Businesses in Northern Ireland can access a range of resources to support their artificial intelligence (AI) projects, including funding, expert guidance, and training. Here are some key options.
Artificial Intelligence Collaboration Centre (AICC)
A £16.3 million initiative by Ulster University and Queen’s University Belfast, the AICC offers fully funded consultancy, AI expertise, and training to accelerate AI adoption. Read more about AICC’s support.
Digital Transformation Flexible Fund (DTFF)
This fund supports small and micro businesses in Northern Ireland to invest in advanced digital technologies, including AI. Grants range from £5,000 to £20,000, covering up to 70% of project costs. The next funding rounds opens in March 2025. Pre-briefing sessions start in February – find out more and register now.
Hartree Centre, Northern Ireland Hub
Part of the Hartree National Centre for Digital Innovation, this hub provides businesses with fully funded access to AI tools, computing resources, and technical support to improve productivity. It helps businesses adopt AI to drive innovation and competitiveness. Get in touch with the Hartree Centre NI Hub.
Invest Northern Ireland
Invest NI offers a range of funding, guidance, and support services to businesses in Northern Ireland looking to innovate. This includes helping companies across industries develop digitalisations strategies and adopt AI tools to boost productivity and competitiveness. Read about Invest NI’s support for business.
Go Succeed NI
Go Succeed NI runs regular events covering a range of relevant topics to help businesses in Northern Ireland navigate digital transformation, including AI adoption. These events are designed to provide insights, practical advice, and expert guidance on emerging technologies and industry trends. They offer valuable learning opportunities for businesses looking to stay competitive and innovative in a fast-changing environment. Check the latest schedule of Go Succeed NI business events.
Innovate UK BridgeAI
BridgeAI connects businesses to AI experts and resources at all stages of their AI journey. It offers tailored support, including scientific expertise, AI resources, and upskilling opportunities to ensure successful AI adoption. Explore current BridgeAI opportunities.
Digital Catapult
Digital Catapult helps businesses adopt AI responsibly by providing access to computing power, hardware, expertise, and mentoring. It also offers a tailored AI adoption toolkit with four assessments to benchmark your digital transformation, data readiness, and AI deployment.
Additional support
There are various other sources of support available depending on your business needs. For example, local councils in Northern Ireland may run targeted programmes and events focusing on digital skills and innovation. Support may also be available from Local Enterprise Agencies, as well as industry-specific bodies such as Tourism Northern Ireland, Screen Northern Ireland or Manufacturing NI.
Check our Business Support Finder and Events Finder regularly for the latest opportunities.
If you’re seeking support for broader research and development activity, explore a list of UK wide options and R&D grants available in Northern Ireland.
