🚀 Founder of Digital Strada was glad to have joined Digital Catapult’s Digital Twin SME Network Event at Glandore Belfast

🚀 Founder of Digital Strada was glad to have joined Digital Catapult’s Digital Twin SME Network Event at Glandore Belfast

by | Feb 5, 2025 | 3D, Belfast, Blog, Business Events, Digital Twins, Immersive, News, Resources, UK, Uncategorized | 0 comments

🚀 Last week’s Digital Twin SME Network event at Glandore Belfast, hosted by Digital Catapult, wasn’t just a gathering—it was a launchpad for Northern Ireland’s ambitions to lead the global digital twin revolution.

As the Founder of Digital Strada, I’m honored to share insights from this transformative event and outline how our company’s cutting-edge research aligns with the UK Digital Twin Centre’s vision.

🌍 The UK Digital Twin Centre: A Game-Changer for Industry

Slated for launch in early 2025 with £37.6m in funding, the UK Digital Twin Centre (UKDTC) represents a seismic shift in how industries like aerospace, maritime, and smart cities will leverage virtual replicas. Backed by Belfast Region City Deal, Innovate UK, and Invest Northern Ireland, the Centre aims to:

  • Reduce development costs by 30% through shared infrastructure and AI-driven workflows.
  • Accelerate prototyping for complex systems like offshore wind farms and autonomous vessels.
  • Train 500+ professionals in digital twin deployment by 2026.

For Digital Strada, this initiative dovetails with our core work in 3D laser scanning, BIM integration, and drone-captured asset ecosystems. But we’re pushing even further—exploring next-gen technologies like Gaussian Splatting and Neural Radiance Fields (NeRF) to redefine reality capture.

 

🏢 Delivering Value Today: Digital Strada’s Client-Driven Innovations

While advancing next-gen tools, we’re already deploying 3D laser scanning and reality capture to solve real-world challenges for clients across sectors:

1. Hospitality & Retail: Immersive Virtual Experiences
By capturing accurate 3D models of hotels, restaurants, and retail spaces, we empower clients to:

  • Create virtual tours that boost booking conversions by up to 30%.
  • Streamline renovations with clash detection in heritage buildings, preserving architectural integrity.
  • Train staff via VR simulations of high-footfall environments, improving operational readiness.

2. Construction & Architecture: Precision at Scale
Our work with infrastructure developers includes:

  • As-built documentation of industrial plants, reducing rework costs by 22% through discrepancy-free BIM models.
  • Progress tracking for large-scale projects using biweekly drone LiDAR scans, enabling real-time stakeholder alignment.
  • Safety audits via AI-analyzed point clouds to identify hazards like structural cracks or improper equipment placement.

3. Asset Management: Future-Proofing Investments
For facilities managers, we can deliver digital twins that:

  • Map HVAC and electrical systems in 3D, cutting maintenance downtime by 40%.
  • Simulate flood/fire scenarios to optimize emergency response plans.
  • Integrate IoT data streams (e.g., energy usage, occupancy sensors) for predictive analytics.

These projects underscore how reality capture isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a bridge between physical and digital worlds, driving ROI today while laying groundwork for tomorrow’s AI-augmented twins.

 

💡 Beyond Traditional 3D Modeling: Digital Strada’s R&D Frontier

While traditional photogrammetry and LiDAR remain staples, we’re pioneering advanced techniques to solve critical industry challenges:

1. Gaussian Splatting for Dynamic Environments

Unlike static mesh models, Gaussian Splatting enables real-time rendering of complex scenes by representing objects as millions of anisotropic 3D Gaussians. This approach, refined in our Belfast labs, allows:

  • Higher fidelity reconstructions of irregular surfaces (e.g., industrial machinery, heritage sites).
  • Faster processing of drone-captured data for large-scale infrastructure projects.
  • Seamless integration with IoT sensor streams for live digital twin updates.

2. Neural Radiance Fields (NeRF)

Our experiments with NeRF—a deep learning method that synthesizes novel views from 2D images—are unlocking:

  • Photorealistic virtual walkthroughs for real estate and hospitality clients.
  • Material property inference (e.g., thermal conductivity, structural stress) from visual data alone.
  • Lighting-agnostic models that perform reliably in low-light industrial settings.

3. 3D Gaussian Splatting for Real-Time Radiance Fields

Building on SIGGRAPH 2023 breakthroughs, we’re researching on how to adapt 3D Gaussian Splatting (3DGS) to achieve >100 FPS rendering of radiance fields—a leap critical for applications like:

  • VR/AR-guided facility maintenance with sub-millimeter precision.
  • Autonomous drone navigation in GPS-denied environments.
  • Instant defect detection in manufacturing pipelines via AI-powered anomaly mapping.

