Digital Transformation Flexible Fund
Call 4 is due to launch in early 2025
The Digital Transformation Flexible Fund (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.
You can register to join the free thematic webinars from the William J. Clinton Leadership Institute, to find out more about the digital technologies eligible for funding under the DTFF.
Find out more about the DTFF
Read the full DTFF applicant guidance for a detailed overview of the programme, eligibility and how to apply.
Expressions of Interest for Call 3 closed on 12 July 2024. Call 4 is anticipated to launch in early 2025.
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