Invest NI Grants: AI & Digital Guide

    18 min readBy Brian Egan
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    Brian Egan

    Founder & CEO, Deep Purple AI Consulting

    Invest NI grants are Northern Ireland's main government funding programmes for business innovation and digital transformation. They range from £5,000 Innovation Vouchers for university collaborations to £25,000 Business Innovation Grants and negotiated funding through the Technical Development Incentive — with several programmes specifically supporting AI, automation, and data analytics projects for NI-based businesses.

    Our government-approved provider status is through Enterprise Ireland and LEO in the Republic, but we actively work with Northern Ireland businesses on AI projects. Our InterTradeIreland approved specialist status means we understand the cross-border landscape, and the Invest NI grants programmes described here follow similar models to those we deliver through daily.

    Northern Ireland landmarks including Belfast City Hall, Harland & Wolff cranes, and Peace Bridge representing the diverse business landscape eligible for Invest NI AI funding
    Figure 1: From Belfast to Derry, Northern Ireland businesses have access to substantial Invest NI funding for AI and digital transformation projects.

    Quick Summary

    Verified for 2026

    Invest Northern Ireland offers a range of funding programmes for businesses adopting AI and digital transformation — from £5,000 innovation vouchers to £45,000+ growth programmes. Whether you're an existing Invest NI client or not, there's likely a route that fits your business.

    Funding at a Glance

    ProgrammeAmountWho It's For
    Business Innovation Grant£5k–£20kNon-clients with innovative projects
    Innovation Vouchers£5,000NI-based SMEs & social enterprises
    Technical Development IncentiveUp to £25kInvest NI clients
    Digitalisation SolutionsVariesInvest NI clients with export focus
    Grant for R&DVariesInvest NI clients
    Ambition to GrowUp to £45kNon-clients planning to export

    Which Route Fits You?

    Not an Invest NI client? Start with BIG (£5k–£20k) or Innovation Vouchers (£5k)
    Already a client? Look at TDI, Digitalisation Solutions, or Grant for R&D
    Planning to export? Ambition to Grow offers up to £45k with mentoring
    Cross-border? See our InterTradeIreland guide for all-island funding

    Not sure Invest NI is the right fit?

    This guide covers Northern Ireland funding specifically. If you operate in the Republic of Ireland or want to compare all agencies, see our Complete Guide to AI Grants in Ireland 2026.

    Grant Guide Series

    Your Complete Guide to AI Grants in Ireland

    This is part of our comprehensive grant guide series. Start with the overview or jump to any agency guide:

    📌 Start here: Compare All Grants

    Side-by-side comparison of every grant agency, plus an interactive tool to find your best fit

    LEO Grants Ireland 2026: €5K–€150K

    For Irish SMEs with 1–50 employees

    Enterprise Ireland Grants 2026: Up to €400K

    For scaling businesses with export potential

    IDA Ireland Grants 2026: FDI Funding

    For multinational and foreign-owned companies

    InterTradeIreland Grants 2026: Cross-Border

    For businesses trading across ROI and Northern Ireland

    Invest NI Grants 2026: £5K–£45K

    You are here
    Údarás na Gaeltachta Grants 2026: €400K+

    For businesses in Gaeltacht regions

    WDC Funding 2026: Loans & Equity

    For businesses in the Western Region (Clare, Galway, Mayo, Sligo, Donegal, Leitrim, Roscommon)

    Looking for help applying? We guide businesses through the full grant process — from identifying the right funding to delivering the project. .

    Invest Northern Ireland

    What is Invest Northern Ireland?

    Invest Northern Ireland (Invest NI) is Northern Ireland's regional economic development agency, established in 2002. It is the main provider of business support and funding for companies based in Northern Ireland.

    Unlike agencies in the Republic of Ireland that focus on specific company sizes or sectors, Invest NI operates across a broad range — from early-stage SMEs to established exporters. Their innovation and R&D programmes are particularly relevant for businesses exploring AI and digital transformation.

    Some programmes (like the Business Innovation Grant and Ambition to Grow) are specifically designed for businesses that are not yet Invest NI clients, making them accessible entry points for companies new to government support.

