Public schemes in Northern Ireland, Ireland and across the UK fund AI and digital work. We'll tell you which ones fit your business and help you apply.
When we first meet, we look at your size, sector and location, and which schemes are open right now.
We write the scope and costs the way each scheme asks for them, so your application is clear and complete.
Most schemes need approval before work begins, so we plan the timing with you. No surprises on cost.
Invest NI and the AI Collaboration Centre run the main schemes for local businesses.
For businesses investing in advanced digital technology, including AI, machine learning and data.
Fully funded AI and data science support for registered Northern Ireland SMEs, alongside workshops and training.
Your Local Enterprise Office or Enterprise Ireland, depending on your size.
Helps small businesses pay for new business software. You first complete a Digital for Business project with your Local Enterprise Office.
For Enterprise Ireland clients: support to scope a digital or AI project, then help funding a larger one.
See Enterprise Ireland →Open to businesses in Northern Ireland and Great Britain.
If a build solves a genuine technical problem, part of the cost may be claimable as R&D tax relief. Not every AI project qualifies, so check with your accountant.
See the guidance →Funding competitions for new products and processes, including AI. They open and close through the year.
See Innovate UK →Details checked in October 2026. Schemes change, so we confirm what's open when we speak.
Each scheme makes its own decision. We'll tell you honestly how strong an application looks.
Most schemes won't fund work that has already begun, so we sort the application first.
You normally pay for the work, then claim the grant back. We plan the timing with you.
Some schemes are only for agency clients, others only for businesses that aren't. We check which applies to you.
We'll look at which schemes fit your business when we first meet.
Verona AI