THE new chairman of an industry Cluster – based at the Athlone campus of Technological University of the Shannon – has promised to build on the foundation which saw €2.2million worth of projects secured to date and 47 manufacturing companies supported in expanding their global market reach.
The Advanced Technologies in Manufacturing (ATIM) Cluster – whose mission is to drive innovation, competitiveness and sustainability within Ireland’s manufacturing sector – officially launched its Impact Report and Strategy for 2025-2027 at Grant Engineering, Birr, Couty Offaly, today (Friday, April 11th).
Set up in 2021, the ATIM Cluster is hosted by Technological University of the Shannon and is funded by Enterprise Ireland under the Regional Technology Cluster Fund.
ATIM’s members – all from the midlands of Ireland – span a variety of sectors including: automation and robotics, medtech and life sciences, engineering and precision manufacturing, polymer and plastics, food and beverage processing- , electronics and ICT, and sustainable manufacturing.
By fostering partnerships between industry, academia, and government, ATIM ensures its members are equipped to thrive in an increasingly digital and sustainable global market.
The launch event celebrated ATIM’s progress since its inception in 2021 and set the course for the next phase of its development.
Since its formation, ATIM has become a key enabler of collaboration and innovation across Ireland’s manufacturing ecosystem, supporting over 100 plus members from a range of sectors.
Through its initiatives, ATIM has successfully driven a significant impact on the industry, including:
4,500 participants engaged in workshops, events, and initiatives.
€2.2 million secured for cluster-led and member-driven innovation projects.
97% of members reporting greater awareness of business and support opportunities.
47 companies supported in expanding their international market reach.
Supported over 400 business to business, business to research connections
At the launch was Peter Burke, Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, who stated: “As we face challenging times, the need to innovate and remain agile has never been more important. The ATIM Cluster has demonstrated the tangible impact that strategic collaboration can deliver for companies, helping them quickly adapt, grow, and compete on a global scale. Initiatives like ATIM’s foster the kind of flexible partnerships that are essential to respond to evolving industry needs, strengthening Ireland’s manufacturing sector, and ensuring its long-term success.”
Niall Fay, Incoming Chairperson of ATIM and Managing Director of Grant Engineering, shared his excitement for the future of the Cluster, and paid tribute to the work of outgoing chairperson, Tony Woods, saying:” I am delighted to step into the role of Chairperson and unveiling today will empower our members to drive innovation, embrace cutting-edge technologies, and expand internationally. By fostering deeper collaboration and focusing on the evolving needs of our members, we are creating a dynamic and thriving ecosystem that will strengthen both the regional and Irish manufacturing sector.”
Dr Liam Brown, TUS Vice President Research, Development and Innovation, said “TUS is delighted to host the Enterprise Ireland-supported ATIM cluster. This leading industry led powerhouse addresses both the sectoral learning and skills agenda as well as advances Research Development and Innovation (RDI) opportunities for the manufacturing sector that make a meaningful difference and significant impact to our member companies and beyond.“
Tom Cusack, Divisional Manager, Industrial and Life Sciences, Enterprise Ireland / Jenny Jenny Melia, Executive Director at Enterprise Ireland, added: “ATIM has proven to be a cornerstone of Ireland’s manufacturing ecosystem. The cluster has fostered innovation, connectivity, and business growth, helping companies enhance their global competitiveness. As ATIM enters its next phase, we are proud to continue supporting its mission and look forward to seeing the continued success of its members.”
Caitriona Mordan, ATIM Cluster Manager, emphasised the cluster’s progress and its forward-looking vision:
“ATIM sits at the heart of Ireland’s manufacturing ecosystem, acting as a neutral platform that bridges the gap between industry players and service providers. In a short time, we’ve built a foundation of trust and collaboration, and today’s strategy for 2025-2027 builds on these achievements. Moving forward, our focus is on deepening engagement, addressing real challenges, and driving innovation while empowering our members to navigate the evolving global landscape and ensuring their continued growth and success in an increasingly competitive world.”