Catalyst
Empowering Northern Ireland start-ups through IP awareness and strategic guidance.
Background #
Catalyst is an independent, non-profit science and technology hub dedicated to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship across Northern Ireland. Known as the epicentre of innovation in the region, Catalyst offers a dynamic environment that supports innovators and entrepreneurs through a powerful community, international networks, and resources to accelerate growth. With a commitment to inclusivity, Catalyst actively removes barriers to opportunity within the innovation economy, helping start-ups and innovators access the skills and resources needed to thrive.
The Opportunity #
Before partnering with Murgitroyd, Catalyst lacked a local patent attorney partner, leaving a gap in accessible IP guidance for its growing network of technology-focused start-ups and entrepreneurs. The absence of structured IP support and strategic advice limited the potential for these start-ups to effectively safeguard their innovations, potentially affecting future investment opportunities and long-term success.
Action #
Since forming our Gold partnership with Catalyst in 2023, Murgitroyd has delivered IP advice and tailored talks to Catalyst’s community, guiding local start-ups in building robust IP strategies. By engaging with emerging companies early in their development, Murgitroyd has helped enhance awareness of IP protection's critical role, enabling them to understand how registered IP rights can serve as valuable assets in attracting venture capital and facilitating growth.
Outcome #
As a result of our partnership, IP awareness among Catalyst's start-ups has significantly increased, equipping them with the knowledge to protect their innovations from the outset. This proactive approach has laid the groundwork for future success, with enhanced IP strategies expected to help attract venture capital and improve long-term business viability for Northern Ireland’s emerging tech ecosystem.
Attorneys Involved #
Johnny has helped run initiatives for young people as part of Catalyst’s Generation Innovation programme, helping raise ambitions for 16-18 year olds across Northern Ireland.
Partner Relationship Manager, UK start-up incubator
Johnny has also been a key supporter throughout the Catalyst INVENT programme, helping businesses grow and flourish by acting as a judge for the biobreakthroughs category.
Partner Relationship Manager, UK start-up incubator
It is a pleasure working with Johnny and we at Catalyst would like to thank him for all he has done so far in making Northern Ireland a better ecosystem for entrepreneurs and innovators to grow and develop.
Partner Relationship Manager, UK start-up incubator
