan over from the USA for the event. This is your chance to connect with women investors commited to supporting women and other diversity founders.
TechFoundHer is on a mission to enable more women to start and lead tech companies. It’s time to become part of the AI revolution. It’s time to invest in women.
Key Takeaways:
· Busting Tech Myths. Tech has no gender. Let’s bust myths and obstacles and learn practical ’how- to’ takeaways on unlocking the potential of AI tech for product innovation.
· Meet the AI Revolutionaries – women leading the way and harnessing the power of AI to create a new and better world. Panel discussion.
· Show Her The Money – let’s demystify venture capital and explore together how we change the status quo. Women entrepreneurs are receiving less than 2% of venture capital funding and this needs to change.

Growth and productivity conference for Fermanagh and Omagh
2024-05-23 09:30 - 13:30 | Lough Erne Resort, Beleek Rd, Enniskillen, Co. Fermanagh, BT93 7ED
The conference will focus on the future of the local economy with the aim of boosting growth and productivity
Fermanagh and Omagh District Council’s business conference, ‘The Future of our Local Economy’, will focus on boosting growth and productivity, and achieving regional balance.
The event, which is open to all businesses, will be hosted by Fermanagh and Omagh District Council’s Chair, Councillor Thomas O’Reilly.
The Conference Keynote Speaker Ian Snowden, Interim Permanent Secretary for the Department for the Economy, will outline the Department’s Economic Vision, which has four inter-related objectives:

increasing the number of good jobs
raising productivity
promoting regional balance
reducing carbon emissions

A variety of other speakers will also be in attendance at the event to discuss the economic strengths and opportunities in the Fermanagh and Omagh District.
The MC for the event will be journalist Louise Cullen.
Find out more and register for the Future of our Local Economy conference.

NI Women in STEM Conference 2024
2024-05-24 09:00 - 17:00 | Mandela Hall, 77 University Road, Belfast, BT7 1NF
Women in STEM Society are hosting the first Women in STEM NI Conference! They will be welcoming inspirational women from across the industry including, Sinead Molloy (She Built It NI), Katrina Thompson (Artemis Technologies) as well as academics from across QUB.
On the day you can expect:
– Breakfast and lunch
– key speakers
– panel discussions
– networking opportunities
– industry professionals and academics
– fun activities and workshops
This event is open to everyone and tickets for students are discounted to £5.

Resource Matching Workshop at Omagh Enterprise Centre
2024-06-06 09:00 - 13:00 | Omagh Enterprise Company, Great Northern Road, Omagh, Northern Ireland, BT78 5LU, United Kingdom
International Synergies Northern Ireland are excited to host another resource-matching workshop and networking session.

This FREE event, in partnership with Invest Northern Ireland, will be held at Omagh Enterprise Centre, Great Northern Road, BT78 5LU.
Registration will be from 9.00 with the Resource Matching session until 1:00pm.
At International Synergies Northern Ireland’s Resource-Matching Workshop, we believe that one company’s waste can be another’s treasure. This event is designed to bring together businesses of all sizes and industries to list their underutilised resources and material needs. By connecting these resources with companies looking for them, we aim to create a sustainable and mutually beneficial solution.
During the workshop, you’ll have the opportunity to network with like-minded individuals and explore potential partnerships and synergies that can lead to cost savings, reduced environmental impact, and increased operational efficiency. Whether you have pallets and timber, steel off-cuts, cardboard, vegetable mulch, used furniture, plastic containers or any other resource, this event will provide a platform for you to find innovative ways to re-purpose them.
Here’s what you can expect at the Resource-Matching Workshop:

Engaging presentations on the principles of the circular economy and the benefits of resource matching.
Facilitated resource-matching sessions to help you identify and list your available resources in terms of both HAVES and WANTS
Networking opportunities to connect with other businesses and explore resource-matching synergies.
Expert guidance from our resource-matching team on implementing circular practices and integrating sustainability into your operations.
A chance to contribute to a greener future and make a positive impact on our local economy.

This event is completely FREE to attend, but space is limited, so reserve your ticket now to secure your spot. Tickets will be allocated on a first come, first served basis. Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to transform waste into valuable resources and create a more sustainable business ecosystem.
This project is part-funded by the UK Government through the Shared Prosperity Fund.

