Research, Development & Innovation

Ireland’s dynamic RD&I sector is driven by an exceptional level of collaboration between industry, academia, government agencies and regulatory authorities. Backed by a pro-business Government policy, these stakeholders work effectively as an ambitious national team to win complex, high-value RD&I investments for Ireland.

The Irish Government has made a clear commitment to supporting the RD&I sector in its Strategy for Science, Technology and Innovation, which provides funding and support to fuel innovation across industry, research and education.

In 2009 the number of investments in RD&I increased 10% on 2008, in keeping with the Government’s Strategy to develop the Smart Economy. This equates to 49% of all investments secured during the year. The level of RD&I investments was in excess of €500m; with IBM, Boston Scientific, Citi, Intel, Pfizer, Helsinn, HP, Paypal, Colgate-Palmolive, Alps Electric and SITA some of the key investors.

A key aspect of Government support is a flexible 25% tax credit on the cost of eligible RD&I activity and of any building with a 35% RD&I activity level over four years.

Ireland’s Smart Economy is the combined forces of its enterprise economy and its place as a world leader in innovation. The key to our strength in innovation lies in the utilization of our human capital, something that Ireland has always excelled in. By effectively harnessing the creativity and skills of our people, Ireland as an FDI location, has the ability to translate these components into tangible processes, products and services.

A second aspect of Ireland’s Smart Economy is a strong focus on Green Technology and the responsible use of natural elements to enhance enterprise potential whilst moving away from fossil-fuel based production.