Digital Transformation Flexible Fund
Call 2 of the Digital Transformation Flexible Fund (DTFF) is now open for expressions of interest.
The DTFF aims to help small and micro businesses in Northern Ireland to invest in advanced digital technologies. It establishes a grant fund to support eligible businesses with investments in capital equipment that is critical to achieving their digital transformation ambitions.
The focus of the fund is on innovative technologies, such as:
- smart environments and the Internet of Things
- simulation, process automation and additive manufacturing
- big data and analytics
- immersive technologies
- artificial intelligence and machine learning
- blockchain technologies and more
To be eligible, capital investments must enable business transformation rather than simply digitisation of existing business models or operations.
Funding is available between £5,000 and £20,000 for an investment project. If eligible, the grant can fund up to 70% of the cost of the total value of a project. Applicants must match-fund a minimum of 30% of the overall project costs.
Register for the DTFF pre-briefing sessions
Interested applicants are recommended to attend a pre-briefing session before submitting an expression of interest.
Online briefing sessions
Date: 22 March 2024 (MS Teams)
Time: 10am to midday
Register
In-person briefing sessions
In-person briefing sessions took place from 11 March to 20 March 2024 across the various NI council venues. There are currently no further in-person sessions scheduled.
Call 2 of the DTFF will close to expressions of interest on midday on 29 March 2024.
Read the full DTFF applicant guidance for a detailed overview of the programme, eligibility and how to apply.
In order to claim from the DTFF, successful applicants will have to complete an Innovate NI Innovation Assessment before they can draw down funding.
The DTFF is delivered by all local authorities in Northern Ireland under the Full Fibre Northern Ireland Consortium and supported by Invest Northern Ireland. The project is part funded by the NI Executive, UK Government, Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs and all local councils in Northern Ireland.
First published 20 October 2023