Matrix

Resource Matching Workshop at Omagh Enterprise Centre
2024-06-06 09:00 - 13:00 (Europe/London) | 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.

Responsible Innovation Conference
2024-11-29 | Belfast Harbour Commissioners, Harbour Office, Corporation Square, Belfast, BT1 3AL
The inaugural Responsible Innovation Conference will is a new event that will bring together a diverse mix of professionals, academics, policymakers, and civic leaders, dedicated to shaping the future of innovation in an ethical, sustainable, and socially conscious manner.

This conference will explore the intersection of technology, society, and ethics, and will address critical topics including AI ethics, sustainable tech, corporate responsibility, and the circular economy and look at social impact, inclusive practices, regulatory frameworks, and more.

This event will be a forum that integrates ethical considerations, social responsibility, and sustainability into the development and application of new technologies and processes It will emphasize the importance of aligning innovation with societal needs and environmental stewardship, ensuring technological advancements benefit humanity while minimizing negative impacts.
The conference aims to be an essential gathering for anyone committed to steering innovation in a direction that benefits society and the environment, ensuring that technological advancements are aligned with ethical standards and sustainability goals.
Scientists, academics, corporate innovators, C-Suite execs responsible for delivering new lines of business, researchers, and social entrepreneurs, will all find value here

Maths Mile - Belfast
2025-02-12 10:00 - 2025-02-23 17:00 | Belfast
Maths is everywhere! Join us for a maths filled mile around Belfast City Centre stopping at the perfect spots to do some problem solving with your family. Explore the city centre through your mathematical minds any time during the festival.
We’ve worked with clever mathematicians to make sure that these problems are perfect for primary school children. Take a picture of your completed map and email it to belfastmathsmile@gmail.com to be in for a chance to win a prize!

The Ethics of AI - Navigating the Future
2025-02-12 19:00 - 20:00 | Crescent Arts Centre, 2-4 University Road, Belfast, BT7 1NH, United Kingdom
Join Dr. Charlotte Blease, health informaticist, Holly Toner (Data & AI Ethics Tech Lead, Kainos) for an engaging discussion on the ethical challenges of artificial intelligence. Explore how AI impacts society and decision-making.
Chaired by Rebecca Walsh, Matrix Panel member and Director & Head of Service Design at Big Motive.

Stuff! How is it Made? with Maddie Moate
2025-02-13 11:00 - 14:00 | The Mac, 10 Exchange Street, West, Belfast, Northern Ireland, BT1 2NJ, United Kingdom
Straight off the pages of her book and onto the live stage, Maddie Moate brings you incredible facts and fascinating stories about the remarkable ways people around the world make and re-use STUFF!
Do you ever wonder where your stuff comes from, and what happens to it when you’re finished with it? Did you know that you can make paper out of elephant poo? And plastic packaging out of seaweed?!
With readings from her book, demos, and lots of audience interaction, Maddie will inspire young minds to think about the ingenious ways we can make, use, and reuse the stuff around us.
About
Maddie Moate is a BAFTA winning presenter and YouTuber, passionate about curiosity and inspiring children with the wonders of the world. She is the host of the BAFTA nominated TV series “Maddie’s Do You Know?”, Sony Music’s podcast “Maddie’s Sound Explorers” and presented BBC Earth’s “Earth Unplugged”. Maddie’s YouTube channel is full of fun, family-focused science videos that have taken her on curious adventures around the world. Her channel is also home to the wildly popular series “Let’s Go Live with Maddie and Greg”, a live family science show which helped countless families with homeschooling over lockdown.

Artificial Imagination with Jocelyn Burnham
2025-02-13 19:00 - 20:00 | Nerve Centre, 7-8 Magazine St, Derry, Derry/Londonderry, BT48 6HJ, United Kingdom
Join AI expert Jocelyn Burnham for an energetic tour of ‘creative’ AI. Discover how AI merges with human creativity to revolutionise art, music, and learning.
Drawing from work with Tate, RADA, and Shakespeare’s Globe, Jocelyn showcases AI innovations and offers insights on starting your own AI experiments.

How To Survive in Space with Dr Dan & Dr Raph (Derry~Londonderry)
2025-02-15 14:00 - 15:00 | Nerve Centre, 7-8 Magazine St, Derry, Derry/Londonderry, BT48 6HJ, United Kingdom
CBBC’s Operation Ouch! presenters Dr Dan and Dr Raph bring the exhilarating experience of space adventure, space science and space medicine to Earth.
Get the whole family ready to embark on a thrilling journey through the cosmos as Dr Dan and Dr Raph take you on a galactic journey like no other! How to survive in Space will transport you to the furthest reaches of the universe, where you’ll learn about the latest breakthroughs in science and medicine.
With on stage cutting edge technology such as Live ULTRASONOGRAPHY with and gravity manipulating stunts, this show is not to be missed especially for kids who love science, space and learning!
The O Twins will also perform in The MAC, Belfast on Sunday 16 February.

How To Survive in Space with Dr Dan & Dr Raph (Belfast)
2025-02-16 11:00 - 14:00 | The Mac, 10 Exchange Street, West, Belfast, Northern Ireland, BT1 2NJ, United Kingdom
CBBC’s Operation Ouch! presenters Dr Dan and Dr Raph bring the exhilarating experience of space adventure, space science and space medicine to Earth.
Get the whole family ready to embark on a thrilling journey through the cosmos as Dr Dan and Dr Raph take you on a galactic journey like no other! How to survive in Space will transport you to the furthest reaches of the universe, where you’ll learn about the latest breakthroughs in science and medicine.
With on stage cutting edge technology such as Live ULTRASONOGRAPHY with and gravity manipulating stunts, this show is not to be missed especially for kids who love science, space and learning!
The O Twins will also perform in the Nerve Centre, Derry~Londonderry on Saturday 15 February.

