London-based wireless charging firm Chargifi has announced the opening of a new Belfast-based Technology and Business Development Hub.
The firm, which has built and patented a charger-based Internet of Things platform, has invested 3.6m into the new location and will create 41 new jobs in the process.
The firm’s platform allows devices including smartphones and drones to be charged in public places including workplaces, bars, and airports.
The wireless charging functionality is designed improve experiences when customers and employees use the tech to charge their own devices on the go.
Its ‘SmartSpots’ are used by Pret A Manger, Amazon, Hilton, Marriott, WeWork and MGM Resorts.
The new tech hub will be tasked with development of Chargifi’s core technology, collaborating with tech partners. It will also have a team focussed on developing a new market strategy.
The tech hub is part of a wider planned expansion across the globe for the firm. It hopes that an increased presence across the UK, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, the USA, Canada and the APAC region will see returns.
Chargifi CEO Dan Bladen said demand is ever increasing now that the leading smartphones having wireless charging functionality.
“Demand is ramping for this type of convenient power when away from home,” he said.
“We anticipate that the market for wireless charging will grow significantly over the next couple of years. Chargifi has the vision and technology to help drive fast adoption in the market and we are gearing up to meet the ever increasing demand. The new hub in Belfast is an important part of our growth story.”
The new location is backed by £328,000 from Invest NI, with a further £1.8m a year contribute to salaries.
Invest NI chief executive Alastair Hamilton said Chargifi’s decision to set up its tech hub in Northern Ireland was influenced by the high quality tech talent in the area.
“The company is a welcomed addition to Northern Ireland’s vibrant ICT sector, which has already attracted over 100 global technology companies,” he said.