    If you're running a business in Northern Ireland and considering AI or digital transformation, you're in a strong position. Invest Northern Ireland offers a range of funding programmes specifically designed to help businesses adopt new technologies, automate processes, and build competitive advantage through innovation.

    This guide breaks down the main funding options available for AI and digital projects, explains who's eligible, and helps you understand which programme might be right for your business — whether you're based in Belfast, Derry, Mid-Ulster, or anywhere else in Northern Ireland.

    Eligibility at a Glance

    To access most Invest NI funding programmes, your business must first be an Invest NI client. To qualify:

    • Your business must be based in Northern Ireland
    • Must operate in manufacturing and/or tradeable services
    • The potential to achieve at least 25% of sales to customers based outside Northern Ireland (or at least £250,000 external sales, whichever is lower)
    • The potential to employ at least 10 staff within 5 years

    Not sure where to start? Here's the quick guide:

    • Business Innovation Grant (BIG): Best for non-Invest NI clients looking for £5k–£20k to develop innovative projects
    • Innovation Vouchers: Best for £5k collaborations with universities like Queen's University Belfast or Ulster University
    • Digitalisation Solutions: Best for existing Invest NI clients implementing software/MIS systems
    • Technical Development Incentive: Best for Invest NI clients engaging external technical expertise
    • Ambition to Grow: Best for non-clients with plans to grow sales outside Northern Ireland

    Is My Project "Innovative" Enough?

    Many traditional businesses in Northern Ireland assume "Innovation" is only for software startups or tech companies. That's not the case.

    Innovate NI defines innovation as implementing a new or improved process that creates value. If you're an SME in a traditional sector, here's what funded AI innovation looks like in practice:

    Manufacturing & Engineering

    Using AI-powered computer vision for real-time quality control on the shop floor, or predictive maintenance systems that monitor equipment and reduce machine downtime before failures happen.

    Logistics & Supply Chain

    Implementing AI for demand forecasting to optimise stock levels, or using automated route optimisation to tackle cross-border delivery complexities between Northern Ireland and the Republic.

    Construction & Trades

    Automating back-office invoice extraction and coding, or using AI to flag outliers in quantity surveying before they lead to costly errors on site.

    Professional Services

    Moving beyond "dabbling" with ChatGPT to building structured AI workflows that automate lead generation, client onboarding, and document summarisation — freeing your team for higher-value work.

    The Key Insight

    Innovation isn't about using the latest technology for its own sake. It's about making a significant change to how your business operates that creates measurable value. A manufacturing firm moving from manual quality checks to AI-powered inspection is innovating — even though computer vision has existed for years.

    Roadmap of Invest NI funding tiers for AI: Innovation Vouchers (£5k), Business Improvement Grants (£50k), and Strategic R&D Funding, in Deep Purple AI brand colors.
    Figure 2: A strategic roadmap of the Invest NI funding streams available in 2026, transitioning from initial feasibility vouchers to substantial business improvement and R&D grants.
    💡 Insider Tip

    For Business Innovation Grant applications, the word 'novelty' trips people up. You don't need to invent new AI technology — you need to demonstrate how applying existing AI to your specific business challenge represents a significant improvement over your current methods. Focus your application on the business transformation, not the technology.

    Business Innovation Grant (BIG): Best for Non-Invest NI Clients

    Funding
    £5,000–£20,000
    Grant Rate
    70%
    Who Qualifies
    SMEs not currently Invest NI clients

    The Business Innovation Grant is particularly valuable if you're not currently an Invest NI client. This £4.3 million initiative, launched in November 2024, is delivered by Invest NI in partnership with Innovate NI and part-funded through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund — part of the UK Government's commitment to levelling up economic opportunity across the regions.

    Deep Purple Tip

    For BIG applications, Invest NI looks for "novelty." We recommend focusing your application on how the AI solution is a significant improvement over your current manual methods. Don't just say "we want to use AI" — explain that you're moving from manual spreadsheets to a data-driven forecasting model that reduces waste by X%, or from reactive maintenance to predictive systems that cut downtime by Y hours per month.

    What You Can Use It For

    BIG funding can support:

    • Market research for new products or services
    • Product development and prototyping
    • Market entry activities
    • Trade fairs and exhibitions
    • Commercialising innovative ideas

    For AI projects, this could mean funding an initial proof-of-concept, developing a minimum viable product, or researching how AI could transform your operations.

