Funded innovation support combining expert guidance with practical learning
Innovate+ offers fully funded, practical innovation support to eligible small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across Northern Ireland and the border counties. The programme is designed to help businesses:
- strengthen leadership and management skills
- explore digital technology and artificial intelligence (AI)
- access practical workshops and masterclasses
- access specialist expertise, student talent and internships
Detailed technical support is also available for digital innovation, operational improvements and new product or service development.
How Innovate+ works
When businesses apply to Innovate+, the engagement starts with a short Innovation Audit. You then have a one-to-one Business Review with an Innovation Officer to discuss your business, its priorities and where support could make the biggest difference.
Based on this, you receive a tailored Innovation Management Plan. This sets out practical next steps and identifies the Innovate+ support most relevant to your business, such as workshops, expert advice or student placements. You can also join the Innovate+ network to connect with other businesses across the region.
Who can apply
Innovate+ is open to eligible SMEs registered in Northern Ireland and the border counties of Ireland (Donegal, Sligo, Leitrim, Cavan, Monaghan and Louth). Your business must have been trading for at least two years and meet the programme’s SME criteria.
Check your eligibility and apply for Innovate+ support.
Innovate+ is a collaboration delivered by a cross-border partnership between Atlantic Technological University, Catalyst, Queen’s University Belfast and Ulster University.
The project is supported by PEACEPLUS, a programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body, and co-funded by the European Union, the Government of the United Kingdom, the Northern Ireland Executive and the Government of Ireland.
Source: NIBUSINESSINFO
