Seven digital technology projects ranging from 3D urban planning to innovative childrens’ maths courses have been granted €7m in funding from the National Digital Research Centre (NDRC).
In a new collaborative-type approach, university research teams, commercial organisations and the NDRC will collaborate to deliver the projects over the next 18 months, supported by the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources and based at the NDRC research facility in The Digital Hub.
Ranging from innovative children’s maths courses delivered on mobile devices, through to high-tech 3D modelling of urban planning and infrastructure, the seven projects will commence immediately. All R&D projects at the NDRC seek to translate research opportunities into commercial success.
“With clusters of the world’s leading technology players now located in Ireland, there is no reason why we cannot foster digital innovation from within,” said the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources, Eamon Ryan TD (pictured).
“Such advances, particularly in digital technologies, can ultimately create new companies, generate commercial opportunities and bring prosperity to society as a whole. I am confident that collaboration, such as that commencing here at the NDRC, can ultimately contribute to economic growth in this country,” Minister Ryan said.
Currently, the NDRC provides a ‘one-stop shop’ for digital and digital media technology projects with commercial potential. It was founded by the Department of Communications in early 2007, and is run by a consortium of third-level institutions to focus on translational research opportunities in Ireland that have global appeal.
“The NDRC realises the importance of commercially focused R&D and how public and private bodies can come together to expedite such research,” said Ben Hurley, CEO, NDRC.
“We are delighted that the department has been able to support our goals as we focus on translating research into commercial opportunities with socioeconomic benefits. Continued investment in this type of research and innovation is vital to economic recovery”, Hurley said.
By John Kennedy
Pictured: Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources Eamon Ryan TD
