ATU partners in the €7.6 million project to support local SMEs

The research carried out by ATU on the Powering Research & Innovation for Advanced Manufacturing (PRISM) project will empower local cross-border SMEs in the agri-food & mineral processing industries to lead the way in decarbonisation

South West College (SWC) officially launched the PRISM Project, a transformative €7.6 million initiative designed to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in developing new and innovative products and processes whilst addressing the decarbonisation challenges that are associated with three sector areas that are conventionally difficult to decarbonise.

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The project, supported by the PEACEPLUS Programme and managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB), brings together a consortium of six strategic partners to address the urgent challenges of decarbonisation within the manufacturing sector.

The PRISM consortium comprises SWC, Atlantic Technical University, Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre (AMIC) at Queen’s University Belfast, Dublin City University, North West Regional College, and Cavan Innovation and Technology Centre.

The initiative was co-designed on a cross-border basis, incorporating significant industry input from 24 participating SMEs and six sectoral trade associations, including the Mineral Products Association Northern Ireland, the Irish Concrete Federation, Northern Ireland Polymer Association, Plastics Ireland, Food & Drink Association, and Food & Drink Ireland.

PRISM aims to accelerate the adoption of low carbon technologies among 24 SMEs split across three key manufacturing clusters: Mineral Processing, Polymer Processing & Composites, and Agrifood. By leveraging cutting-edge research and innovation expertise, the project will drive economic growth and environmental improvement throughout the region. Activities will be coordinated from SWC’s Omagh campus, with a reach extending across ten counties: Antrim, Armagh, Derry-Londonderry, Donegal, Down, Fermanagh, Monaghan, Leitrim, Louth, and Tyrone.

Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, Peter Burke TD, said: “The PRISM project is a vital investment in the future of our manufacturing sector and the SMEs that drive it. It is a powerful example of how targeted investment and collaboration can unlock innovation and growth for SMEs. This €7.6 million initiative will support 24 businesses in developing new products and processes, while helping them overcome the complex challenges of industrial decarbonisation.

“By connecting SMEs with cutting-edge research and sectoral expertise, PRISM will accelerate the adoption of low-carbon technologies and position enterprises at the forefront of sustainable manufacturing. This project reflects our commitment to empowering SMEs to innovate, grow, and lead in the transition to a greener economy, delivering economic and environmental impact across ten counties. I commend South West College and its partners for their vision and leadership with this transformative project.”

SEUPB Chief Executive, Gina McIntyre, added: “The launch of the PRISM Project demonstrates a continued commitment to socio-economic regeneration and transformation. Through PEACEPLUS, we are proud to support this ambitious initiative that brings together research excellence, enterprise innovation and cross-border collaboration.

“By investing in sustainable product development, advanced manufacturing practices, and applied research, PRISM will help build a more resilient, low-carbon economy, and one that is ready to meet future challenges while creating real opportunities for growth today.”

Dr Suresh Pillal, Atlantic Technological University said: “The PRISM project aims to accelerate the adoption of low-carbon technologies among 24 small and medium-sized enterprises operating within three key manufacturing clusters. By leveraging the cutting-edge research capabilities, technical expertise, and facilities available at ATU and across partner institutions, the initiative will foster practical innovation that enhances the circular economy and sustainability in the region.

Dr Ehiaze Ehimen, Atlantic Technological University added: “The research carried out by ATU on the PEACEPLUS PRISM project will empower local cross-border SMEs in the agri-food & mineral processing industries to lead the way in decarbonisation. This is especially since most SMEs operating in this space have the WILL to decarbonise and be more sustainable, but unsure of HOW to progress. PRISM will therefore support in turning such sustainability goals into reality, thus bridging the gap between ambition and the technical ‘how to’”

Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald said: “This collaboration between academia and industry will accelerate innovation and help reduce CO₂ emissions.

“PRISM’s outreach will engage over 1,000 participants, ensuring sector-specific insights are shared widely to strengthen SME capabilities and stimulate economic growth across the region.”

Celine McCartan, Principal and Chief Executive of SWC, expressed her pleasure that PRISM is now moving into the delivery phase and highlighted the support available to local companies saying: “I am pleased that South West College has launched the

PRISM project and that the College and our valued partners are able to support a range of companies from across the region to meet the challenges of achieving Net Zero.

“We look forward to collaborating with our partners, industry and Trade Associations both within Northern Ireland and cross-border in the delivery of this significant initiative. I look forward to learning of the project impacts during the next four years and I extend best wishes to my colleagues and staff from our partners as we commence project delivery.

“I would like to extend my gratitude to SEUPB for their support and investment in this vital project."