Support for semiconductor and photonics innovation
The SPEAR Centre (Semiconductor Photonics Education and Research Centre) is a new research hub working to advance photonics and semiconductor technologies across the 12 counties in the Northern Ireland-Ireland cross-border region.
The Centre aims to help businesses explore and adopt photonics and AI-driven solutions to boost innovation and competitiveness.
Online information session
Interested businesses can join a free online event on Thursday 14 May 2026 to discover how the SPEAR Centre will support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
The 45-minute session (1pm-145pm) will provide
- an overview of the SPEAR Centre support for businesses
- insight into photonics and AI applications in industry
- details of upcoming regional roadshow workshops
The event is open to SMEs across all sectors who are interested in innovation and new technology adoption. As a PEACEPLUS-funded project, SPEAR is specifically focused on supporting businesses across the 12 counties of the cross-border region.
Register now for this online session.
The SPEAR Centre is led by Atlantic Technological University, in partnership with Ulster University and Tyndall National Institute at University College Cork. It is supported by the PEACEPLUS Programme, managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB).
First published 12 May 2026
