From Innovation Hubs to National Impact

Based in Dublin, Dogpatch Labs is Ireland’s leading innovation hub, connecting startups, corporates, and government agencies to accelerate technological transformation. Through open innovation programmes and strategic partnerships, Dogpatch enables large organisations to adopt startup agility and unlock new pathways for digital and sustainable growth.

Timbi collaborated with Dogpatch Labs to identify European funding opportunities for two major national entities, Irish Rail and ESB (Electricity Supply Board), aligning innovation initiatives with EU priorities in transport, energy, and sustainability. The goal was clear: to strengthen Ireland’s participation in European research and innovation ecosystems and secure long-term growth through cross-sector collaboration

Strategic alignment for national innovation

Working alongside Dogpatch’s innovation team, Timbi mapped relevant Horizon Europe, Connecting Europe Facility (CEF), and Digital Europe opportunities tailored to the strategic interests of both Irish Rail and ESB.

Through this process, we provided guidance on:

• Identifying EU calls focused on smart mobility, clean energy, and digital infrastructure

• Building cross-European partnerships with universities and tech SMEs

• Structuring funding roadmaps that connect Irish innovation to EU-scale impact

This collaboration helped define a shared European strategy for two of Ireland’s cornerstone public enterprises, bridging national innovation with continental-scale research agendas.

From strategy to opportunity

Together, we built the foundation for future participation in EU-funded projects that advance sustainable transport, smart grids, and digital transformation. Beyond immediate funding insights, this partnership reinforced Dogpatch’s position as a key innovation connector in Ireland’s tech ecosystem.

• Delivered tailored EU funding strategies for Irish Rail and ESB

• Strengthened Dogpatch Labs’ role in connecting Irish innovation to EU frameworks

• Supported national transition toward green and digital priorities