On October 28, 2026, the UK government announced new funding for cybersecurity and artificial intelligence initiatives in Northern Ireland as part of its Budget 2026 announcement.
Cybersecurity and AI Investment
The UK government announced £7.5 million in new funding dedicated to Queen’s University Belfast’s CSIT Cyber AI Hub. According to the government publication, the investment is designed to support jobs and skills within Belfast’s cybersecurity and artificial intelligence sector.
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland Chris Bryant stated that the funding looks to the future by investing in regional strengths. The cybersecurity boost was released alongside an additional £1 million in funding intended for a Northern Ireland Investment Summit.
Broader Budget Measures
The technology and cybersecurity investments were part of a broader government budget announcement covering various economic measures for Northern Ireland. The publication noted that the wider package includes heating oil cost reductions, a 5p extension to fuel duty, and food tariff removals.
Additional elements of the broader budget included £270 million for public services over the Spending Review period and funding to help establish a scheme to lower electricity costs for power-intensive manufacturers.
Key facts and where they come from
- The UK government announced £7.5 million in new funding for Queen’s University Belfast’s CSIT Cyber AI Hub.
£7.5 million of new funding for Queen’s University Belfast’s CSIT Cyber AI Hub.
- The announcement was published on October 28, 2026, as part of Budget 2026.
Published: October 28, 2026
