The North West Centre for Advanced Manufacturing 2 (NWCAM2) officially launched at Catalyst in Derry, marking a major step in cross-border innovation for life and health sciences. The project, backed by €9,981,033 from the PEACEPLUS Innovation Challenge Fund, aims to help 30 SMEs develop environmentally sustainable manufacturing processes and products, enhancing competitiveness and reducing emissions.

Delivered in partnership with Atlantic Technology University, North West Regional College, Ulster University, Trinity College Dublin, and Irish Manufacturing Research, NWCAM2 builds on the achievements of the original programme, which included rapid-response ventilator technology during the COVID-19 pandemic. The initiative focuses on embedding advanced technologies such as additive manufacturing, digital tools, and sustainable materials into SMEs’ operations.

Officials highlighted the strategic value of cross-border collaboration. Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald MLA noted that combining academic expertise with practical industry implementation will strengthen regional innovation capacity, support job creation, and promote a greener economy. SEUPB Chief Executive Gina McIntyre described NWCAM2 as a model for linking research and industry to accelerate economic development in post-conflict regions.

Catalyst CEO Steve Orr emphasised that the programme unites academia and industry to deliver tangible progress in sustainable manufacturing while creating opportunities and strengthening communities in both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.

The PEACEPLUS Programme, co-funded by the European Union, UK and Irish governments, and the Northern Ireland Executive, supports collaborative innovation to foster economic growth and regional stability.

Explore the full details of NWCAM2 and its impact on SMEs and health sciences manufacturing across Ireland in the complete story.