🤝 Synergy with the UKDTC: Bridging Research and Industry

The UKDTC’s six flagship use cases—developed with partners like Thales UK and Artemis Technologies—resonate deeply with our R&D goals:

Use Case Digital Strada’s Contribution
Offshore Wind Farm Digital Twins Gaussian Splatting for real-time turbine stress analysis
Smart Port Logistics NeRF-based cargo volume estimation + LiDAR integration
Aerospace Prototyping 3DGS-accelerated CFD (computational fluid dynamics) models

The Centre’s £61m economic impact and 230 high-skilled jobs forecast by 2033 align with our mission to position Belfast as a global deep-tech hub.

🌱 Sustainability Through Innovation

Digital twins aren’t just about efficiency—they’re a climate imperative. By partnering with the UKDTC, we aim to:

  • Cut construction waste by 25% via AI-optimized BIM workflows.
  • Reduce maritime emissions through digital twin-guided route planning.
  • Extend asset lifespans using predictive maintenance models trained on Gaussian-splatted data.

 

🔮 The Road Ahead: Strategic Pathways for 3D Digital Twin Innovation

As the UK Digital Twin Centre gains momentum, Digital Strada is pursuing multiple routes to advance next-generation digital twin technologies while fostering market-ready solutions:

  1. Academic-Industry Synergy
    By partnering with leading institutions in the tech sector, we’re refining neural rendering techniques like NeRF optimization to bridge the gap between theoretical research and industrial applications. These collaborations aim to solve challenges such as real-time data processing and adaptive model training for dynamic environments.
  2. Sector-Specific Commercialization
    We’re targeting high-impact industries for pilot projects, including:
    • Retail: Developing real-time inventory tracking systems using 3D Gaussian Splatting (3DGS) and drone-captured 360° scans.
    • Construction: Integrating radiance field rendering with BIM workflows to detect design clashes and reduce material waste.
    • Energy: Deploying physics-informed NeRF models to simulate infrastructure stress under extreme weather conditions.

  3. Democratizing Advanced Tools
    To accelerate industry-wide adoption, we’re exploring open-source frameworks that simplify Gaussian Splatting workflows for SMEs. This includes modular codebases for photogrammetry-NeRF hybrid pipelines and lightweight 3DGS libraries optimized for GPU-limited environments.

These pathways not only strengthen Northern Ireland’s position in the global digital twin ecosystem but also create scalable, interoperable solutions that address urgent needs in sustainability, automation, and data-driven decision-making. 

🔗 Join the Revolution
The future of digital twins is bright, interconnected, and built right here in Belfast.

Explore the UK Digital Twin Centre’s vision and after that choose to connect with us to learn how Gaussian Splatting and NeRF can transform your operations on top of 3D Laser Scanning and other Reality Capture assets.

#DigitalTwins #FutureTech #BelfastInnovation #DeepTech #NeRF #GaussianSplatting #SmartCities

🌐 At Digital Strada, we’re not just building digital twins—we’re engineering tomorrow’s reality. 🏗️💻 

Advancing Digital Twin Technology 🔮

Digital Strada’s expertise in creating immersive, 4K-resolution, photo-realistic 3D digital twins for hotels, restaurants, venues, and various other building types aligns perfectly with the region’s focus on digital innovation. 🏨

Our technology has the potential to contribute significantly to the UK Digital Twin Centre recently announced for Belfast, which aims to revolutionize how industries develop products, services, and systems across the UK.

Growth and Innovation through Immersive Software 📊

🚀 As we embark on this journey, I’m filled with enthusiasm for the future of Northern Ireland’s software industry. At Digital Strada, we’re at the forefront of 3D Digital Twins technology, and I believe our perspective will be valuable in shaping the sector’s future.

Let's talk about 3D

 

🚀 See our Digital Twins portfolio and Contact us for a new project.

🎉 Help your customers to Experience Immersive Communication with a Digital Twin for your hotel, resort, restaurant, museum, factory, real estate project or space.

☎️ Leave a comment with your business and let’s connect to deliver a 3D Digital Twin Solution for your Facility Managemnt Team.

Digital Strada Joins Software NI: Advancing 3D Digital Twin Innovation in Northern Ireland

Digital Strada Joins Software NI: Advancing 3D Digital Twin Innovation in Northern Ireland

by | Nov 26, 2024 | Belfast, Blog, Business Events, Ireland, News, Northern Ireland, Software, Software Development, UK, Uncategorized | 0 comments

We are thrilled to announce that Digital Strada has officially become a member of Software NI, the leading trade body representing the software industry in Northern Ireland with the Founder of Digital Strada becoming an individual member of Software NI 🎉. 