    Illustration of a digital transformation bridge from manual processes to AI-driven automation, in Deep Purple AI brand colors.
    Figure 3: Visualising the Digital Transformation journey funded by the Invest NI BIG grant: moving from manual, legacy workflows to a streamlined, AI-enhanced digital operation.

    Am I Eligible?

    You may be eligible if you:

    • Are a micro-business, sole trader, or SME based in Northern Ireland
    • Are NOT currently an Invest NI client
    • Have NOT received grant support from Invest NI in the last 5 years (excluding Covid-19 emergency support, ERIG, Innovation Vouchers, or Access to Finance programmes)
    • Have an innovative project that meets the Innovate NI definition

    What Counts as "Innovation"?

    "The development and implementation of a new or improved product, service, model, or process which is novel, significantly different, and has or will be either introduced to the market or implemented within the business to create value."

    — Innovate NI definition

    For AI and digital transformation, this could include:

    • Implementing AI-powered automation that significantly changes how you operate
    • Developing a new digital service offering
    • Creating an AI solution that addresses a problem in a novel way

    What You Get Beyond the Money

    Successful BIG applicants also receive:

    • Access to the Innovate NI programme for ongoing advice and guidance
    • An Innovation Recognition Certificate issued by Innovate NI on behalf of the Department for the Economy

    Sector Restrictions

    BIG is open to most sectors, but primary agriculture is excluded.

    Innovation Vouchers: £5,000 for University/Research Collaboration

    Funding
    £5,000
    Paid to Provider
    100%
    Who Qualifies
    NI-based SMEs and social enterprises

    Innovation Vouchers offer a straightforward way to access specialist expertise from universities, colleges, and research organisations. The funding pays for collaboration that can help you develop new products, services, or processes.

    How It Works

    1

    You apply during an open call window

    2

    If approved, you receive a voucher worth £5,000

    3

    You work with an approved Knowledge Provider to address your challenge

    4

    Invest NI pays the Knowledge Provider directly (you cover 20% VAT separately)

    5

    You have 9 months to complete your project

    Approved Knowledge Providers

    You can work with one of 39 approved Knowledge Providers across Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. These include:

    Northern Ireland

    • • Queen's University Belfast
    • • Ulster University
    • • Belfast Metropolitan College
    • • North West Regional College
    • • Southern Regional College

    Republic of Ireland (Cross-Border)

    • • Various research organisations
    • • Higher education institutes

    Cross-Border Advantage

    The ability to work with Knowledge Providers in both NI and ROI is particularly valuable. If your business operates across the border or your project could benefit from specialist expertise available in the Republic, this programme supports that cross-border collaboration. At Deep Purple, we work with businesses on both sides of the border and understand the nuances of cross-jurisdictional projects.

    What You Can Use Innovation Vouchers For

    Typical AI/digital projects include:

    • Exploring how AI or machine learning could apply to your business
    • Developing prototypes or proof-of-concept solutions
    • Feasibility studies for digital transformation
    • Technical analysis of automation opportunities

    What Innovation Vouchers Won't Cover

    • Transport sector projects
    • Primary agriculture
    • Project costs incurred before your voucher is issued
    • Projects that could be supported under another Invest NI programme

    Who's Eligible?

    Small Businesses

    • • Fewer than 50 employees
    • • Annual turnover or balance sheet below €10 million

    Medium Businesses

    • • 50–250 employees
    • • Annual turnover below €50 million or balance sheet below €43 million
    • • Must NOT have received Grant for R&D in the past 5 years

    Social enterprises and third-sector organisations can also apply.

    Technical Development Incentive (TDI): Up to £25,000 for Technical Services

    Funding
    Up to £25,000
    Grant Rate
    Varies
    Who Qualifies
    SMEs (Invest NI clients)
    Learn More
    R&D Support

    The Technical Development Incentive helps SMEs engage external technical specialists to implement innovative solutions. This is ideal if you need to bring in consultants, test houses, or certification bodies to advance your AI or digital project.

