Research &Technological Development & Innovation (RTDI) Schemes for 2000-2006

R&D Capability

This scheme aims to build the capability of firms to carry out R&D at a significant and continuous level. It supports forms to make substantial new investment in RTDI facilities and thus make them more competitive in global markets.

The scheme supports substantial new investment (principally staff, equipment, laboratories) beyond the current level of R&D activity. This scheme is administered by both Enterprise Ireland and Industrial Development Authority, each in respect of its client firms.

Competitive RTDI Scheme

This scheme supports R&D projects undertaken by manufacturing or internationally traded service firms in Ireland. It seeks:

• To encourage and support high quality, high risk R&D projects
• To encourage the continuation of an RTDI culture in firms; and
• To encourage company participation in collaborative R&D projects, both national and international

Particular focus is on established companies planning their first R&D projects & those significantly developing their existing R&D activity. This scheme is administered by Enterprise Ireland and projects are approved by the RTDI Committee, whose membership includes representation from the private sector, industrial development agencies, Third level sector and the Office of Science and Technology.

Innovation Management

As firms increase their R&D spend there is a need to develop their management ability to control the process and absorb the benefits resulting from this increased spend.

This scheme is targeted at first time R&D performers and at firms with a track record in R&D where the firm would benefit from better management systems. The scheme includes the introduction of new technologies into firms with technological deficits and the employment of experienced or recently qualified science or engineering graduates.

The action provides education training and consultancy to firms to enhance skills and to ensure that the best practice tools and techniques are embedded in companies. This scheme is administered by Enterprise Ireland.

Technology Transfer

Supports the licensing of technologies by companies in Ireland as an efficient way of bringing new products to the market quickly. This scheme provides support and expert resources to advise and guide companies through the process of defining technology needs; identifying and evaluation of technology offers; and the process of negotiation.

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