This strategic move aligns perfectly with our mission to deliver cutting-edge 3D Digital Twin solutions and immersive experiences for businesses across various sectors. 💼

 

You can Connect with us with us on Software NI Directory: https://softwareni.glueup.com/my/memberships/1978998/

Embracing Northern Ireland’s Tech Vision 🌟

As a Belfast-based company specializing in 3D Digital Twins, we are excited to be part of Software NI’s ambitious ‘50 and Five by 35‘ strategy. 📈

This initiative aims to grow the local software sector to 50,000 jobs and £5 billion in gross value added (GVA) by 2035. By joining Software NI, we are positioning ourselves at the forefront of Northern Ireland’s burgeoning tech landscape. 🌱

 

Leveraging Opportunities for Growth 🚀

Our membership in Software NI opens up new avenues for collaboration and growth. We look forward to:

  • Participating in industry-focused forums and events 🗣️
  • Accessing valuable resources and support for scaling our business 📚
  • Contributing to the development of software workforce programmes 👥
  • Exploring potential partnerships with other innovative companies in the region 🤝

Advancing Digital Twin Technology 🔮

Digital Strada’s expertise in creating immersive, 4K-resolution, photo-realistic 3D digital twins for hotels, restaurants, venues, and various other building types aligns perfectly with the region’s focus on digital innovation. 🏨

Our technology has the potential to contribute significantly to the UK Digital Twin Centre recently announced for Belfast, which aims to revolutionize how industries develop products, services, and systems across the UK.

Commitment to Northern Ireland’s Tech Ecosystem 🌿

As a member of Software NI, we are committed to playing our part in establishing Northern Ireland as a global centre of software excellence. 🌍

We believe our specialized focus on 3D Digital Twins, virtual tours, and immersive experiences will contribute to the diverse and innovative software landscape that Software NI is fostering. 🕶️ 

 About Software NI 🔭

Software NI was established in 2022 by a group of independent companies as the representative body for software engineering companies in Northern Ireland. 

Founding member companies have underwritten the organisation for its first three years of operation as it works towards an independent, fully sustainable industry funded model. The founding member companies are:

As a not-for-profit organisation, we exist to champion the NI software sector which contributes £1.7 billion annually and employs 23,000 people across approximately 2,200 businesses. We work with key decision makers to create the best conditions for people and companies in the sector. This includes the areas of Education, Skills, Sales and the future of the sector itself.

Vision  

Our 50 and 5 by 35 vision is to double the Software job footprint in NI to 50,000 jobs by 2035, at which point we estimate the software industry will contribute around £5 billion in Gross Value Added to our local economy.

Mission Statement:

“We are the voice of the software industry in Northern Ireland. We exist to lobby and support strategy and policy development to ensure that Northern Ireland becomes the world leading region for innovative software businesses leading to a sustainable and prosperous economic future.”

Looking Ahead 🔭

We are excited about the opportunities that lie ahead as we integrate into the Software NI community. 🌠

Our team is eager to collaborate with fellow members, share our expertise, and contribute to the growth of Northern Ireland’s software sector. 🤓

By joining forces with Software NI, Digital Strada is not just expanding its network; we are actively participating in shaping the future of technology in Northern Ireland. 🔮

We look forward to this new chapter and the innovative solutions we will create together. 💡

Let's talk about 3D

 

🚀 See our Digital Twins portfolio and Contact us for a new project.

🎉 Help your customers to Experience Immersive Communication with a Digital Twin for your hotel, resort, restaurant, museum, factory, real estate project or space.

☎️ Leave a comment with your business and let’s connect to deliver a 3D Digital Twin Solution for your Facility Managemnt Team.

Revolutionizing Industrial Ecosystems with 3D Digital Twins: A Visual Communication Asset for Manufacturing

Revolutionizing Industrial Ecosystems with 3D Digital Twins: A Visual Communication Asset for Manufacturing

by | Nov 20, 2024 | 3D, 3D Virtual Tours, Belfast, Blog, Digital Twins, Facility Management, Immersive, Ireland, Matterport, Northern Ireland, Spatial Data, Sustainability, UK, Uncategorized, Virtual Tours | 0 comments

👨‍💼 As the Founder and Solutions Architect of Digital Strada, a UK-based 3D digital twins and 3D laser scanning company, I’m excited to share how our services can transform visual communication within industrial ecosystems.

🚀 Recent insights from the World Economic Forum have highlighted the potential of digital technologies in reshaping manufacturing landscapes, and I’d like to explore how 3D digital twins can specifically benefit factory owners and managers in enhancing communication and decision-making processes across their industrial ecosystems.

The Power of 3D Digital Twins in Industrial Ecosystems 💡

🌐 3D digital twins are visually rich, interactive virtual replicas of physical assets, such as factories, buildings, and equipment.

