Ireland’s next wave of breakthrough businesses and research partnerships can now seek support through DTIF funding, with €40 million available under the eighth competitive call of the Disruptive Technologies Innovation Fund. Applications opened on 1 October 2026 and must be submitted by 3 February 2027 at 3pm Irish time.
The announcement was made by Peter Burke, Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, as the Government seeks projects capable of turning advanced research into commercially viable products, services and technologies.
DTIF funding targets high-impact Irish innovation
Administered by Enterprise Ireland for the Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, the fund is designed to strengthen collaboration between Irish companies and the country’s research community. It supports industrial research and experimental development in fields including artificial intelligence, life sciences, medical devices, manufacturing, ICT and environmental technology.
Since its launch under the National Development Plan in 2018, seven previous calls have supported 131 projects, with Government approvals totalling €530 million. Projects are expected to focus on commercialisation over a three- to seven-year period.
Who can apply?
Applications must come from a consortium of at least three eligible partners. Each group must include at least one SME and one additional enterprise. Collaboration with Irish research-performing organisations is encouraged, while public bodies and semi-state organisations may participate as non-funded partners under the updated arrangements.
Eligible partners must be based in Ireland and be clients of Enterprise Ireland, IDA Ireland, Údarás na Gaeltachta or an eligible research organisation. The minimum funding request is €1.5 million for projects lasting up to three years.
- SME partners must provide matched funding.
- Large companies must contribute 60% of project funding.
- Projects must demonstrate commercial scale and meaningful impact.
- Applications are assessed by independent international experts.
Assessment criteria and regional events
Expert panels will assess proposals against four criteria: the quality of the disruptive technology, the strength of the overall approach, economic impact and sustainability, and the quality of collaboration.
Enterprise Ireland is also hosting Disruptech events to explain the scheme and help potential applicants find consortium partners. Remaining events are scheduled for:
- 1 October – Dundalk, Gateway Hotel
- 13 October – Mullingar, Mullingar Park Hotel
- 15 October – Dublin, Aviva
Further details, eligibility guidance and application information are available through the dedicated DTIF webpage on enterprise.gov.ie.
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What the new DTIF call means for Irish enterprises
The latest DTIF funding round gives ambitious companies an opportunity to develop technology alongside established businesses and research specialists. It also supports the wider national objective of improving productivity, competitiveness, sustainability and high-quality employment.
For applicants, the strongest proposals will need more than an innovative idea. They will need a credible partnership, a clear route to market, robust matched funding and evidence that the technology can deliver lasting economic or societal benefits.
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Article/Image Courtesy: Enterprise Ireland
Key takeaway
The eighth DTIF funding call makes €40 million available for collaborative technology projects in Ireland. Eligible consortia should begin forming partnerships early and ensure applications are submitted before the 3 February 2027 deadline.
