Invest Northern Ireland is helping smaller local companies to take their first steps in the highly competitive US market through a new partnership with the Irish Innovation Centre in Silicon Valley, California.

Invest NI is targeting support at small and medium sized firms which are seeking business growth and connections in Silicon Valley and the wider US. The Irish Innovation Centre will provide professional office space, consulting services and potential access to additional funding as they embark on their expansion plans in the US and the global marketplace.

Invest NI’s Managing Director of Business International, Jeremy Fitch said: “Invest NI support, in partnership with the Irish Innovation Centre will provide a vital bridgehead for companies who see the West Coast as a prime target market for both funding and new business but lack either the marketing or consultancy expertise, and an in-market base from which to grow.

“This is a very practical example of how Invest NI support can ensure local companies are strongly positioned in one of the most lucrative and competitive global markets.”

John Stanton, President of the Irish Innovation Centre said, “We are delighted Invest NI is making this support available.  By expanding into Silicon Valley, the technology capital of the world, companies will be able to access customers and resources not available elsewhere.  In 2009, 40% of all US venture capital funding was invested in Silicon Valley, highlighting the importance of the region to the expansion of technology companies.”