    What You Can Fund

    TDI supports engagement with:

    • Product development consultants
    • Test houses and laboratories
    • Certification bodies
    • IP specialists
    • Technical service providers

    For AI projects, this could fund working with:

    • AI consultancies to scope and plan implementation
    • Technical experts to validate your AI approach
    • Specialists to help with data architecture or integration
    Eligibility

    TDI is available to SMEs who are Invest NI clients.

    Digitalisation Solutions: MIS and Software Implementation

    Invest NI's E-business team provides advice and financial support for businesses implementing Management Information Systems (MIS). This programme focuses on digital transformation of core business operations.

    What's Covered

    Eligible systems include:

    CRM systems

    Customer relationship management

    ERP/MRP systems

    Enterprise resource planning and manufacturing

    Digital automation tools

    Workflow and process automation

    Customer portals

    Self-service and client-facing platforms

    E-commerce platforms

    Online sales and ordering

    Finance systems

    Accounting and financial management

    Financial Support Available

    Where applicable, Invest NI may fund:

    • One-off software costs
    • Setup and configuration
    • User training

    The Appraisal Process

    Before funding is approved, an E-business advisor will assess your project to ensure it represents a "significant step forward in ICT sophistication and digital transformation" for your business.

    Eligibility
    • • Must be an Invest NI client
    • • Project must demonstrate meaningful impact on business processes through ICT transformation
    • • Typically requires export-focused business orientation

    Grant for R&D: Transforming Ideas to Commercial Success

    For more substantial R&D projects, Invest NI offers the Grant for R&D programme. This supports businesses taking ideas from concept through to commercial reality.

    What It Covers

    R&D grants can support:

    • Developing new products or processes
    • Creating cutting-edge services
    • Advancing established innovation projects
    • First-time R&D for businesses new to formal research and development
    Isometric illustration of an AI research and development hub showing collaboration between business, academia, and technical experts in Deep Purple AI colors.
    Figure 4: The collaborative R&D ecosystem: connecting business goals with technical expertise and academic research to develop advanced, proprietary AI solutions.

    The Application Process

    Unlike some programmes, Grant for R&D requires:

    1

    Discussion of your proposed project with an Invest NI representative

    2

    Issue of an application form with an individual reference number

    Important

    Applications submitted without completing both steps will be returned.

    R&D Tax Relief Interaction

    If your project receives Grant for R&D funding (which is notified state aid), those specific costs won't be eligible for HMRC SME R&D tax credits. However, other project costs may still qualify for tax relief.

    Beyond Invest NI: Innovate UK Opportunities

    If your R&D project has potential beyond Northern Ireland, Invest NI can also provide guidance on Innovate UK funding opportunities. Their Bid Review Service offers expert guidance for Innovate UK applications.

    Ambition to Grow: Up to £45,000 for Growth-Focused Businesses

    Funding
    Up to £45,000
    Grant Rate
    Varies
    Who Qualifies
    Businesses NOT Invest NI clients

    Ambition to Grow targets businesses that aren't currently Invest NI clients but have plans to:

    • Grow sales outside Northern Ireland
    • Create new employment

    Eligibility

    • NOT currently an Invest NI client
    • Already trading
    • Plans for external (outside NI) sales growth
    • Commitment to creating new jobs

    Application Status

    The most recent application window closed 30 January 2026 at 12 noon. Check the Invest NI website for future opportunities.

    Becoming an Invest NI Client: What's Required?

    Several of the best funding programmes require you to be an Invest NI client. Here's what that involves:

    Quick Self-Assessment: Are You Eligible to Become a Client?

    Answer these questions to check if you could qualify:

    1

    Is your business based in Northern Ireland?

    2

    Can your business achieve 25% of sales outside Northern Ireland (or £250,000 external sales)?

    3

    Could you realistically employ 10+ staff within the next 5 years?

    4

    Are you in manufacturing and/or tradeable services?

    0 of 4 answered

    Client Eligibility Criteria

    To become an Invest NI client, your business typically needs to demonstrate:

    • External sales potential: Ability to achieve 25% of sales outside Northern Ireland, or £250,000 in external sales (whichever is lower)
    • Employment growth: Potential to employ at least 10 staff within 5 years
    • Sector fit: Manufacturing and/or tradeable services businesses

    What If You're Not Eligible for Client Status?

