Minister for Trade, Enterprise and Employment Micheál Martin has announced €8.5 million in funding to help commercialise research and technology from Irish universities and colleges.
The funding, which was announced by Mr Martin in University College Cork today, will be used to appoint specialists to develop strong links between universities and the commercial sector.
"The appointment of these new technology transfer professionals will spearhead the drive to commercialise the ideas and technologies produced in Irish research institutions," said Mr Martin.
"If we are to remain a world leader in the high tech sector then strong links between our researchers and our entrepreneurs is vital."
The funding is part of the €30 million Technology Transfer Initiative, which is overseen by Enterprise Ireland.
Appointments will be made immediately at UCC, NUI Galway, NUI Maynooth, the Royal College of Surgeons and UCD, and other appointments will follow later.
