Catalyst Community Raises £26,200 in Spinathon for Cancer Fund for Children

Catalyst, together with its community and partners, has proudly announced that its recent Spinathon fundraiser has raised an incredible £26,200 for Cancer Fund for Children, marking a major milestone in its mission to raise £50,000 for the charity this year.

More than 100 participants from Catalyst’s community, including employees, partner companies, and supporters took part in the high-energy event across its three locations: Titanic Quarter, Bedford Street, and Derry~Londonderry. Over the course of just 10 hours, the volunteers exceeded their ambitious mileage goal, cycling a total of 1,244 miles, surpassing the original target of 1,185 miles.

The Spinathon was inspired by and held in support of local tech founders undertaking the 26 Mountains 2 Mayo Challenge, which involves climbing the highest peak in each of Ireland’s 26 counties. Catalyst’s own challenge mirrored this feat by cycling the equivalent distance between the peaks and Mayo.

The funds raised will go directly to Cancer Fund for Children, a charity that provides vital emotional and practical support to children, young people, and families affected by cancer. Their work helps families cope with the devastating impact of diagnosis and treatment, offering a lifeline during some of the most difficult times in their lives. Catalyst is proud to support Cancer Fund for Children as its official charity for 2025.

Catalyst is an independent, non-profit science and technology hub focused on fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in Northern Ireland. With its vision focused on opportunity for all from world leading innovation, the organisation champions many different people from diverse backgrounds to explore their passions.

Steve Orr, Chief Executive Officer at Catalyst said: “We are so proud of our community who really pulled together by either donating money or kicking into gear themselves and taking part in our Spinathon challenge, in the name of such a good cause. We are surrounded by good people within our network and were thrilled so many supported our ambitious fundraiser.

“The Cancer Fund for Children provides exceptional support to children and families during what is some of the most difficult challenges anyone will experience. It is crucial that we all do what we can to raise essential funds and ensure this invaluable service can keep going for those who need it.”

For more information or to donate, please visit: www.wearecatalyst.org/spinathon