HealthTech at CPI roadshow - Belfast
2024-06-18 09:30 - 16:30 | Grand Central Hotel, Beford Street, Belfast, BT2 7FF, United Kingdom
The CPI HealthTech team are hosting the Belfast roadshow event, in partnership with Health Innovation Research Alliance Northern Ireland (HIRANI).
This event will feature engaging sessions covering the investment ecosystem in the UK and Northern Ireland, including the NI Life and Health Science Launchpad, as well as assistance with grant funding applications and navigating the complex regulatory landscape.
CPI’s experts, as well as partners and companies they’ve worked with will be on hand to answer your burning questions in engaging panel discussions around accelerating products to market within HealthTech and MedTech.
The event will also dive into specific technical sessions on medical device development, In vitro diagnostics, and wearables, as well as covering HealthTech market trends backed by our research in the Innovate UK-funded Health Technology Regulatory and Innovation Programme (HealthTRIP).
The event will conclude with a drinks reception and networking session, sponsored by HIRANI. The full agenda for this event will be released in the coming weeks.
If you are an SME or startup looking for clear advice on regulatory issues, access to funding and grants, or just general support with the question of ​“what next?”, this is the event for you!
To register for this event, simply follow the link and fill out the short form . If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to CPI’s events team.
Attendance limit – two people per company/​workplace.

Devolution at 25: Productivity and skills
2024-06-21 09:00 - 23:00 | Mark Pigott Lecture Theatre, Riddel Hall Student Hub, Queens University, 85 Stranmillis Road, BELFAST, BT9 5EE, United Kingdom
The Economics Observatory is holding a series of events to mark 25 years of devolution. The chief aim of these events is to be forward looking and stimulate debate as to how we create prosperous Northern Irish, Scottish, and Welsh economies.
The theme of the Belfast event, on Friday 21 June, is productivity and skills. It will take place from 9am to 11am (with refreshments available from 8.30am) and will be hosted by the Northern Ireland Productivity Forum.
The event will consist of two roundtables focusing on skills and productivity in Northern Ireland and the two other devolved nations.

Lough Neagh: Blue Green Algae Phase 1 SBRI- Online Information Event
2024-08-14 10:30 - 12:00 | Online
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.

Digital Catapult Day of Photonics
2024-10-21 13:00 - 16:30 | Queens Film Theatre, 20 University Square, Belfast, BT7 1PA, United Kingdom
Smart Nano NI Innovation Programme Launch

Flummoxed by photonics and what it means? Join us at Queen’s Film Theatre to mark the globally celebrated Day of Photonics, in partnership with the Smart Nano NI consortium. As we accelerate the practical application of deep tech in manufacturing, it’s time to highlight how industrial photonics can help optimise production, improve efficiency and resilience, and facilitate greater automation.
This event will see the launch of the latest Smart Nano NI Innovation Programme – a Technology Access Programme that will connect industry to a unique combination of experts, cutting-edge equipment and facilities in photonics and future networks.
Attendees will hear how the programme can accelerate their manufacturing projects, improve supply chain resilience, and bring their technological visions to life through deep tech solutions.
To shine a light on the application of photonics, attendees will also learn more about the benefits of deep tech innovations from manufacturers and technology providers across Northern Ireland—ranging from the use of technologies such as machine vision, optical sensors and laser scanners to inspect products, refine designs and monitor water quality.
Attendees will also hear how members of Smart Nano consortium are developing the latest in integrated photonic technologies to enable a range of groundbreaking applications.
We look forward to seeing you there!
Smart Nano NI is a Northern Ireland consortium collaborating to develop game-changing advanced prototyping and smart manufacturing methods to deliver new technologies. The consortium shares a niche capability around nano manufacturing and world-leading knowledge in photonics. The consortium has been awarded £42.4m UK Research and Innovation’s Strength in Places Fund. The total project value including leveraged funding from other sources is £63.9m. Our collaboration is aimed at driving self-sustaining local industry and economic growth through research and innovation.

Who should attend?

Established startups or SMEs seeking to upskill in industrial photonics.
Those working with photonics technology, together with businesses looking to learn more about photonics.
Policy makers and government representatives.
Academics and researchers.

Why attend?

Learn about the upcoming photonics and future networks Technology Access Programme.
Hear from past programme participants on the benefits of the programme.
Gain insights on how photonics technologies can drive value and boost sustainability efforts across various industries.
Network with peers and industry experts.

