DSIT (Department for Science, Innovation and Technology) Minister Peter Kyle MP has announced a £30 million investment for Northern Ireland through the local innovation partnerships fund.
 
The fund will invest in projects in Northern Ireland that boost innovation-led regional growth.
 
Speaking in support of the announcement, Alliance MP Sorcha Eastwood said: "Northern Ireland is a fantastic place to do business, with many start-ups as well as established companies, this funding will boost economic growth and spur on innovation."
 
"In my constituency of Lagan Valley, companies like Cirdan have already benefited from the UK Investment Fund and are leading the way in innovations in medicine, which are improving life for people around the world. I'm certain that this money will allow other businesses throughout Northern Ireland to thrive in the same way.
 
"Lagan Valley is strategically located along the Belfast-Dublin economic corridor and is already home to many businesses that will be able to benefit from this funding in a way that will improve regional economic balance."