🏗️ Detailed 3D models offer an invaluable comprehensive view of a facility’s layout, infrastructure, and assets at an Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) level of detail. This enables manufacturers to visualize their industrial ecosystems more effectively, communicate ideas clearly, and make informed decisions about facility management and modifications within their broader industrial network.

🔄 Here are the top 10 reasons why leaders in industrial ecosystems should consider implementing 3D digital twins as visual communication assets:

  1. Enhanced Stakeholder Communication in Industrial Ecosystems 🗣️
    Digital Strada’s 3D digital twins provide an intuitive, visual platform for communicating complex facility information to stakeholders at all levels of the industrial ecosystem. From supply chain partners to regulatory bodies, everyone can easily understand and interact with the facility’s layout and features.
  2. Improved Project Planning and Visualization Across the Industrial Network 📊
    When planning facility upgrades or renovations that may impact the broader industrial ecosystem, our 3D digital twins allow you to visualize proposed changes in context. This helps in making more informed decisions and reduces misunderstandings between different teams and partners involved in the project.
  3. Effective Training and Onboarding for Industrial Ecosystem Participants 🎓
    New employees and partners within the industrial ecosystem can familiarize themselves with the facility layout and equipment locations through interactive 3D models, even before stepping onto the factory floor. This visual approach enhances learning and reduces the time needed for physical orientation.
  4. Enhanced Safety Briefings for the Industrial Ecosystem ⚠️
    Use the 3D digital twin to conduct virtual safety walkthroughs, highlighting potential hazards and emergency routes that may affect various participants in the industrial ecosystem. This visual approach makes safety information more engaging and memorable for all stakeholders.
  5. Streamlined Contractor Briefings within the Industrial Network 👷
    External contractors and service providers within the industrial ecosystem can be given virtual tours of relevant areas before arriving on-site. This helps them prepare more effectively, reducing time spent on physical orientations and minimizing disruptions to ongoing operations.
  6. Improved Cross-Departmental and Inter-Company Collaboration 🤝
    The 3D digital twin serves as a common visual reference point for different departments and companies within the industrial ecosystem. Whether discussing production flow changes, maintenance schedules, or safety protocols, all teams can refer to the same visual model, enhancing understanding and cooperation.
  7. Enhanced Presentation of Facility Capabilities to Industrial Ecosystem Partners 🎥
    When showcasing your facility to potential clients, investors, or partners within the industrial ecosystem, a 3D digital twin provides an impressive and comprehensive view of your capabilities. It allows you to conduct virtual tours and highlight key features without the need for physical visits.
  8. Simplified Regulatory Compliance Demonstrations for Industrial Ecosystem Oversight 📋
    While not at a millimeter-level accuracy, our AEC-level 3D models can still be used to visually demonstrate compliance with various regulations that govern the industrial ecosystem. This can be particularly useful when communicating with inspectors or auditors.
  9. Efficient Space Utilization Planning within the Industrial Network 🏢
    The visual nature of 3D digital twins makes it easier to identify underutilized spaces and plan for better usage, considering the needs and interactions within the broader industrial ecosystem. Teams can collaboratively explore different layout options and visualize their impact before making physical changes.
  10. Enhanced Historical Documentation of Industrial Ecosystem Evolution 📚
    As your facility and its role in the industrial ecosystem evolves over time, the 3D digital twin serves as a visual record of changes. This can be invaluable for understanding the facility’s development, planning future changes, and maintaining institutional knowledge within the industrial network.

The Digital Strada Advantage for Industrial Ecosystems 🌟

At Digital Strada, we specialize in creating visually rich and interactive 3D digital twins using advanced scanning and modeling techniques. Our services go beyond simple 3D rendering – we provide a comprehensive visual communication tool that can be easily understood and utilized by various stakeholders across the industrial ecosystem. 🔧Our approach involves:

  1. Comprehensive 3D Scanning of Industrial Facilities 📸
    We use advanced equipment to capture the overall layout and key features of your facility, focusing on creating a visually accurate representation at an AEC level of detail that highlights its role in the industrial ecosystem.
  2. Interactive 3D Modeling for Industrial Communication 💻
    Our team of experts processes the scan data to create an engaging, navigable 3D model of your facility, optimized for visual communication within the industrial network.
  3. User-Friendly Interface for All Industrial Ecosystem Participants 👥
    We ensure that the 3D digital twin is accessible through an intuitive interface, allowing easy navigation and interaction for users with varying levels of technical expertise across the industrial ecosystem.
  4. Customization for Industrial Ecosystem Communication Needs 🎨
    We work with you to highlight key areas or features in the model that are most relevant to your communication objectives within the industrial network.

Conclusion 🏁

In today’s complex industrial ecosystems, clear and effective communication is crucial. 3D digital twins offer a powerful solution, providing a visually rich, interactive representation of your physical assets that can be used for a wide range of communication and decision-making processes across the industrial network.

