North West Centre for Advanced Manufacturing 2 (NWCAM2)

About the Project

NWCAM2 is a cross-border innovation programme focused on delivering sustainable, net-zero manufacturing solutions for SMEs in the Health & Life Sciences sector. 

The project, which is supported by PEACEPLUS, a programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB), has received funding of €9,981,033 and will be led by Catalyst, in partnership with North West Regional College, Atlantic Technology University (ATU),Ulster University, Trinity College Dublin and Irish Manufacturing Research Centre.

NWCAM2 builds on the success of the original NWCAM project, funded through INTERREG VA, which was widely recognised for delivering high-impact manufacturing innovations. The new programme takes that success further by combining deep research with practical implementation to ensure tangible benefits, directly supporting SMEs on both sides of the border to embed advanced technologies like additive manufacturing, digital tools, and sustainable materials. There are two strands to NWCAM2 with different objectives and outcomes. NWRC is not directly involved with Strand 1 delivery but is coordinating Strand 2.

Strand 1 - Deep Dive R&I Projects 

Strand 1 involves PhD-level research in additive and digital manufacturing and future materials to drive sustainable product and process innovation in the H&LS sector. 

Six PhDs from ATU and four from UU collaborate with Catalyst facilitating SME engagement and innovation road mapping. The initiative will deliver ten innovations through deep-dive research projects that inform faster, one-year implementation projects, with Postdoctoral Research Associates ensuring continuity across both strands.

Strand 2 – Implementation projects  

The Implementation Projects will support 20 manufacturing SMEs over three years to embed practical innovation and accelerate the adoption of proven product and process technologies. 

Coordinated by NWRC and supported by PDRA staff from UU, ATU, IMR, and TCD, with Catalyst leading innovation road mapping, these projects will focus on integrating new technologies  for the development of sustainable product and process solutions.  The initiative will result in 20 SMEs implementing innovative manufacturing solutions that deliver measurable improvements in sustainability and competitiveness.