The 28th TCI Global Conference has opened in Dublin, marking the first time the flagship event has been hosted on a cross-border basis across Ireland and Northern Ireland. Supported by the Shared Island Enterprise Scheme and delivered through InterTradeIreland, Enterprise Ireland and Invest Northern Ireland, the conference underscores a renewed commitment to advancing all-island cluster collaboration and innovation.

Addressing over 200 delegates from 25 countries, Taoiseach Micheál Martin and First Minister Michelle O’Neill highlighted the role of clusters in building competitiveness, resilience and sustainable economic growth. Martin announced Ireland’s new International Impact Clustering Programme, which will fund three pilot clusters focused on national strategic enterprise priorities. O’Neill emphasised that cross-border cluster collaboration is essential to ensuring growth that is fair, sustainable and shared across communities.

Government ministers on both sides of the border echoed this sentiment. Peter Burke, Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, called clusters “a catalyst for a more integrated and prosperous economy,” while Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald said investing in clusters “unlocks innovation, boosts productivity, and creates high-quality jobs.”

Industry leaders, including Margaret Hearty of InterTradeIreland and Carol Gibbons of Enterprise Ireland, said the conference reinforces Ireland’s position as a dynamic hub for global collaboration across key sectors such as advanced manufacturing, life sciences and cybersecurity.

As cluster development accelerates across the island, the event is expected to leave a lasting legacy, deepening cooperation, strengthening ecosystems and shaping Ireland’s next phase of innovation-led growth.

Discover the full insights and outcomes from the TCI Global Conference.