Ireland’s first DisrupTech Summit welcomed over 600 disruptive tech leaders, researchers and investors this month to learn more about how Disruptive Technologies are improving people’s lives, tackling global challenges and inspiring a better future.
The €500 million Disruptive Technologies Innovation Fund, established under Project Ireland 2040, supports projects that have the potential to create new products, services or business processes which can significantly disrupt existing markets.
Over €371 million has been awarded to 104 projects to date with €58.8 million awarded last year alone.
'Innovative Ideas'
"The strength of these projects lies in the ability of the individual partners to collaborate, bringing complementary expertise and knowledge to addressing societal challenges," said Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Peter Burke.
"This event has given many potential applicants both the information and opportunity needed to find prospective partners, with a shared vision and bring their innovative ideas to life."
Collaboration
The event focused on companies and Irish research institutions working together to deliver change which is disrupting markets and industry practices.
Expert panellists emphasised how Ireland is investing at scale in Disruptive Technology Research & Development, enabling companies to compete internationally and subsequently leverage further investment and growth.
'Incredible Potential'
"DisrupTech 2024 has demonstrated the incredible potential of disruptive technologies to transform industries and create new opportunities for growth and innovation in Ireland," said Enterprise Ireland Head of Research, Marina Donohoe.
"Through the Disruptive Technologies Innovation Fund, we are committed to fostering collaborations between industry and research to drive impactful results for the economy and society."
Applications
The seventh round of funding, DTIF Call 7, launched in May this year and is currently open for applications.
Applications are encouraged across sectors including ICT; Food; Energy, Climate Action & Sustainability; Manufacturing and Materials; Business Services and Processes as well as Health and Wellbeing projects.