    If you don't meet client criteria, you can still access:

    • Business Innovation Grant (BIG) – specifically for non-clients
    • Innovation Vouchers – open to SMEs regardless of client status
    • Ambition to Grow – designed for non-clients with growth plans
    • Business Support Team advice
    • nibusinessinfo.co.uk resources and guides

    Which Programme Is Right for Your AI Project?

    Starting Out with AI (Exploring/Learning Phase)

    Best fit: Innovation Voucher (£5,000)

    If you're at the early stages of understanding how AI could help your business, an Innovation Voucher lets you work with a university or research organisation to explore possibilities without major commitment.

    Before applying for an Innovation Voucher, many of our clients start with an AI Opportunity Map to identify the highest-ROI use cases. This ensures your voucher project focuses on the area with the greatest potential impact — and gives you a stronger application.

    Example project: Working with Queen's University Belfast or Ulster University to assess which of your business processes are suitable for AI automation.

    Ready to Build Something (Development Phase)

    Best fit: Business Innovation Grant (£5k–£20k) or Technical Development Incentive (up to £25k)

    If you've identified what you want to build and need funding to develop it:

    • BIG works well if you're not an Invest NI client
    • TDI works well if you are a client and want to bring in external technical expertise

    Example project: Developing an AI-powered inventory management system to reduce waste and improve forecasting.

    Book a free 20-minute intro call — we can help you scope a grant-eligible project and understand which programme fits best.

    Implementing at Scale (Transformation Phase)

    Best fit: Digitalisation Solutions or Grant for R&D

    For larger-scale digital transformation involving significant software implementation or substantial R&D:

    • Digitalisation Solutions suits MIS/software implementation projects
    • Grant for R&D suits genuine R&D with commercial application

    Example project: Implementing an ERP system with AI-driven demand forecasting across your entire operation.

    How to Apply for Invest NI AI Funding

    Your Step-by-Step Application Roadmap

    1

    Phase 1: Project Assessment

    1 week

    Identify Your Project Type

    Is it R&D (developing something new) or implementation (deploying existing technology)?

    Determine Your Invest NI Client Status

    Use the self-assessment checklist above to confirm eligibility

    Match to the Right Programme

    Use the comparison table at the top of this guide to find the best fit

    2

    Phase 2: Pre-Application

    1–2 weeks

    Check for Open Application Windows

    Innovation Vouchers have periodic "calls"; BIG accepts rolling applications

    Prepare Your Application

    Document how your project meets the "innovation" definition and its business impact

    Gather Supporting Documents

    • Project scope and objectives
    • Expected business impact and ROI
    • Consultant proposals and quotes
    • Evidence of innovation or new-to-firm technology
    3

    Phase 3: Submission & Review

    2–6 weeks

    Speak with an Advisor

    Contact Invest NI directly or work with an AI consultant to validate eligibility before applying

    Submit Your Application

    Complete the relevant programme application form with all supporting documentation

    Evaluation & Decision

    Invest NI reviews your application and communicates the outcome

    Pro Tip

    The most common reason applications get rejected is failing to demonstrate genuine innovation. "We're implementing software" isn't enough — you need to show how your project represents a significant change that creates measurable business value.

    What Can You Actually Build With Invest NI Funding?

    Getting the grant is half the battle — executing the project is the other half. Here's what NI businesses typically build at each funding level:

    • With a £5K Innovation Voucher: An AI readiness assessment or a small prototype — a pilot chatbot, automated reporting tool, or proof-of-concept integration with your existing systems.
    • With a £25K BIG Grant: A targeted AI project — automated quoting, predictive demand planning, quality inspection system, or intelligent scheduling tools.
    • With £45K Ambition to Grow: A full custom AI system integrated into your operations — from data analytics dashboards to end-to-end workflow automation.

    At Deep Purple, we work with Northern Ireland businesses to navigate grant applications and build production-ready AI systems.

    AI Use Cases for Northern Ireland Businesses

    Not sure if your project counts as "innovation"? Here are practical AI applications by sector that could qualify for Invest NI funding:

    Manufacturing & Engineering

    • Predictive maintenance: AI systems that monitor equipment and predict failures before they happen, reducing downtime
    • Quality control automation: Computer vision systems that inspect products faster and more accurately than manual checks
    • Production scheduling: AI-optimised scheduling that reduces waste and improves throughput
    • Demand forecasting: Machine learning models that predict orders to optimise inventory levels

    Example: A Belfast manufacturing firm used TDI funding to implement AI-powered quality inspection, reducing defect rates by 40%.