SBRI: Ending Violence Against Women and Girls Phase 1 Information Event
2024-10-22 09:30 - 11:00 | Online
Ending Violence Against Women and Girls SBRI Phase 1 Challenges launch
Register for this online information session on 22nd October and hear about the launch of two concurrent and complementary SBRI challenges being issued by Ending Violence Against Women and Girls (EVAWG) within The Executive Office (TEO).
Ending all forms of violence, abuse, and harm against women and girls is one of the most pressing challenges facing our society today. Violence, abuse and harm against women and girls happens everywhere, every day and affects how women and girls live, work, and socialise. It cuts across all generations, all communities, and all spheres of our society.
EVAWG is a priority for the NI Executive, which has recently launched a Strategic Framework 2024-31 and first Delivery Plan 2024-2026. There is something everyone can do to help and we want to see how innovative ideas, and new solutions can influence change.
As part of the response to this, two phase 1 SBRI challenges have been launched to explore potential solutions to assist in the eradication of this prevalent issue. These challenges are open to private companies, professionals and social enterprises alike. Consortium bids are welcome.
Challenge 1 invites suppliers to identify ways in which digital platforms can be used to improve the detection and reporting of violence against women and girls. Suppliers will also be asked to explore how digital platforms can be used to counter misinformation on this subject.
Full challenge details can be found here.
Challenge 2 invites suppliers to use innovative methods to increase and improve the physical and psychological safety from violence, abuse and harm of women and girls in all settings.
Full challenge details can be found here.
Funding
Up to 3 applicants will be selected to develop proofs of concept for each challenge.
A total funding package of £225K per challenge has been secured via the Department for Economy (DfE). It is expected that each supplier will receive funding of up to £75k for phase 1.
The competition process is being managed on behalf of The Executive Office (TEO) by the Small Business Research Initiative (SBRI), part of Strategic Investment Board (SIB) and TEO is the contracting body in this procurement.
The application process for phase 1 is now open and will close on Monday 4th November at 5pm (GMT).
It is anticipated that phase 1 will run through to 31st March 2025.
The online information event aims to provide potential suppliers with further detail on:

Context and details of the SBRI challenges
Challenge timelines
Overview of the SBRI process
Explanations of eligibility requirements and how to apply
Q&A session for potential suppliers

Full competition details, criteria and application form are available on the SimplyDo platform

Horizon Europe Roadshow: Information, Networking and Collaboration for Success – Northern Ireland
2024-10-24 09:30 - 16:30 | lagan valley island, 1, The Island, Lisburn, bt27 4rl, United Kingdom
Horizon Europe is the world’s largest collaborative research programme worth £80bn+ over 7 years (from 2021). It is aimed at driving research excellence, fostering innovation and tackling global challenges through collaborative projects and funding opportunities. As an associated country, all UK organisations can benefit from Horizon Europe funding.
Join Innovate UK in collaboration with the Department for the Economy, Invest NI, Ulster University, Queens University Belfast, the Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute (AFBI), and the Department for Science Innovation and Technology (DSIT) for an exciting in-person networking and information event to learn, connect and discuss the Horizon Europe collaborative research and innovation opportunities that can accelerate your innovative projects. Discover how Horizon Europe has transformed ideas into successful projects across various sectors, and how yours could be next.
Featuring speakers from across government, academia and industry, this event will highlight the importance of Horizon Europe to both the public and private sectors while showcasing firsthand experiences from those who have been through the process.
Who should attend?
This event is aimed at researchers and innovative businesses from all sectors seeking to collaborate and realise their research ambitions with Horizon Europe funding. The event focus will be on information for newcomers to the Horizon Europe programme with more in-depth insights for more experienced participants.
Why should you attend?
The event will offer you the opportunity to:

Engage with Horizon Europe experts, and get first-hand information
Ask direct questions to the National Contact Points (NCPs) and Northern Ireland Contact Points (NICPs) in breakout sessions
Hear from successful participants
Connect and share your ideas with potential partners via in-person networking
Learn the most up to date news and opportunities on Horizon Europe
We will follow-up with further dedicated activities and events to continue directly engaging with our European stakeholder audience.

Reserve your place now so you don’t miss this exciting event! We look forward to seeing you in-person.
