Life Science sector profile

There's no better place in the world today for Life Science start-ups

The medical device eco-system in Ireland, in terms of access to specialised staff, managers, suppliers, advisers and investors is world class. It is by far the best such system in an English speaking area within the favourable European regulatory regime.

The total Life Science sector, across medical devices, pharma and bio in Ireland:

Exports more than €45 billion annually.
Employs over 50,000 people directly.
Includes operations of six of the top seven diagnostics companies.

The Irish Medical Device sector:

Comprises 160 firms.
Employs more than 24,000 people.
Generates annual sales greater than €6 billion.
Includes operations of eight of the world’s 10 largest medical device companies.
Global players with substantial Irish operations include Abbott, Bayer, Becton Dickinson, Boston Scientific, Johnson & Johnson, Guidant, Medtronic and Stryker.
Ireland’s biggest home grown medical device company, Creganna/Tactx, employs over 800 people world-wide and provides a range of contract manufacturing and contract R&D services to start ups and global companies alike.
More than 50% of medtech companies based in Ireland have dedicated R&D facilities.
80% of global stent production is carried out from Ireland.

"Ireland is recognised as a centre for life sciences and medical devices. Enterprise Ireland was particularly helpful in facilitating introductions to Irish clinicians who have played a critical role in the product development process."
Chris Davey, Marvao Medical

Download Life Science sector brochure [pdf 284KB]