Northern Ireland’s science and technology sectors are set to receive a major boost from the UK Government’s modern Industrial Strategy, with at least £30 million earmarked for innovative tech projects. The funding aims to strengthen local jobs, promote economic growth, and support key industries of the future, including cybersecurity, advanced manufacturing, and creative industries.
Industry Minister Sarah Jones visited Belfast to celebrate the investment and highlight other initiatives, including £2 million for Queen’s University Belfast’s Cybersecurity AI Tech Hub. She also met with leaders from top regional companies such as Artemis Technologies, Thales, Harland & Wolff, and Ionic Technologies to discuss how the Industrial Strategy can support local businesses and create high-quality jobs.
The new funding will complement previous successful pilots across the UK, which attracted over £140 million in private investment and created hundreds of jobs. In Northern Ireland, the thriving cybersecurity sector—home to 100 businesses and 2,750 jobs—is expected to benefit significantly, positioning the region at the forefront of cutting-edge technology.
Minister Jones emphasized the government’s commitment to local economic growth, highlighting support for defence, cybersecurity, creative industries, and the establishment of an Enhanced Investment Zone aimed at removing barriers to business expansion. Projects such as Thales’ £1.6 billion missile contract to support Ukraine and Ionic Technologies’ rare earth magnetic recycling initiative exemplify the diverse areas benefiting from the Industrial Strategy.
The investment package is part of a broader strategy to strengthen Northern Ireland’s fastest-growing sectors. Ministerial visits also included Harland & Wolff’s Belfast shipyard and discussions on further opportunities for collaboration, investment, and local growth.
This announcement builds on recent government commitments, including £310 million for the Belfast Region City Deal, which supports projects like Studio Ulster and initiatives to tackle paramilitarism. Additionally, an upcoming Enhanced Investment Zone is planned to provide further funding, tax incentives, and investment support to accelerate growth across the region.
The government will continue to showcase Northern Ireland’s innovation and creative sectors through events like the Made in the UK, Sold to the World Roadshow in Belfast on 11 September, offering local businesses access to global buyers, workshops, and international networking opportunities.
Collectively, these initiatives demonstrate the UK Government’s ongoing commitment to fostering innovation, supporting high-tech industries, and driving economic growth in Northern Ireland.
