University of Limerick hosts event to showcase new start-ups to entrepreneurs

SEVENTEEN of Ireland's top researchers have showcased research to potential investors at a special event held at University of Limerick's Nexus Innovation Centre.

The event was named the 'Deep-Tech Partner Opportunity Platform' and saw top scientists at Ireland's State-funded educational institutes network with entrepreneurs.

The 17 projects were selected for their deep-tech solutions designed to tackle real world challenges.

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Deep tech refers to technologies are not yet developed yet, based on scientific or engineering breakthroughs.

Examples could be new types of batteries, artificial intelligence (AI) which learns like humans and super-small computers.

These technologies often need intense research and development, plus substantial capital investment to commercialise but have the potential to tackle major global challenges like climate change and resource scarcity, disrupt industries, and create new markets.

The innovations showcased at the event in University of Limerick ranged across semiconductors, food technologies, AI and data analytics, advanced battery anodes, solid-state nanopore and micropore chip technologies, as well as breakthroughs in medtech, edtech, renewable energy and robotics.

At the event, entrepreneurs had the opportunity to connect with investors, mentors and commercial leaders who provide essential support in transforming breakthrough inventions into market-ready solutions.

The showcase marked the fourth in a series of business partner events led by the Technology Transfer Office at UL, providing a platform for deep engagement between researchers, founders, investors, mentors and industry leaders.

Paul Dillon, director, of the Technology Transfer Office said: "Ireland’s universities are central to fast-tracking visionary founders academic research and creating spinouts with real world impact. At UL we are proud to champion this collaborative national effort, one that strengthens Ireland’s innovation landscape and supports visionary founders on the journey from research to real-world impact.

“The research powering these ventures is supported by Enterprise Ireland, Research Ireland, the Higher Education Authority and the EU, a testament to the importance of sustained investment in deep-tech innovation.”

Gert O’Rourke, New Ventures manager in UL added: “Researchers deliver the breakthroughs, our role is to help bring them to the world. At UL, supporting the commercialisation of research isn’t just about creating companies, it’s about creating opportunities that change lives, strengthen communities and inspire the next generation of innovators.”

Alongside UL, the products showcased originated at University College Dublin, University College Cork, Athlone Technological University, University of Galway, Munster Technical University, Dublin City University and the Royal College of Surgeons, alongside agricultural body Teagasc.