Sustainable NI joins E-DATA to drive SME digital and green transformation across Northern Ireland and border counties

Sustainable NI has announced its role as a delivery partner in E-DATA (Enterprise Digitalisation and Transformation Alliance), a major cross-border initiative funded by PEACEPLUS and managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB). The project will provide fully funded, bespoke digital transformation support to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across Northern Ireland and the border counties of Ireland.

E-DATA aims to help businesses overcome barriers such as limited technical expertise, infrastructure challenges, and evolving workforce needs. With digitalisation now central to growth, sustainability and competitiveness, the initiative will support the adoption of AI, data analytics, automation, and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies to build smarter, more efficient operations.

Working alongside Ulster University, Atlantic Technological University, Manufacturing NI, and Innovate-NI, Sustainable NI will focus on helping companies use digital tools to reduce carbon emissions, improve resource efficiency, and enhance environmental performance.

Nichola Hughes, Director of Sustainable NI, said, “E-DATA gives us a unique opportunity to show how digitalisation and sustainability go hand in hand. By helping businesses measure, manage and reduce their energy use and emissions, we can improve productivity and resilience — while advancing our shared transition to a low-carbon economy.”

By connecting expertise from both sides of the border, E-DATA aims to strengthen economic links, foster shared learning, and build a more sustainable and prosperous future for the region’s SME community.