    Logistics & Distribution

    • • Route optimisation for efficient deliveries
    • • Warehouse automation and intelligent picking
    • • Demand prediction for stock requirements
    • • Fleet management and predictive maintenance

    Construction

    • • Site safety monitoring with AI cameras
    • • Project cost estimation with ML models
    • • Drone imagery analysis for progress tracking
    • • Resource planning optimisation

    Professional Services

    • • Automated document processing
    • • Intelligent client communication routing
    • • Automated compliance monitoring
    • • AI-powered knowledge management

    Food & Drink

    • • Supply chain optimisation
    • • Computer vision for quality assurance
    • • Automated traceability systems
    • • AI-optimised energy management

    AI for Northern Ireland's Traditional Industries

    Northern Ireland's strongest sectors — engineering, manufacturing, agri-food, and construction — are exactly where AI delivers the biggest returns. If you're running a traditional business, don't assume these programmes are only for software companies. They're specifically designed for businesses like yours.

    Engineering & Precision Manufacturing

    AI-powered quality inspection, predictive maintenance for CNC machines, and automated scheduling systems. A Mid-Ulster engineering firm could use a BIG grant (£25,000) to implement computer vision that catches defects before products leave the factory floor.

    Agri-Food & Food Processing

    Demand forecasting to reduce food waste, automated grading systems, and supply chain optimisation. An Innovation Voucher (£5,000) with a local university could prove the concept before scaling with TDI funding.

    Construction & Building Services

    Automated quoting from tender documents, project timeline prediction, and resource allocation optimisation. These are high-ROI AI applications with payback periods measured in months, not years.

    The key message: Invest NI explicitly wants to fund AI adoption in traditional sectors. If you've been told "that grant is for tech companies," that's simply not true. The Business Innovation Grant and Technical Development Incentive are built for businesses exactly like yours.

    Why Grant Applications Get Rejected (And How to Avoid It)

    Understanding common rejection reasons can significantly improve your chances of success:

    1

    Failing to Demonstrate "Innovation"

    The Problem

    Simply saying "we're implementing new software" or "we want to use AI" isn't enough.

    The Fix

    Clearly articulate what's novel about your approach and how it creates measurable business value. Focus on the transformation, not the technology.

    2

    Weak Business Case

    The Problem

    Applications that focus on technical features without showing commercial impact.

    The Fix

    Quantify the expected benefits — cost savings, efficiency gains, new revenue potential. Use specific numbers where possible.

    3

    Eligibility Mismatches

    The Problem

    Applying for programmes you don't qualify for (e.g., applying for client-only programmes as a non-client, or applying when you've received funding too recently).

    The Fix

    Double-check eligibility criteria before investing time in an application. When in doubt, contact Invest NI directly.

    4

    Incomplete Applications

    The Problem

    Missing documentation, vague project descriptions, or unanswered questions.

    The Fix

    Have someone else review your application before submission. Ensure every question is answered fully.

    5

    Project Already Underway

    The Problem

    Some programmes won't fund projects that have already started or costs already incurred.

    The Fix

    Apply before committing to purchases or starting significant work.

    Pro Tip

    If your application is rejected, always request feedback. Most programmes allow reapplication, and understanding why you were unsuccessful dramatically improves your next attempt.

    How Deep Purple Can Help

    As AI consultants working with SMEs across Ireland and Northern Ireland, we help businesses:

    Assess AI readiness

    Understand where AI can genuinely add value through our structured discovery process

    Scope grant-eligible projects

    Define projects that meet funding criteria and demonstrate clear business impact

    Navigate the application process

    Present your project in terms funders understand

    Implement effectively

    Turn funded projects into working solutions that deliver real results

    We work with businesses at every stage, from initial exploration through to full implementation. If you're considering an AI project and want to understand your funding options, we're happy to have a conversation.

    Key Contacts and Resources

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Q: Can I apply for multiple programmes?

