As part of our ‘Meet the Team’ series, we’re sharing interviews with members from across the Technology Gateway Network. Today, we’re pleased to introduce Billy Donovan, Business Development & Commercialisation at MET Technology Gateway.
Tell us a bit about MET Technology Gateway?
MET Technology Gateway is part of the Enterprise Ireland Technology Gateway Network and is based at Atlantic Technological University (ATU) in Galway. MET focuses on supporting companies across MedTech, Life Sciences, Engineering, Manufacturing and emerging technology sectors through applied research, innovation, product development and advanced testing services.
At its core, MET acts as a bridge between industry and academia. We help companies accelerate innovation by giving them access to world-class expertise, advanced equipment, research capability and funding supports that might otherwise be difficult or expensive to access internally.
Our key areas include medical imaging technologies, anatomical modelling, design evaluation and optimisation, tissue engineering, bio fabrication, sports technologies and innovation in nutrition. We support everything from early-stage feasibility and prototyping right through to advanced-stage testing and commercialisation.
One of the major strengths of MET is our ability to combine engineering, medical imaging, simulation, materials science and real-world testing into one collaborative ecosystem.
In what ways is MET unique, especially in its impact across the Western region?
MET is unique because it combines enterprise-focused research with genuinely accessible industry engagement. We work with startups, SMEs, multinational corporations, clinicians, researchers and entrepreneurs, often all within the same ecosystem.
What makes MET particularly impactful in the Western region is that companies do not need to leave the country, or even the region, to access advanced innovation infrastructure. Businesses can access enterprise-grade imaging systems, simulation environments, testing equipment, prototyping capabilities and research expertise locally through ATU and the Gateway network.
The Western region has enormous talent across MedTech, manufacturing, engineering and digital technologies. MET helps unlock that potential by reducing barriers to innovation. We help companies de-risk ideas earlier, validate concepts faster and access funding pathways that accelerate growth.
Another key differentiator is our collaborative ecosystem approach. Through partnerships with Enterprise Ireland, universities, clinicians, industry leaders and the wider Technology Gateway Network, we can connect companies with the right expertise quickly.
We also focus heavily on practical outcomes. Industry wants speed, clarity, and commercial impact. MET is designed around helping companies solve real-world challenges.
Can you describe your role and key responsibilities?
I work in business development and commercial engagement at MET Technology Gateway. My role is centred around connecting companies with innovation opportunities, funding supports, research expertise and collaborative projects that can help accelerate growth and competitiveness.
A major part of my role involves engaging directly with companies to understand their challenges, whether that relates to product development, process improvement, digital transformation, AI, medical device testing, cybersecurity, manufacturing optimisation or commercialisation.
I also help companies navigate the innovation ecosystem, including Enterprise Ireland supports such as Innovation Vouchers, Innovation Partnerships and collaborative R&D funding opportunities such as DTIF.
Beyond that, I’m heavily involved in building strategic partnerships, organising industry events, developing collaborative networks and promoting the capabilities of MET both nationally and internationally.
A big focus for me is ensuring companies see innovation as accessible and achievable rather than something only available to large organisations.
What does a typical day look like for you?
No two days are really the same, which is one of the things I enjoy most.
A typical day could involve meeting with startups in the morning, discussing a MedTech validation project in the imaging suite before lunch, attending strategic ecosystem meetings in the afternoon and then speaking at an industry event or moderating a panel discussion later that evening.
A large part of the role involves relationship building by speaking with companies, understanding industry pain points, identifying opportunities for collaboration and connecting businesses with the right expertise inside ATU and the wider Gateway network.
There’s also a strong strategic element involving proposal development, funding applications, innovation planning, ecosystem partnerships and helping shape future opportunities for the region.
Because MET sits at the intersection of research, industry and innovation, the environment is extremely dynamic and future focused.
What is the first step/s a company should consider when considering an innovation project?
The first step is defining the actual problem clearly.
Many companies initially focus on the technology rather than the challenge they are trying to solve. The most successful innovation projects usually start with a very clear understanding of the business problem, customer need, regulatory challenge, manufacturing bottleneck or market opportunity.
From there, companies should assess:
- What outcome are they trying to achieve?
- What risks exist technically or commercially?
- What data or validation is needed?
- What expertise is missing internally?
- What funding supports may be available?
The next important step is engaging early with the right partners. That is where organisations like MET can add significant value. Early collaboration can help companies avoid costly mistakes, accelerate validation, and identify smarter development pathways.
Innovation does not always mean inventing something entirely new. Sometimes the biggest gains come from improving processes, integrating digital technologies, enhancing testing capabilities or solving existing operational challenges differently.
What are the main benefits for a company collaborating with MET and the wider Technology Gateway network?
The biggest benefit is access.
Companies gain access to:
- Advanced research expertise
- Specialist equipment and facilities
- Funding pathways
- Industry and academic networks
- Rapid feasibility testing
- Collaborative innovation opportunities
- Reduced development risk
For many SMEs especially, building these capabilities internally would be extremely expensive and time consuming.
The wider Enterprise Ireland Technology Gateway Network is also a major advantage because companies are not limited to one specialism. Through the network, businesses can connect into expertise across engineering, AI, cybersecurity, manufacturing, materials science, software, medical technologies, sustainability and more.
Another major benefit is speed. The Gateways are designed to work in an industry-focused way. Companies often need agile support, practical outputs and fast turnaround times rather than long academic cycles.
There is also a strong commercial focus. The aim is to help companies innovate faster, improve competitiveness, reduce risk and ultimately create economic impact.
If you could give one piece of advice to a business considering R&D for the first time, what would it be?
Do not wait until everything is perfect before starting.
Many businesses delay innovation because they think they need a fully formed solution, massive budgets, or large internal R&D teams. Innovation often starts with a small idea, a problem worth solving, or a simple feasibility question.
Start early, test early, and engage with experienced partners early.
There are excellent supports available in Ireland for companies willing to explore innovation, particularly through Enterprise Ireland and the Technology Gateway Network. Even relatively small projects can generate major long-term impact.
The companies that tend to progress fastest are usually the ones willing to collaborate, learn quickly, and iterate rather than waiting for certainty.
How can businesses connect with MET?
The easiest way is through the official MET website: www.metcentre.ie
Businesses can also connect through:
- Enterprise Ireland referrals
- The Technology Gateway Network
- Industry events and conferences
- ATU innovation and research events
- LinkedIn engagement and direct outreach
At MET, we always encourage companies to simply start the conversation. Even if a business is unsure whether their idea is suitable, an initial discussion can often uncover opportunities, funding supports, or collaboration pathways they may not have considered.
You can always reach me at: billy.donovan@atu.ie
