Northern Ireland currently has a community of over 150 nanotechnology researchers based in its two major universities and industry, representing a significant block of the wider nanoscience research capability across the UK.

Nanotec NI aims to further stimulate the region's industrial and academic role in the international nanotechnology arena. The correlation between a strong research base and economic development is well recognised and the economic benefits of investment in research can clearly be seen in the work of a number of companies based in Northern Ireland.

Among these is Seagate, believed to be the largest nanotechnology employer in the UK with some 2000 staff. Seagate is a world leader in next generation magnetic recording technology and is one of over 20 Northern Ireland companies with active interests in the exploitation of nanotechnology. These companies include both indigenous high-tech start-ups and multi-nationals, with products ranging from pharmaceuticals to military systems.

Nanotec NI represents a significant step towards a coherent infrastructure for the exploitation of nanotechnology in Northern Ireland adding new equipment and new research teams to the existing local nanotechnology cadre.