Ireland has approved a record €159 million in funding under the latest round of the Disruptive Technologies Innovation Fund (DTIF), marking one of the State’s most significant investments in next‑generation research and commercial innovation. The announcement follows the approval of seven additional projects worth €39 million, bringing the total number of funded initiatives under Call 7 to 27.
AI, Healthcare and Climate Tech Lead New Funding Round
The newly supported projects — each receiving between €2.9 million and €9.1 million — span high‑tech healthcare, artificial intelligence, sustainable agriculture and advanced communications. Government officials say the investments are designed to accelerate Ireland’s technological competitiveness while strengthening collaboration between SMEs, multinationals and research institutions.
Among the standout initiatives are AI‑powered healthcare platforms, faster diagnostic tools for colorectal cancer, and sustainable livestock systems aimed at reducing agricultural emissions. Other projects include quantum‑enabled solutions for energy and materials science, and greener mobile‑network technologies designed to cut energy consumption.
Government Positions Innovation as Core to Economic Strategy
Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment Peter Burke TD said the projects will help Ireland meet climate obligations, advance digital transformation and support the development of green and health technologies. He described the Call 7 awards as “pivotal” to maintaining Ireland’s global competitiveness in an increasingly innovation‑driven economy.
Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science James Lawless TD highlighted the strength of industry‑academic partnerships emerging from the fund, noting that the DTIF helps ensure graduates with specialised expertise are matched with high‑value roles in cutting‑edge sectors.
Enterprise Ireland: A Strategic Moment for Irish Innovation
Enterprise Ireland CEO Jenny Melia said the Call 7 awards demonstrate Ireland’s capacity to lead in transformative technologies, from AI‑driven healthcare to quantum research and sustainable agriculture. She encouraged industry and research partners to deepen collaboration to maximise commercial impact and support high‑value job creation.
A Growing Pipeline of High‑Impact Projects
Call 7, launched in 2024, received 41 applications, with 27 ultimately approved following evaluation by international expert panels. The DTIF — a €500 million fund established under the National Development Plan — aims to accelerate the development and commercial deployment of disruptive technologies by fostering strong industry‑research partnerships.
Flagship projects include:
- QUBIC — quantum technologies targeting challenges in energy, climate and pharmaceuticals
- FutureLives — agricultural innovations to cut emissions and improve nutrient efficiency
- NAIRA — greener mobile‑network technologies designed to reduce energy use
Together, these initiatives reinforce Ireland’s ambition to position itself as a global hub for next‑generation technologies while supporting climate goals, energy efficiency and long‑term economic resilience.
