UK Digital Twin Centre opens in Belfast

Support to boost digital twin adoption in key UK industries

The UK Digital Twin Centre has officially opened in Belfast, marking a major step forward in supporting digital innovation across the UK.

Led by Digital Catapult and funded by the Belfast Region City Deal and Innovate UK, the Centre will help businesses and industry make better use of digital twin technologies - tools that create virtual models of real-world systems to improve efficiency, resilience and performance.

Early co-investment has come from Artemis Technologies, Spirit AeroSystems and Thales UK, showing strong industry backing for the initiative. The Centre is expected to drive innovation, create high-skilled jobs, and support growth in Northern Ireland's industrial economy.

First programme: Digital Twin Adoption Accelerator

The Centre's first major initiative is the Digital Twin Adoption Accelerator, a seven-month programme designed to fast-track adoption in the maritime, aerospace and defence sectors.

Partnerships of tech SMEs and industry adopters can apply for up to £100,000 in funding, along with mentoring, specialist support, and opportunities to showcase their solutions.

Find out more about the Digital Twin Adoption Accelerator.

First published 6 May 2025