🌐 3D models AEC-level detail is more than sufficient for most communication needs in industrial settings. They serve as an invaluable tool for enhancing understanding, facilitating collaboration, and improving decision-making across all levels of your organization and its place in the broader industrial ecosystem.

🤝At Digital Strada, we’re committed to helping UK, Ireland and European  manufacturers harness this technology to drive innovation in visual communication within industrial ecosystems. By partnering with us, you’re not just investing in a 3D model – you’re investing in a transformative tool that will enhance how you communicate about your facility, both internally and externally, strengthening your position in the industrial network.

💪 Don’t let your competitors gain the edge in effective communication within the industrial ecosystem. Contact Digital Strada today at digitalstrada.com to learn how we can help you create a 3D digital twin of your manufacturing facility and unlock its full potential as a visual communication asset for your entire industrial network. 

Let's talk about 3D

 

🚀 See our Digital Twins portfolio and Contact us for a new project.

🎉 Help your customers to Experience Immersive Communication with a Digital Twin for your hotel, resort, restaurant, museum, factory, real estate project or space.

☎️ Leave a comment with your business and let’s connect to deliver a 3D Digital Twin Solution for your Facility Managemnt Team.

Shaping a Sustainable Future: Inside the Global Innovation Summit 2024 at Queen’s University Belfast

Shaping a Sustainable Future: Inside the Global Innovation Summit 2024 at Queen’s University Belfast

by | Nov 13, 2024 | Belfast, Blog, Business Events, Sustainability, UK, Uncategorized | 0 comments

Global Innovation Summit 2024: Accelerating Sustainability and Economic Inclusion

🌟 The Global Federation of Competitiveness Councils (GFCC) 2024 Annual Meeting and Global Innovation Summit is set to take place at Queen’s University Belfast from November 11-15, 2024. This prestigious event, hosted by Queen’s University Belfast (QUB) and the Centre for Competitiveness (CforC), will focus on the theme of “Global Sustainability and Economic Inclusion”.

Queen’s University Belfast (QUB) and the Centre for Competitiveness (CforC) is hosting the Global Federation of Competitiveness Councils (GFCC) 2024 Annual Meeting and Global Innovation Summit in November, under the theme of Global Sustainability and Economic Inclusion.

This invitation-only leadership gathering offers a unique experience to participants from industry, government, academia, and civil society organisations to engage with peers, access first-hand global best practices, and take part in high-profile strategy conversations on the nexus connecting sustainability, innovation, and competitiveness.

The Global Innovation Summit engages a worldwide audience, policymakers, business leaders, and academics from five continents. The knowledge and best practices exchanged at the summit can inspire and shape the development of innovation strategies and policies.

At the core of the 2024 GFCC Annual Meeting and Global Innovation Summit is the understanding that global sustainability encompasses economic performance, protection of the environment and social inclusion.

The landmark event with key international political and corporate leaders will examine how, in an era of complex global challenges, innovation can act as the key driver of competitiveness, promoting global sustainability and economic inclusion on a worldwide scale.

Global Innovation Summit 2024 – Belfast – Day 1

🌐 It was a fantastic chance for me to connect with other international leaders and to gather insights on growing innovation and competitivenes beyond the UK. 

🌍 Event Overview:

• Dates: November 11-15, 2024
• Location: Queen’s University Belfast, Northern Ireland
• Theme: Accelerating Global Sustainability and Economic Inclusion

🎯 Key Objectives:

• Engage global leaders from industry, government, academia, and civil society
• Exchange knowledge and best practices in innovation and competitiveness
• Explore strategies for promoting sustainability and economic inclusion worldwide.

📅 Summit Structure:

The summit is organized into three main days, each with a specific focus:

  1. Innovation is the Key to Sustainability (November 12)
  2. Inclusiveness is a must for long-term sustainability (November 13)
  3. The Power of Partnership (November 14)

🌟 Highlights:

• World-renowned physicist Professor Brian Cox as keynote speaker.

• Participation of global leaders from business, industry, and academia
• Workshops, panel discussions, and networking opportunities
• Site visits to innovation hubs and tourist attractions in Northern Ireland

👥 Notable Speakers:

• Professor Brian Cox CBE FRS – CERN Physicist and Broadcaster
• Dr. Daniel Hulme – CEO of Satalia
• Minette Batters – Former President of the National Farmers’ Union
• Andy Burnham – Mayor of Greater Manchester
• Cecilia Harvey – Tech Women Today Founder

🏆 Event Sponsors:

The summit is supported by various organizations, including:

• Queen’s University Belfast
• Centre for Competitiveness
• Global Federation of Competitiveness Councils
• Invest Northern Ireland
• Tourism Northern Ireland

🌐 Global Impact:

This summit aims to inspire and shape the development of innovation strategies and policies worldwide, engaging policymakers, business leaders, and academics from five continents.

