A software enterprise plans to generate 23 employment opportunities by investing £1.4 million into establishing a new research and development (R&D) facility in Londonderry. Aveva, headquartered in Cambridge, which initiated operations in Derry in 2015, announced that this capital outlay is projected to double its employee count in the north west region. The company indicated that this expansion would establish its second R&D facility, with a primary focus on the development of its products. This product development encompasses software designed for managing extensive data sources for clients, and the new location is expected to enable the company to address increasing demand. Iju Raj, who serves as the executive vice-president of R&D, stated that the decision to expand within Northern Ireland was made owing to its robust talent pool, established connections with local universities, and effective placement and graduate programs. He further commented, “Our decision to expand in Derry is a testament to the wealth of talent available in the north west and the support, advice and guidance we’ve received from Invest NI.” He added, “This R&D centre will be crucial for developing products that keep us at the forefront of technological advancements, enabling us to maintain our competitive edge in the global market.” Brendan McGuigan, the director of advanced manufacturing and engineering at Invest NI, expressed approval of the announcement. He remarked, “This project is an exciting addition to Northern Ireland’s thriving software sector. By combining our local talent pool with Invest NI support, Aveva has chosen Derry as the strategic location for its second UK R&D hub, securing a bright future for the company’s operations here.” Economy Minister Conor Murphy, during a visit to Aveva’s facilities at the Innovation Centre in Derry, acknowledged what he described as “a significant investment” in the north west. He stated, “This strategic expansion by Aveva is a strong testament of its confidence in the north west’s skilled workforce.” He concluded, “Aveva’s long-term investment in Derry reinforces the region’s potential as a leading technology and innovation hub and I am confident this investment will deliver lasting benefits for both the local economy”. Concurrently, Ergo, a prominent Irish IT company, intends to generate 40 positions in Belfast over the forthcoming three-year period. These roles will be situated at the company’s recently established office within Clockwise, River House, adjacent to Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter. Economy Minister Conor Murphy indicated that the £4.5 million investment is projected to inject nearly £2.4 million into the local economy each year. Presently, Erge employs 700 individuals across its operations in Ireland, the UK, the United States, Romania, and New Zealand. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC bears no responsibility for the content found on external websites. Information regarding our policy on external linking is available.

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