Tuesday, 7 July
IN-PERSON: SPEAR Centre SME Engagement Roadshow – Buncrana
Tuesday, 7 July | 12 – 2PM
The SPEAR Centre SME Engagement Roadshow is coming to the ii this July as part of a wider cross-border series of regional events taking place across Letterkenny, Derry~Londonderry, Ballymena and Buncrana.
Hosted by the SPEAR Centre (Semiconductor Photonics Education and Research Centre), the roadshow brings together businesses, researchers and innovation support organisations to explore how emerging technologies such as photonics and AI-driven solutions can support business growth, productivity and competitiveness.
This event will introduce SMEs to fully funded innovation opportunities available through the SPEAR Centre, with a focus on practical applications of advanced technologies across a wide range of sectors.
Attendees will hear insights into real-world industry applications, learn about opportunities for research collaboration and technology adoption, and have the chance to engage directly with project partners and regional stakeholders.
The session is open to SMEs from all sectors across the Ireland-Northern Ireland border region, particularly businesses interested in innovation, digital transformation, productivity improvements, and future growth opportunities.
Lunch will be provided and there will be opportunities for informal networking throughout the event.
Other Roadshow Locations
📍 Letterkenny – The CoLab | 17 June 2026
📍 Derry~Londonderry – Catalyst | 18 June 2026
📍 Ballymena – Ecos Hub | 6 July 2026
📍 Buncrana – ii – inishowen innovation | 7 July 2026
Buncrana Event Details
📅 Tuesday, 7 July 2026
⏰ Time: 12 – 2pm
📍 ii – inishowen innovation, St. Oran’s Road, Buncrana, Co. Donegal F93 RT73
👉 Registration required as spaces are limited. Click on the “View Events Website” link below.
About the SPEAR Centre
The SPEAR Centre (Semiconductor Photonics Education and Research Centre) is a PEACEPLUS-funded cross-border initiative supporting SMEs across the 12 counties of the Ireland-Northern Ireland region to explore and adopt photonics and AI-driven solutions.
The project brings together Atlantic Technological University, Ulster University, Tyndall National Institute and industry partner Seagate to help businesses innovate, scale and compete internationally.
https://www.wisar.ie/projects/spear-centre
Connected Hubs is a central driver of the Irish National Hub Network, a Government of Ireland initiative aimed at establishing and strategically expanding a network of interconnected hub facilities throughout the country. Connected Hubs is a Government of Ireland initiative under Our Rural Future. Connected Hubs is managed by the Western Development Commission in conjunction with the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht.
