What is the Technology Gateway Network?
Enterprise Ireland Technology Gateway Network is a programme in partnership with Technological Universities and Institutes of Technology co-financed by the Government of Ireland and the European Union through the ERDF Southern, Eastern & Midland Regional Programme 2021-27 and the Northern & Western Regional Programme 2021-27. Each Gateway provides an important service to Irish industry, not only within its own region but nationwide, by providing key assistance and expertise to companies with research, development, or innovation problems or projects across a broad range of sectors, focusing on key technology areas aligned to industry needs.
How can I work with the Network?
The Network is open to companies of any size so whether you’re a start-up, SME, or multinational, our dedicated Technology Gateway managers and staff are available to assist with all aspects of your R&D or Innovation project.
Do I need to be an Enterprise Ireland client?
No, the Technology Gateway Network is open to all Irish companies, you do not need to be a client of Enterprise Ireland to collaborate.
My project requirements are small, can I work with the Network?
Yes! Whether it is a small, relatively straightforward €1,500 project or a longer, more detailed €200,000 Innovation Partnership project, the Network will provide the relevant resources to complete your project on time and within budget.
How do I know which Gateway to contact?
The Network is designed so that you can discuss the initial investigative stages with your regional Gateway Manager. They will take you through the process, available funding options and arrange an introduction to the Gateway most suited to your project. However, if you have already identified the most suitable Gateway, you can contact the Gateway Manager directly.
What can I expect when working with a Gateway?
Within each Gateway, a Gateway Manager and a team of specific business development researchers and engineers act as the key contact points and manage the successful delivery of projects. The Technology Gateway network has the expertise of over 300 industry-focused researchers, with the specialist equipment and facilities of four Technological Universities, (ATU, MTU, TUD and TUS) and one Institute of Technology (DKIT), so there is a lot of advice and help on offer. Gateway Managers work closely with their Gateway team to ensure projects are delivered on time and on budget.
How should I prepare for my initial meeting with a Gateway?
Innovation can be daunting, but knowing your audience, researching the supports available and considering the positives gained, is a step in the right direction. If you are coming to the Network with a specific problem to be addressed, its useful to have as much background information as possible. This will allow the Gateway team to assess the best way forward. The team can also help you in drafting a project plan for your proposal and are happy to provide guidance and help at all stages of the process.
Can I avail of the resources of more than one Gateway at a time?
Yes, the unique selling point is our network structure. Our Gateways frequently work collaboratively on innovation projects. If your project requires the expertise of additional Gateways this will be organised by your lead Gateway manager.
Am I eligible to apply for funding?
The Network offers a range of Enterprise Ireland funding options to suit companies of all sizes. Current funding mechanisms available include Innovation Vouchers, Innovation Partnerships and the Agile Innovation Fund. Companies can also fund the research themselves. Some terms and conditions may apply in respect of some funding options but Gateway teams will explain in detail the requirements and process. Further information on all supports can be found here.
What is a Technology Gateway cluster?
Three Technology Gateway Clusters have been developed to enhance the level of collaboration within the Network. Since 2016 these industry focused research & development clusters have specialised in the areas of Internet of Things (Applied IoT), Engineering, Materials & Design (EMD Ireland) and Food & Beverage technologies (Irish Food Tech). The clusters provide a one stop shop for industry by providing access to research and engineering professionals, equipment and expertise through a single point of contact. The cluster can aid with greatly reducing time to market by providing the necessary resources and equipment to develop new and innovative near-to market solutions in a timely manner.
Companies wishing to collaborate with the Technology Gateway Network can contact the team for more information.