Queen's University Belfast has officially commenced construction on the expanded Momentum One Zero innovation centre in the Titanic Quarter.

A sod-cutting ceremony, attended by government, academic, and industry leaders, marks the next phase of growth for this premier digital innovation hub.

The project is a central element of the £70 million Belfast Region City Deal investment in digital innovation. Momentum One Zero operates as a business-led facility dedicated to advancing cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and wireless technologies. The current expansion is designed to provide purpose-built laboratories, secure computing environments, and collaborative spaces where researchers and industry partners can work together to commercialise high-tech solutions.

The centre is expected to be fully operational by the end of 2027. Once complete, it will act as a focal point for digital transformation across multiple sectors, including financial services, agri-food, health, and sustainability. The project is projected to deliver significant long-term economic growth and support the creation of more than 1,000 high-value jobs.

Professor Sir Ian Greer, President and Vice-Chancellor of Queen's University Belfast, said: "Momentum One Zero is a clear example of how Queen's is turning research excellence into economic impact. This expansion reflects the scale of ambition we have for digital innovation in Northern Ireland — supporting high-value jobs, strengthening our skills base, and ensuring that businesses here can compete and lead on a global stage."

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Economy Minister, Dr Caoimhe Archibald said: "Building on the north's capabilities and strengths, Momentum One Zero has the potential to transform the region into a global innovation destination in areas including cybersecurity, AI and digital health. It will substantially increase the volume and range of digital innovation taking place and develop skills to meet industry needs. It represents a significant achievement for Queen's University Belfast, the Belfast Region City Deal and the wider economy."

Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Tracy Kelly said: "Momentum One Zero will support the creation of high-value jobs across digital and deep-tech sectors, while developing the skills our people need to access those opportunities. It represents a major investment in Belfast's future as a city of innovation, opportunity and good jobs – and it shows what can be achieved through strong partnership with the UK Government, NI Government and the Belfast Region City Deal. With £44.8 million of City Deal investment towards the project, Momentum One Zero will deliver long-term economic growth, over a thousand new jobs, and a stronger, more confident Belfast for the future. A milestone moment for the city!"

Paul Murnaghan, Director, Devolved Nations, BT Business at BT and Chair of the Momentum One Zero Industry Advisory Board, commented: "Northern Ireland is accelerating its position as a hub for innovation and advanced technology, and specifically, Momentum One Zero is focused on breaking down barriers to innovation and driving the adoption of secure AI solutions. This expansion creates a dynamic environment where businesses, engineers, and researchers collaborate to solve real-world challenges. It will be instrumental in helping companies embrace advanced technologies, grow their talent base, and compete on a global stage."

The development aligns with Queen's University's broader innovation portfolio, joining the Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre (AMIC) and iREACH Health to foster inclusive economic development across the region.