The Northern Ireland Defence Growth deal, launched by the UK government, will result in extra money being invested in tech companies and start ups.
It is a collaboration between the Ministry of Defence, local companies and Queen’s University Belfast and is also aimed at helping students develop skills in engineering and technology.
O’Neill was criticised by unionists for failing to attend the launch of the new Growth Deal in Belfast.
At the time, the first minister was engaged in a series of media interviews ahead of the Sinn Féin Ard Fheis in Belfast at the weekend.
“I don’t agree with this policy choice in London – choosing weapons of war over people and investing in people – but I do not blame any company here for wanting to have their share or creating jobs or employment,” she said.