Shared Island conference to boost cluster competitiveness

Cluster leaders, policymakers, and practitioners from across the island of Ireland are set to convene at the Shared Island Cluster Leadership Conference 2027, a two-day international gathering dedicated to enhancing cluster development as a driver of innovation and economic competitiveness.

Taking place on 2-3 February 2027 at the Ballymascanlon Hotel in Dundalk, the event will bring together distinguished experts and stakeholders under the theme "Unlocking the Potential of Clusters: From Ambition to Impact." The conference will delve into how strategic cluster leadership, collaboration, and policy can strengthen cluster organisations and amplify their economic impact.

Drawing on extensive European experience, where over 1,250 cluster organisations connect nearly 155,000 members—predominantly SMEs—the event will showcase best practices and practical insights to build resilient and sustainable cluster ecosystems across Ireland.

Key highlights include the presentation of findings and policy recommendations from the Interreg Europe Accelerate GDT project, which focuses on supporting green and digital transitions through cluster policy. This initiative underscores the role clusters play in fostering sustainable growth and innovation.

Organised through the Shared Island Enterprise Scheme's Clusters and Networks programme, the conference is a collaborative effort among InterTradeIreland, Invest Northern Ireland, and Enterprise Ireland, funded by the Government of Ireland’s Shared Island Fund. It offers delegates a valuable chance to learn from leading European experts, engage in strategic discussions, and network with peers to enhance all-island economic collaboration.

Speakers and programme

The conference will feature keynote addresses from prominent figures such as Ásta Kristín Sigurjónsdóttir, CEO of the Iceland Tourism Cluster, and Annie Renders, Head of the Cluster Policy Unit at Flanders Innovation and Entrepreneurship, alongside other nationally and internationally recognised experts in cluster development and regional economic growth.

Attendees will explore case studies of successful cluster initiatives, participate in panel discussions, and engage in workshops designed to foster collaboration between industry, academia, government, and research bodies.

Perspectives from organisers

Barbara Orr, Director of Enterprise Development at InterTradeIreland, emphasised the vital role clusters play in boosting innovation and competitiveness: "By uniting businesses, researchers, policymakers, and industry leaders, clusters transform ideas into tangible opportunities and economic benefits. This conference will provide access to international expertise and practical strategies to help cluster leaders enhance their organisations' impact."

Linda Jamison, Head of Collaboration and Clusters at Invest Northern Ireland, highlighted the value of cluster connections in driving sustainable growth for Northern Ireland businesses and fostering all-island relationships.

Anne Lanigan, Divisional Manager, Local Enterprise and Regions at Enterprise Ireland, encouraged cluster managers and members to participate, noting the chance to learn from Europe's most successful cluster organisations and build global competitiveness.

Registration and additional information

Delegates will have opportunities to attend keynote sessions, panel debates, networking events, and collaborative workshops throughout the conference. With places limited and demand expected to be high, early registration is advised.

For further details and registration, visit www.intertradeireland.com.

About participating organisations

InterTradeIreland accelerates cross-border trade and economic growth by connecting businesses to opportunities across the island. Since 1999, it has helped scale trade significantly and supports thousands of SMEs.

Invest Northern Ireland aims to create a regionally balanced, productive, and sustainable economy by supporting business growth, innovation, and inward investment.

Enterprise Ireland invests in Irish-owned companies to facilitate international expansion and innovation, contributing to job creation and economic development.

The Shared Island Enterprise Scheme, launched in 2024 with €30 million funding, marks a new era of collaboration among these agencies, focusing on areas including clusters and networks, women’s entrepreneurship, and sustainable enterprise.

Understanding clusters and AccelerateGDT

Clusters unite businesses, research institutions, and other stakeholders to share expertise, innovate, and grow. Research shows clusters significantly boost start-up growth and high-growth firms, making them a priority in government economic strategies.

The AccelerateGDT project supports cluster policies to advance Europe’s green and digital transitions, enhancing SME competitiveness and regional resilience through cluster-led innovation.

Contact for press enquiries:
Fiachradh McDermott, Carr Communications
Phone: 00353 87 6557070
Email: [email protected]