The best of Northern Ireland's research and innovation sector have gathered in Lisburn to explore opportunities for collaboration and secure funding through the Horizon Europe program.

Horizon Europe, the world's largest research collaboration program with a value of over £80 billion, offers researchers, innovators, and businesses from across Northern Ireland the chance to apply for funding grants to support projects in various sectors, including health, clean energy, and digital infrastructure.

Securing Horizon Europe funding can position the UK at the forefront of cutting-edge technologies, driving job creation and economic growth. Northern Ireland has a proven track record of success, with over £81 million awarded to projects through its predecessor, Horizon 2020.

The roadshow provided researchers and innovative businesses at all stages of their careers with the opportunity to connect with experts who have experience in the Horizon Europe funding process. Participants could gain valuable insights, support for their applications, and network with like-minded innovators.

The event highlighted the potential for both public and private sectors in Northern Ireland to realise their research ambitions through Horizon Europe funding. By fostering collaboration and supporting innovation, the region can contribute significantly to the development of groundbreaking technologies and drive economic prosperity.

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UK Science Minister, Lord Vallance said: "The discoveries and innovations on display in Lisburn today demonstrate the potential that researchers in Northern Ireland have to make the most of the UK's association to Horizon. Their ideas are already attracting investment, driving  partnerships between some of the brightest minds from Europe, New Zealand, Canada and more.

"With more successful bids for Horizon funding, researchers from the public and private sector in Northern Ireland could come up with the solutions we need to kickstart economic growth and improve living standards."

Department for Science, Innovation and Technology Chief Scientific Advisor, Professor Chris Johnson said: "Having made Northern Ireland my home and working at one of its great universities, I know what the brilliant minds here are capable of, and I am pleased to be here today to hear of the ambitious projects that have already been brought to life thanks to funding from Horizon. This roadshow is a great opportunity for researchers, scientists and businesses in the region to hear from innovators who have been through the application process and succeeded.

"We want more researchers based in Northern Ireland to seize the benefits of Horizon Europe, to accelerate the discoveries that will boost our economy, and deliver new technologies that will improve all our lives."

An array of speakers from across government, including the Chief Scientific Advisors from both the UK Department of Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) and from the Northern Ireland Executive, are attending the roadshow. The roadshow which has been brought together in a collaboration between DSIT, Innovate UK, the Northern Ireland Government and Enterprise Northern Ireland.

Northern Ireland is already playing a big role in tackling the challenges facing the UK today, from driving cybersecurity through to seizing the opportunities of our push towards net zero.

Queen's University Belfast's Centre for Advanced Sustainable Energy is looking at ways we can build the UK as a net zero superpower, supported by £4.5 million from the Northern Ireland Executive. Grants awarded through the Horizon Europe programme could allow researchers to discover more in this area and ultimately help us protect our planet. 

Further information, including practical support on how to apply, is available on Innovate UK's website and UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) also host regular events that help guide businesses and researchers through the opportunities on offer and the application process.