AQO 3002/22-27

Ms Paula Bradshaw
Alliance Party
South Belfast

Tabled Date: 15/01/2026
Answered On Date: 27/01/2026
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister for the Economy to outline any plans for new or expanded business incubation units and cluster zones to promote economic development.

Answer:

Developing a network of world leading business incubation units and innovation clusters is central to my Economic Vision. Through the City and Growth Deals programme, we are establishing dedicated innovation centres that will serve as clustering hot spots for our priority sectors. One example is the £70 million Momentum One Zero initiative led by Queen’s University Belfast, which showcases the scale of ambition and investment across the region.

I recently attended the official event marking the start of construction of the new Momentum One Zero facility, which will cement the North’s reputation as a global destination for digital innovation, directly supporting economic development.

Using funds to be provided for an Enhanced Investment Zone, we’re targeting a long‑standing and significant gap in specialist wet‑lab incubation space. This will provide flexible lab space, co‑working areas and shared specialist equipment to help early‑stage businesses start, grow and scale here in the North.