Technology & Innovation
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Knowledge is the key source of competitive advantage in today’s advanced economies. Ireland has developed as a knowledge-based economy built on innovation and technology and shaped by the emergence of strong technology-led and export-focused companies. The Irish Government has made a clear commitment to supporting its 2006 – 2013 Strategy for Science, Technology and Innovation which provides funding and support to fuel innovation across industry, research and education and emphasises the benefits of international collaboration. |
Ireland’s dynamic RD&I (Research, Development & Innovation) sector is driven by an exceptional level of collaboration between industry, academia, government agencies and regulatory authorities. Backed by a pro-business Government policy, these stakeholders work effectively as an ambitious national team to win complex, high-value RD&I investments for Ireland.
In 2009 the number of investments in RD&I increased 10% on 2008, in keeping with the Government’s Strategy to develop the Smart Economy. This equates to 49% of all investments secured during the year. The level of RD&I investments was in excess of €500m; with IBM, Boston Scientific, Citi, Intel, Pfizer, Helsinn, HP, Paypal, Colgate-Palmolive, Alps Electric and SITA some of the key investors.
The Science Foundation Ireland (SFI) contributes to enhancing research capabilities and skills in Irish Universities, particularly in biotechnology, food science, and information and communications technology.
Useful Links
| IDA (Industrial Development Agency) Ireland www.idaireland.com/innovation |
| Science Foundation Ireland http://www.sfi.ie |