Northern Ireland’s science and technology sectors are set to receive a significant boost with over £30 million in funding from the UK Government’s modern Industrial Strategy.
This investment aims to support local jobs and economic growth, focusing on innovative tech projects such as cybersecurity and AI, alongside additional funding for Queen’s University Belfast’s Cybersecurity AI Tech Hub.
Boosting Northern Ireland’s High-Tech Industries
The UK Government has announced a substantial investment of over £30 million into Northern Ireland’s science and technology sectors.
This funding is part of the modern Industrial Strategy aimed at fostering economic growth and job creation in high-tech industries. Industry Minister Sarah Jones visited Belfast to unveil this initiative, which includes support for innovative projects in cybersecurity and artificial intelligence (AI).
This investment builds on successful UK-wide pilots targeting sectors like advanced manufacturing and creative industries.
The announcement also includes an additional £2 million allocated to Queen’s University Belfast’s Cybersecurity AI Tech Hub, further cementing Northern Ireland’s position as a leader in cutting-edge research and development.
Opportunities for Growth
- £30 million investment targets Northern Ireland’s cybersecurity sector, home to 100 businesses and 2,750 jobs.
- Additional £2 million supports Queen’s University Belfast’s Cybersecurity AI Tech Hub.
- Thales awarded a £1.6 billion missile contract, creating 200 new jobs locally.
- Ionic Technologies received an £11 million grant for rare earth magnetic recycling supporting electric vehicle transition.
- An Enhanced Investment Zone is being designed to reduce growth barriers and offer new incentives.
The Human Impact of the Investments
This significant financial commitment signals a major step forward for Northern Ireland’s high-tech industries. For professionals working within these sectors, it means increased funding opportunities, potential job creation, and growth in research capabilities.
Businesses like Thales and Ionic Technologies stand to benefit directly from this initiative by enhancing their capacity and competitiveness on the global stage.
Quote from the Minister
UK Government Industry Minister Sarah Jones said:
“From defence and cyber to the creative industries Northern Ireland’s economy has great strengths, which is why I’m in Belfast speaking to businesses about how our modern Industrial Strategy can help them grow and create well-paid jobs for local people.”
“This includes millions for Northern Ireland’s cyber and tech sectors, £1.6 billion supporting Thales to make missiles for Ukraine, and an Enhanced Investment Zone to tear down barriers to growth and boost prosperity across Northern Ireland, as part of our Plan for Change.”
International Implications
The UK’s investment in Northern Ireland not only strengthens local industries but also underscores its strategic role in global security through initiatives like the missile contract with Thales supporting Ukraine’s defence efforts.
This move may be viewed positively by allied nations as it demonstrates the UK’s commitment to bolstering defence capabilities while fostering technological innovation.
Additional Reading
A Parting Shot
This substantial investment marks a pivotal moment for Northern Ireland’s high-tech sectors, promising enhanced job opportunities and economic growth.
By focusing on cybersecurity, AI, advanced manufacturing, and green technologies like electric vehicles, the region is poised to become a hub of innovation that aligns with global trends toward sustainability.
Sources: UK Government, Thales Group, Ionic Technologies, Department for Business and Trade, Northern Ireland Office, Sarah Jones MP and The Rt Hon Hilary Benn MP.
Prepared by Ivan Alexander Golden, Founder of THX News™, an independent news organization delivering timely insights from global official sources. Combines AI-analyzed research with human-edited accuracy and context.
