Industry clusters within the Enterprise Ireland Technology Gateway network, provides an ideal opportunity for Irish companies to engage with a wealth of expertise, experience, and knowledge in a variety of sectors.
EMD Ireland, a unique Engineering, Materials and Design cluster, consists of a collaboration of seven specialised Technology Gateways bringing together a variety of expertise, facilities and equipment for enterprises seeking Research, Development and Innovation knowledge. The cluster currently has expertise in fields such as energy, precision engineering, polymers, protective coatings, prototype design, medical imaging technologies and 3D medal additive manufacturing. Providing Irish businesses with a roadmap to accessing innovation support as well as a variety of solutions to innovation challenges.
The clusters team of researchers and engineers are best placed to help you navigate through the innovation process. From initial advice, expertise and knowledge to project and process control, the cluster can provide you with an insight to the necessary aids and supports needed to kickstart your innovative project. Wherever you are on the journey, EMD Ireland can help.
Read on to discover some useful advice when considering an innovation project.
Recognise that innovation can mean many things
Innovation can take many forms, such as experimenting with new technology, making incremental changes to an existing product or product line, or establishing a new product. All innovation journeys however start with an initial idea. From the outset, some may have a clear vision of what they require, whilst others may require additional time and support. EMD Ireland can assist at all stages.
Get advice at an early stage
The EMD Ireland team are there to listen and help so don’t be hesitant to look for their assistance, even if you’re at the initial idea stage. They will be able to guide and advise you on how best to proceed.
Meet consumer needs.
Recognising the current needs of your consumer, predicting change, and developing your product or service to provide a solution are critical factors to the success of business today. In today’s fast-paced world, technology and consumer demand change quickly so keeping in step with what is required often calls for continued research and development of your service, process, or product line. Maintaining innovation development in line with your consumer needs can ensure continued success.
Research your options.
Ensure that you have done some initial research on your idea. Areas to concentrate on are the innovative quality of your idea, prospective target markets, funding eligibility and project cost analysis.
Funding and support are also often critical in allowing a company to proceed but don’t worry if you’re unsure what options are available to you, the team can outline various Enterprise Ireland funding supports, as well as take you through the application process and eligibility for funding. Companies often find funding applications stressful, EMD Ireland can also help with support, guidance, and advice on submitting your application.
How can you get started?
The cluster has a dedicated support office and team to help with your companies’ individual needs. If you have an idea for a new product, service or process or are experiencing difficulties with an existing process, get in touch with us to see how we can assist you in developing an innovative solution.