Manufacturing NI, the representative body for Northern Ireland’s manufacturing sector, will support businesses to adopt new digital technologies as part of a new E-DATA (Enterprise Digitalisation And Transformation Alliance) project. The €6.7 million cross-border initiative is supported by PEACEPLUS, a programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB) and is led by Ulster University.
The E-DATA project will offer funded, tailored support to help SMEs across Northern Ireland and the border counties of Ireland to modernise, digitise, and decarbonise. Manufacturers and other business types will benefit from access to open-source tools and cloud-based platforms to support their digital transformation journey. This will be complemented by expert guidance and implementation in areas such as artificial intelligence (AI), data analytics, automation, and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies.
Stephen Kelly, Chief Executive of Manufacturing NI, said:
“SMEs make up 96% of Northern Ireland’s manufacturing base and support over 100,000 jobs across the region. For these firms, digital transformation isn’t just about adopting new technology, it’s about staying competitive, improving productivity and future-proofing their operations. Whether it’s automation to drive efficiency or data-led tools to cut waste and carbon, access to the right support is key to reducing barriers and unlocking that potential. The E-DATA initiative will provide practical, targeted assistance for ambitious manufacturers and we’re committed to making sure it reaches those who need it most.
Delivered in collaboration with Ulster University, Atlantic Technological University, Innovate NI, Sustainable NI and Manufacturing NI, E-DATA will:
- Provide impartial digital transformation advice tailored to SME needs
- Deliver fully funded, hands-on support to implement new technologies
- Support manufacturers to analyse and reduce energy usage and carbon outputs
- Promote innovation-led product and process improvements
- Develop cross-border business networks and collaborative clusters
PEACEPLUS is a funding partnership between the European Union, the Government of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, the Government of Ireland and the Northern Ireland Executive. By adopting a cross-border model, E-DATA aims to strengthen economic links, promote peace and prosperity, and contribute to a shared, sustainable future for all communities in the region.
As a key industry partner representing over 5,800 manufacturing firms, Manufacturing NI will play an active role in delivering support and outreach throughout the programme.
Calls for SME participation are expected to open later this year.
