Technology Gateways offer innovation support to companies of all sizes from start-ups and SMEs right up to large indigenous and multinationals.
Since 2013 the Network has collaborated with over 2,500 Irish companies completing more than 4,000 innovation projects.
Successful collaborations often result in the Gateway becoming an extension of the company’s R&D facility over time, as it partners with the business along the innovation journey towards increased growth, sustainability and competitiveness.
Project type
Typical projects focus on the development of a new product or service or the optimisation of a process. Through the Network, companies can leverage the expertise of over 300 industry-focused researchers and engineers, together with specialist equipment and facilities, to access near-to-market innovation and solutions.
Collaborating with the Network
Working with the Technology Gateway Network, couldn’t be easier. The dedicated team of Gateway Managers and Business Development staff are available to assist throughout your innovation journey. They also act as the key contact points for industry and manage the successful delivery of projects on time and within budget.
What to expect
So what can you expect along your Innovation Journey? The Technology Gateways Innovation Roadmap outlines what to expect and the support and advice available to you when working with the Network.
- Step 1: Innovation idea/problem to be solved
Each innovation journey starts with the creation of a new idea or the acknowledgement of an existing problem within a product or process. - Step 2: Contact a Technology Gateway team
You may already know which Gateway is the most suitable for your needs, but if you don’t your regional gateway is a good starting point and our experienced Gateway teams will guide you in the right direction. - Step 3: Outline company need
The Gateway Manager will work with you to outline your company need. This is essential as it is important to clarify at this early stage the product or problem, what technologies are required, how it will aid the company and what stage the project is currently at. - Step 4: Discuss funding options
At this stage, the Gateway Manager will outline and discuss various funding options open to you, going through in detail the application process and eligibility for funding. - Step 5: Agree on project deliverables
Ensuring everyone is agreed on the task at hand is of vital importance. It ensures the project runs smoothly, on time and on budget. Agreeing on deliverables at this stage means there will be no unexpected surprises further along the road. Please note, if the project is directly funded, steps 6 & 7 will be skipped. - Step 6: Apply for funding
Companies often find funding applications stressful, don’t worry our Gateway teams are here to help every step of the way with support, guidance and advice on submitting your application. - Step 7: Funding awarded
Once you have applied to Enterprise Ireland for your funding and it has been considered, you will receive an answer confirming your funding status. If you have been successful with your application, you’re ready to move to the next stage! - Step 8: Contract signed
Once you receive confirmation of funding, contact your Gateway Manager and inform them of your successful application. They will arrange a meeting to sign contracts for the agreed work package and confirm a start date. - Step 9: Project start & updates
Once everything is in place, your project will commence on the start date agreed and will be managed throughout by your Gateway team, who will also update you on how your project is progressing. - Step 10: Project delivered
You will be informed by your Gateway team when your project has been completed. The team will provide you with the agreed outcome as laid out in the project deliverables.
Sources and further information:
- https://www.technologygateway.ie/network/work-with-us/
- https://www.enterprise-ireland.com/en/Research-Innovation/Companies/Collaborate-with-companies-research-institutes/Technology-Gateway-Programme.html
- https://www.technologygateway.ie/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/EI-Technology-Gateway-April-2021-1.pdf
