NI Science Park challenges you to ‘INVENT’
For over 400 years Northern Ireland innovation has been changing the world; the tractor, mobile defibrillators, whiskey distilling, even chocolate. What are the innovations from today that will be remembered 100 years from now?
This is the challenge laid down today by the Northern Ireland Science Park as it launches INVENT2014, the search for Northern Ireland’s new heroes of innovation, in partnership with Bank of Ireland.
INVENT 2014, an evolution of the former £25k Awards, is an opportunity for anyone with an innovative idea, from farmyard inventors, to engineers, to dynamic research scientists and our high tech youth with new gaming or app ideas. The 2014 Awards are open not only to research institutions but to any private sector company or individual with a breakthrough invention or concept.
“We want people to release their inner innovation.” says Steve Orr, Director of NISP CONNECT. “Many of the key advances in engineering, health and science originate from this tiny place. It’s in our DNA, that’s why we’re calling out to all innovators and entrepreneurs across Northern Ireland to step forward and bring your innovation to life through INVENT!
“Our message is simple to everyone out there. If you think you’ve found a solution to an everyday problem, INVENT 2014 is here to help take it to the next stage, so please apply now”
Ian Sheppard Head of Business & Corporate Banking at Bank of Ireland UK said, “The Bank is delighted to continue to support this programme as it evolves into INVENT 2014, which will harness ingenuity across the public and private sectors in Northern Ireland.
“The introduction of the new categories in agri-food and software enterprise, both of which have significant local businesses, are already re-inventing our local economy.
“Northern Ireland’s economic growth and competitiveness depend on its capacity to innovate, as supporting creativity and innovation will create jobs and industries of the future.
“Supporting talent with practical guidance, access to expertise and providing financial support is an important part of the bank’s commitment to be Northern Ireland’s Enterprise Bank. We look forward to seeing this years’ talent, uncovering innovative gems and playing our part in realising their ambition of creating world class products and services with global appeal.”
The online application process opened today at and will close on Friday 4th April. Successful applicants in six categories will take part in a unique six month programme which will see their ideas challenged, refined and cultivated, ready to launch a successful start-up business.
With direct input and expert advice from some of Northern Ireland’s top business mentors and like-minded innovators and entrepreneurs, coupled with a £33,000 prize fund, the INVENT2014 Awards are Northern Ireland’s biggest and brightest opportunity to make an inventive idea become commercial reality. At the end of the six month development programme, finalists will pitch their business plans to a panel of experts to vie for the top prizes. Winners of the prestigious awards will be announced at a gala awards showcase in Belfast on 2nd October 2014.