    A: Generally, yes – but check specific programme rules. Some programmes (like Grant for R&D) may exclude you from others (like Innovation Vouchers for medium-sized businesses). BIG specifically requires that you haven't received Invest NI grants in the past 5 years (with some exceptions).

    Q: Do I need to be based in Northern Ireland?

    A: Yes. All Invest NI programmes require your business to be based in Northern Ireland. If you're based in the Republic of Ireland, different funding applies – see our guides on Enterprise Ireland, LEO grants, and other ROI programmes.

    Q: How long does the application process take?

    A: It varies by programme: Innovation Vouchers typically take 4-6 weeks from application to decision during open call windows. BIG rolling applications are processed within a few weeks. Grant for R&D involves a longer process with initial discussions, then formal application.

    Q: What if my application is rejected?

    A: Most programmes allow you to apply again with an improved application. Feedback from Invest NI can help you strengthen your next submission.

    Q: Can I use AI consultants like Deep Purple as part of funded projects?

    A: Yes. For programmes like TDI or BIG, you can engage external consultants to deliver your project. For Innovation Vouchers, you must work with approved Knowledge Providers (universities/research organisations), but could engage separate consultants for implementation after the voucher project.

    Summary: Your Next Steps

    1. 1Assess your situation: Are you an Invest NI client? Do you meet the criteria?
    2. 2Match your project to programmes: Use the table above to identify which funding suits your stage
    3. 3Prepare your pitch: All programmes require demonstrating innovation and business impact
    4. 4Get support: Whether from Invest NI advisors or external consultants, don't navigate this alone

    Northern Ireland businesses have access to strong funding for AI and digital transformation. The key is matching your project to the right programme and presenting it in terms funders understand.

    A digital checklist showing the steps for Invest NI funding: Eligibility, Opportunity Mapping, and Grant Selection, styled in Deep Purple AI brand colors.
    Figure 5: Your 2026 Invest NI Action Plan. Deep Purple AI helps SMEs navigate these steps—from initial eligibility to selecting the right grant for long-term growth.

    Get in touch with Deep Purple – we're happy to help you think through your options. We work with businesses across Northern Ireland and have hands-on experience navigating Invest NI programmes.

    Book a short call to discuss your situation and funding options.

    Prefer to email? hello@deeppurple.ai

    #InvestNI#NorthernIreland#AIFunding#InnovationVouchers#GrantForRD#DigitalTransformation#NIBusiness#SMEFunding#AIConsulting#TechDevelopment#BusinessGrants#ManufacturingAI
    Brian Egan

    About Brian Egan

    Founder & CEO, Deep Purple AI Consulting

    Brian Egan is the Founder and CEO of Deep Purple AI Consulting. With over 26 years in software and AI — from studying neural networks at Dublin City University, to building intelligent mobile systems for Vodafone, Nokia, and Hutchison 3G, to founding four technology companies that delivered machine learning, computer vision, and predictive AI solutions to real businesses — Brian has been building with AI technologies at every stage of their evolution.

    His interest in artificial intelligence began at DCU, where he studied neural networks and pattern recognition as part of his BSc in Computer Applications. As a Marie Curie Research Fellow in Germany, he worked on EU Framework projects developing intelligent systems for integrating emerging mobile technologies with enterprise software. At Cibenix (2003–2011), he spent eight years designing on-device software for Vodafone, Nokia, Hutchison 3G, Sony Ericsson, and other global operators — work that increasingly involved content personalisation, user behaviour analysis, and adaptive delivery logic.

    In 2012, Brian founded Purpledecks, a software consultancy that evolved with the AI landscape — incorporating machine learning, computer vision, data classification, predictive features, and recommendation engines into client projects years before the current generative AI wave. From Purpledecks came Hype4 (UX research including AI-powered biometric identification for government programmes), Mapall (fibre optic network intelligence with spatial analytics and route optimisation), and Reactable AI (one of Ireland's earliest production deployments of autonomous AI agents).

    An Enterprise Ireland approved consultant, LEO Digital for Business provider, and former Marie Curie Research Fellow, Brian now works directly with established businesses across Ireland and the UK, helping them identify where AI delivers genuine commercial value and guiding them from first assessment through to working system.

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