🚀 Key Topics:

• Technological advancements driving sustainability
• Social equity and inclusiveness in economic development
• Collaborative approaches for innovation and progress
• Decarbonization opportunities and challenges
• Food security and One Health approach
• Workforce preparation for the digital age
• AI’s role in transforming productivity
• Place-making innovation and regional economic development

The Global Innovation Summit 2024 at Queen’s University Belfast promises to be a landmark event, bringing together global leaders to address pressing challenges and explore innovative solutions for a sustainable and inclusive future.

Innovation is the Key to Sustainability

This first day will set the stage for the GIS 2024 and explore how technological advancements and creative solutions drive sustainability. Experts will discuss the latest innovations that are transforming industries and paving the way for a greener, more sustainable future.

Hosted by Wendy Austin

DAY 1 | NOVEMBER 12

09:00

Whitla Hall

Welcome to GIS 2024: Day 1

09:30

Whitla Hall

Agenda Introduction and Logistics

09:35

Whitla Hall

Keynote Speaker: Brian Cox CBE FRS – CERN Physicist and Broadcaster

Exploring the Universe

Brian brings scientific discovery to life for millions. He is also a leading experimental physicist, helping to recreate the conditions 1/000000000th of a second after Big Bang “to confirm the universe’s underlying simplicity.” With breathtaking images, Brian shows how science shocks and excites our imagination, as well as bringing humanity together. He also sets out the case for co-ordinated investment in science as key to job creation and growth.

10:35

Whitla Hall

Panel: Accelerating Global Sustainable Development Goals and Economic Inclusiveness

The climate crisis remains a critical issue, and countries and businesses are struggling to address it without jeopardizing the lives of various segments of society. People in advanced economies are raising their voices to protest initiatives that are perceived as eroding their quality of life, while people in emerging nations demand to be included as partners in global prosperity.

This equation is compounded by technological change and the rise of AI, which brings great promise but will also cause major shifts in job markets and societies. Innovation is essential to address this complex scenario at all levels, from policy frameworks to education and training models, from business models to institutions. In this session, GFCC Board Members will review the state of competitiveness in the world and share insights and concrete recommendations on how to break perceived trade-offs between sustainability, technological acceleration, and inclusiveness.

11:20

Whitla Hall

Navigating the AI Revolution: Preparing for a World of Digital Transformation

Join AI expert Daniel Hulme, CEO of Satalia, for a thought-provoking session exploring the key issues emerging alongside the rise of AI and digitalization. Hulme will share his view of the ethical considerations, societal impact, and transformative potential of AI and other emerging technologies and offer insights for universities and businesses to navigate this evolving landscape and prepare for the future of work.

12:05

Whitla Hall

Launch of GFCC Call to Action

During this session, GFCC leadership will introduce the “Accelerate Global Sustainability and Economic Inclusiveness” Call-to-Action and comment on some of the key proposals highlighted in this flagship document co-created with the GFCC community.

12:15

Whitla Hall

GFCC Members and Fellows Photo

A photo of all GFCC members and fellows in attendance will be taken during this time.

12:20

Lunch

*Private Lunch for speakers/guests*

Time available for attendees to view exhibition space

13:30

Whitla Hall

Transforming the World via Innovation in Energy

The energy transition demands bold innovation. In this session, Stephen Gallagher, Director of Strategy for Energy Customer Solutions at SSE, will showcase cutting-edge innovations propelling the energy transition. Discover how SSE is leading the charge in developing and implementing solutions for a cleaner, more sustainable energy landscape. Gain valuable insights into the technologies and strategies shaping the future of energy.

13:45

Whitla Hall

Panel: Seizing the Decarbonization Opportunity

Decarbonization poses opportunities for investment and new business development while requiring innovation across the board. However, it also comes with risks and challenges, as the development of any new industry inevitably does.

To realize the energy transition opportunity and decarbonize industries, the world needs new technologies to be translated into real-world applications. Achieving acceptable price points and finding early adopters of these technologies is critical. In this panel session, participants will share lessons learned on how to navigate decarbonization processes from policy, business, and community perspectives.

14:30

Whitla Hall

Keynote Speaker: Minette Batters

Bridging Food security & One Health is pivotal to society

14:55

Whitla Hall

Panel Conversation: Harnessing Partnership to Advance Food Security and One Health

The challenge of providing the worlds growing population with access to safe, affordable and nutritious food all the time and in ways our planet can sustain and against backdrop of climate change and biodiversity loss continues to be a major challenge for society.

