Enterprise Ireland
Annual Report and Accounts 2004
Annual Report and Accounts 2004
International networking is essential for building relationships in industry, in academia and with the wider expatriate community. Enterprise Ireland’s objective from its international networking initiatives is three-fold: to encourage innovative research personnel to share their knowledge with Irish researchers or to locate in Ireland; to attract high calibre executives back to Ireland to join and help build our knowledge-intensive workforce or start their own businesses; to encourage international contacts to act as a gateway into their countries for Irish exporters.
The Irish expatriate community abroad offers a wealth of networking opportunities. A particular emphasis in 2004 was placed on stimulating and leveraging these international business connections. Some examples of initiatives include:
Young Irish Professionals: In June 2003 Enterprise Ireland established a network of Young Irish Professionals in the UK. The network provides an opportunity for Irish expatriates to share knowledge and build relationships. It encourages them to return to Ireland to either set up a new business or undertake research and it assists Irish companies looking for access to export markets. Since its launch membership of the network has grown to over 1,200. Members come from different sectors including: financial services, law, publishing and creative industries.
TechLink UK Ireland: This network of scientific industry experts links representatives from the UK and Ireland to further the exchange of knowledge, news and expertise. Over 180 leading scientists and entrepreneurs attended the network’s launch conference in London, to discuss the growth of the Irish lifescience industry.
Ireland-UAE Business Group: Enterprise Ireland created and launched this networking group in Dubai with the participation of Mr Frank Fahey, TD, Minister of State, Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment. It aims to create a network of Irish business people working in the United Arab Emirates, bringing them together through quarterly networking meetings. Since its launch the group has gathered over 150 members.
BioLink USA-Ireland: This networking body now connects over 700 experienced expatriates in lifesciences across the US with Irish institutions and industry. It aims to foster relations among members to support the development of the biosciences in commercial, academic and Government settings in Ireland. It has resulted in new start-ups in Ireland, and has furthered investment and partnerships for Irish lifesciences companies.
