The DTFF aims to help small and micro businesses in Northern Ireland to invest in advanced digital technologies. It establishes a grant fund to support eligible businesses with investments in capital equipment that is critical to achieving their digital transformation ambitions.

The focus of the fund is on innovative technologies, such as:

• smart environments and the Internet of Things
• simulation, process automation and additive manufacturing
• big data and analytics
• immersive technologies
• artificial intelligence and machine learning
• blockchain technologies and more

To be eligible, capital investments must enable business transformation rather than simply digitisation of existing business models or operations.

Funding is available between £5,000 and £20,000 for an investment project. If eligible, the grant can fund up to 70% of the cost of the total value of a project. Applicants must match-fund a minimum of 30% of the overall project costs.

Register for the DTFF online pre-briefing session

Potential applicants can register to join the online pre-briefing session for Call 2 on 4 March 2024.

Dates for the in-person pre-briefing sessions across each council area will be published on the DTFF website soon.