The Covid-19 pandemic has illuminated the deep connection between animals, humans and the wider planetary environment and a One Health approach is receiving increased political attention as a solution to some of the greatest health threats we face today including increasing zoonotic disease emergence, antimicrobial resistance (AMR), food safety and security.  Our panel of experts will discuss the inextricable links between Global Food Security and One Health and argue that enhanced and accelerated innovation, investment and partnership are required to support society.

15:40

Peter Froggatt Centre

Transition to workshops

GIS 2024 organisers will introduce the workshops, explain the dynamics and direct participants to their respective locations.

The GIS 2024 workshops will be progressive dialogues that will build on the ideas discussed in the day’s plenary panel conversations. Each workshop will begin with the moderator highlighting key recommendations and ideas from the panels. Following this, kick-off discussants will provide their insights and suggestions for advancing the agenda related to the workshop’s theme.

After all discussants have shared their views, the floor will open for additional contributions, with the moderator potentially inviting comments from plenary session moderators present. The workshop will conclude with the moderator summarizing the three key recommendations for the thematic area.

15:55

Peter Froggatt Centre

Workshop 1: Seizing the Decarbonization Opportunity

15:55

Peter Froggatt Centre

Workshop 2: Transforming the World via Innovation in Energy

Transforming the World via Innovation in Energy

15:55

Peter Froggatt Centre

Workshop 3: Food Security & One Health: innovation to accelerate solutions and improve economic growth, climate resilience and the nation’s health

15:55

Peter Froggatt Centre

Workshop 4: Advancing Resources Productivity

15:55

Peter Froggatt Centre

Workshop 5: Accelerating Sustainability and Inclusiveness Through R&D

17:10

Whitla Hall

Panel Conversation: Advancing Global Sustainability – Key Recommendations & Feedback from Workshops

This final panel discussion on Day 1 will review the key recommendations that emerged from the workshops. Participants will engage in a lively discussion, share the key recommendations, and debate what is needed to turn those into action across sectors, from the local to the global level.

17:55

Whitla Hall

Wrap up

19:00

Queen’s Business School

Datathon at Queen’s Business School in Partnership with Alteryx

This is an exclusive event for 150 pre-selected students.

Queen’s Business School, Queen’s School of Electronics, Electrical Engineering and Computing and Alteryx will conduct a dynamic datathon where 150 students will use their skills and creativity to solve a complex sustainability challenge and showcase their talent in a collaborative and inspiring environment.

19:30

Dinner

*For invited guests only*

 

See our Digital Twins portfolio and Contact us for a new project.

🎉 Help your customers to Experience Immersive Communication with a Digital Twin for your hotel, resort, restaurant, museum, factory, real estate project or space.

☎️ Leave a comment with your business and let’s connect to deliver a 3D Digital Twin Solution for your Facility Managemnt Team.

Unlocking Global Growth Potential at Northern Ireland’s In-Person Export Networking Event with the Department for Business & Trade (DBT) and the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) in Belfast

Unlocking Global Growth Potential at Northern Ireland’s In-Person Export Networking Event with the Department for Business & Trade (DBT) and the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) in Belfast

by | Nov 12, 2024 | 3D, 3D Virtual Tours, Belfast, Blog, Business Events, Digital Twins, Ireland, Northern Ireland, UK, Uncategorized | 0 comments

Northern Ireland In-Person Export Networking

On November 11, I had the incredible opportunity to attend the Northern Ireland In-Person Export Networking event at Erskine House, Belfast. Hosted by the UK’s Department for Business and Trade (DBT) as part of their International Trade Week, the event brought together a network of driven entrepreneurs, business leaders, and experts with a shared vision: to support Northern Ireland businesses in going global. 

🌐 It was a fantastic chance for #DigitalStrada to connect with others who have international ambitions and to gather insights on growing beyond the UK. 

🌟 A Valuable Networking Experience
The event was a true networking hub! Alongside businesses from Northern Ireland, we had the chance to present our own ventures and plans for global expansion, sharing our aspirations with supportive professionals and peers.

💬 It was energizing to meet and exchange ideas with employees from the Federation of Small Businesses in the UK, representatives from the Department for Business and Trade, and fellow attendees from Small, Medium, and even Large Enterprises.

🤝 With such a dynamic mix of participants, the atmosphere was both collaborative and insightful. We gained valuable perspectives from others, learned new approaches to tackling challenges, and had a genuinely great time connecting and learning together.

📈 Highlights from the DBT and the UK Export Academy
One of the event’s highlights was hearing from Richard Elliott, Head of Creative Services at DBT, who provided practical advice and guidance on export growth strategies.

🎤 With years of experience in both public and private sectors, Richard’s insights emphasized the importance of effective strategy and preparation when aiming to enter international markets.

🌎 His presentation was especially relevant for businesses like mine, where the creative industry’s potential to attract global clients can be a game-changer.