NI Engineering Goes into Space
2025-02-18 10:30 - 12:30 | Armagh Observatory & Planetarium
Join the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, The Armagh Observatory & Planetarium and Robert Hill, Director of the NI Space Office, in an exploration of some of the technology companies in Northern Ireland that are engineering components for space vehicles and systems; thereby supporting our quest for knowledge and understanding of our home planet and the Universe.
Andor Technology and Space will showcase cutting edge cameras that are used in a wide range of astronomy applications from flying telescopes to solar astronomy; Springco will showcase the space exploration and research vehicles on which its products perform essential functions; Spirit Aerospace will showcase its Belfast and US Space programmes, and its high temperature protection systems and Queen’s University Propulsion Lab will showcase its involvement in rocketry.

FameLab - Northern Ireland Final
2025-02-18 19:00 - 22:00 | The Black Box, 18-22 Hill Street, Belfast, Northern Ireland, BT1 2LA, United Kingdom
Experience the thrilling showcase of scientific talent and communication at FameLab Northern Ireland’s live final, featuring finalists competing with charm, scientific expertise, and innovation in a three-minute window.

The night will be hosted by comedian and former FameLab Champion, Emer Maguire!
Our judging panel will be Professor Victoria Simms (Ulster University), Jonathan Stewart (British Council) Patricia O’Hagan (Deputy Chair of the MATRIX panel), Dr Aaron Monson (Previous FameLab NI winner) and Festival Director Sarah Jones!

Robo Bingo (Derry~Londonderry)
2025-02-21 20:00 - 22:30 | Nerve Centre, 7-8 Magazine St, Derry, Derry/Londonderry, BT48 6HJ, United Kingdom
Interactive Alt-Bingo For Introverts
Bingo meets tech. Join IT consultants, Lloyd and Pete in their interactive show for introverts. Expect robots, comedy and light-hearted gambling*. Put that dabber away! You play along on your (charged) phone, but in a fun way! At first you’ll be searching for numbers in a grid but 40 minutes later you’ll be helping our bingo robot capture amphibians.
If you don’t like bingo – come to this.
*Legally not real gambling, nothing of value to win. You are paying to see the comedy show.

Foyle Science Showcase
2025-02-22 10:00 - 13:00 | Foyle Arena, 2, Limavady Rd,, Derry Londonderry, Northern Ireland, BT47 6JY, United Kingdom
Join us at the Foyle Arena, Derry for an exhilarating day of discovery at the NI Science Festival 2025!
Witness the incredible “Big Maths Gameshow” with Kyle D. Evans, where humour meets the wonders of mathematics in an interactive spectacle for families.
Dive into the extremes of our planet with Mark Langtry in the enthralling “Limitless” science show.
Wander through interactive exhibits from the Nerve Centre, CCA, Food Standards Agency, W5’s Star Dome, Ulster University, Kainos, Loughs Agency, NI Water and more, including hands-on activities like invertebrate identification and digital game design.
Experience cutting-edge virtual reality, dive into water cycle experiments, and explore hidden sounds with sonic workshops.
It’s a perfect day for curious minds of all ages, packed with educational fun and inspirational activities!
FREE ENTRY

Robo Bingo (Belfast)
2025-02-22 20:00 - 22:30 | The Black Box, 18-22 Hill Street, Belfast, Northern Ireland, BT1 2LA, United Kingdom

FameLab training
2026-01-30 09:30 - 13:00 | Queen’s University Belfast – The Great Hall, University Road, Belfast, Northern Ireland, BT7 1NN, United Kingdom
FameLab is a prestigious competition to find the new voices of science, technology, engineering and maths.
Could it be you?
To find out more a training/information session is to be held on Friday 30 January for all applicants in preparation to take part in the Regional Final to be held on 17 February 2026 as part of the NI Science Festival.
Winners of the NI Regional Final will go on to compete at the UK final at the Cheltenham Science Festival in June 2026.
Previous winners include: Emer Maguire who won the regional final and then the UK final in 2015.
Dr Aaron Monson was NI’s winner in 2024 , and Dr Erin McAvoy won in 2025.
Find out more about FameLab International
Register now to attend the free training session

'Hack to the Future' 2050 - Hackathon
2026-02-21 08:45 - 21:00 | Ulster University Belfast, York Street, Belfast, Northern Ireland, BT15 1ED, United Kingdom
As part of the NI Science Festival, we warmly invite you to join the hackathon by Matrix NI at Ulster University, Belfast, on Saturday 21st February.
Be part of a vibrant community of innovators, technologists, and creative thinkers as we explore and design the future of Northern Ireland using
Matrix NI foresight reports as a guide.
Building and proposing innovative solutions to improve life for people in Northern Ireland in 2050.
How to take part?
You can participate as an individual or team, as a coder, designer, policymaker – you decide!
With 3 easy steps.
1. Select one of the ‘5 Future World ‘themes below
2. Agree an associated challenge to solve; and
3. Devise and present a creative solution.
Future World Themes:
1. Clean and Green
2. Health, Wellbeing and vitality
3. Joined up and connected
4. Safe, protected and secure
5. Inclusive and shared value
Please read ‘Future world’ narratives for some guidance and inspiration.
Judging criteria?

The degree of impact of the proposed solution in a selected world;
The degree of innovation and creativity; and
The potential for delivery (either commercial or not for profit).
Presentation impact

There will be a presentation/pitch to the judging panel for an overall winner and participants will also have the opportunity to vote for their chosen winner.
Registration free: Join us at the NI Science Festival

(Strictly 18+)

HTTF Hackathon Flyer
Hackathon agenda
Code of Conduct
