The economic development agency has launched a new framework for developing what it sees as a sector with high potential.

Among the targets in the Northern Ireland Digital Content Strategy is one to create 30 new digital content start-ups in the key areas of digital animation, mobile and web content and e-learning/serious gaming, including six high growth start-ups.

It also aims to help existing companies increase their turnover and export potential over the next three years.

In addition Invest NI wants to provide support for 20 established digital content companies for the first time.

Stephen Kingon, chairman of Invest NI, said: "The digital content industry worldwide is growing faster than traditional industries, with rates of 10% growth per year forecast.

"This strategy has been developed by Invest NI to ensure that our local digital content industry will have the opportunity and the support it needs to succeed in global markets and become a major contributor to our economy."

He pointed out digital content is becoming an increasingly important part of growing economies as they move away from the manufacture of physical items to a knowledge-driven base.

Mr Kingon added: "For some time the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment has taken the lead in encouraging the development of innovative content by the Northern Ireland creative sector in order to take advantage of our 100% broadband coverage.

"Increased competition from overseas will mean that our local industry will find it difficult to compete if it is not prepared with a clear and focused agenda.

"This strategy, developed by Invest Northern Ireland in consultation with the industry, will help develop what is a relatively young and emerging sector in Northern Ireland into one which is vibrant and successful internationally. "

Another aim of the strategy is to secure one high quality foreign direct investment project within the next 36 months.