✨ The event was also a chance to learn more about the UK Export Academy.

📚 For any business owner considering international expansion, this program is a crucial resource. Here’s what they have to say:

💬 “The UK Export Academy can support your business to grow by giving you the confidence and know-how to land your first, or next overseas deal. Over 18,000 businesses across the UK have already joined our free training programme. It’s totally free and takes only a few minutes to get started.”

🚀 With a foundation course, market access events, sector-specific webinars, and masterclasses, the UK Export Academy equips businesses with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in international trade. Having access to this type of expertise can be transformational, especially for small businesses venturing into exporting for the first time.

 

🌐 Export Support from the Department for Business and Trade

The Department for Business and Trade is dedicated to helping Northern Ireland businesses grow internationally by offering a range of programs and resources.

💼 With a network of market specialists across over 100 markets worldwide, DBT’s focus on Northern Ireland is helping to drive local businesses towards global success.

📊 Their team includes Sector Leads in key industries such as Advanced Manufacturing and Technology, Creative Industries, Agri-Food and Drink, and Health and Life Sciences.

🏆 This expertise makes them a valuable partner for businesses seeking to make informed, strategic moves into new international markets. 🌎

 

🌅 Key Takeaways for #DigitalStrada and Our International Ambitions

For #DigitalStrada, the event was a motivating experience.

💪 Meeting other business owners with similar ambitions was a great reminder of the wealth of support available for those looking to take their services overseas.

🚀 Our vision of providing world-class 3D scanning and virtual tours isn’t limited to the UK; we’re excited about the possibilities of working with clients in various markets who can benefit from immersive 3D experiences.

📸 With the resources from the DBT, the knowledge from the UK Export Academy, and the inspiration from networking with like-minded businesses, we’re energized to pursue our international goals.

🌐 The combination of strategic insights, practical support, and a community of export-minded entrepreneurs has strengthened our resolve to scale globally.

💼 Why Events Like This Matter for Businesses in Northern Ireland

Events like these are essential for Northern Ireland businesses, especially in today’s globalized economy.

🌎 They offer a platform for networking, peer-to-peer learning, and access to valuable information about the export process.

📊 The Department for Business and Trade’s continued support, combined with initiatives like International Trade Week, provides Northern Ireland businesses with the tools needed to thrive beyond borders.

🌐 For any business considering exporting or even expanding into a single international market, I can’t recommend these events enough.

🙌 With practical resources, industry connections, and the invaluable expertise of the DBT team, businesses of all sizes have the chance to take their first (or next) steps towards international growth.

🚀 If you’re thinking about taking your business global, don’t wait. Check out the UK Export Academy and see how its free training program can equip you with the skills and confidence to land your first—or next—overseas deal. 

 

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Highlights from Ready Steady Grow! Belfast 2024

by | Nov 11, 2024 | Belfast, Blog, Ireland, Northern Ireland, UK, Uncategorized | 0 comments

📅 Just attended Ready Steady Grow! Belfast

Had an incredible time at Ready Steady Grow! hosted by the Enterprise Investment Scheme Association (EISA) at Ormeau Labs. It was inspiring to see Belfast’s hashtag#EIS and hashtag#VC ecosystem come together and connect!

🎙️ Highlights from the Event:
• Claire Halliday kicked things off with a warm welcome at Ormeau Labs.
• Susan McKane from British Business Bank shared insights on support for small businesses.
• Bronagh Duggan of Sapphire Capital Partners LLP gave some invaluable “dos and don’ts” for EIS.
• A fantastic investor panel led by Olivia Wing (EISA) and Michael Mcdowell (Raise Ventures) offered deep insights into the investment landscape.
• Joanne Cole from BrokerIQ Solutions and Gary Davidson from Ormeau Labs wrapped up with a fireside chat on the startup journey.


Wrapped up the evening with networking over drinks and canapés—great conversations and connections made!

📈Excited to see how these initiatives will continue driving growth in hashtag#Belfast’s investment space.

⭐️I had a good chance to meet with people from Invest Northern Ireland and also the Department for the Economy NI.

It was good to offer feedback about the gap I see in the tech industry from the support perspective.

⚠️ There has to be a place and an environment to help tech entrepreneurs grow their business AFTER they have been through Programmes like Go Succeed NI, but BEFORE they meet the requirements to become an Invest Northern Ireland client.

📧 If interested to get in contact please leave a message on my Digital Strada for 3D Digital Twins

contact webpage: https://digitalstrada.com/contact/

hashtag#northernireland hashtag#technology hashtag#entrepreneurship hashtag#vcfunding hashtag#investment hashtag#preseed hashtag#businessgrowth hashtag#funding hashtag#ormeaulabs hashtag#eisa

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