Northern Ireland to pitch over 100 Investors

In September, Northern Ireland’s innovative businesses are set to take centre stage as they are presented to over 100 investors hailing from the USA, Middle East, Europe, and the Asia Pacific regions. This summit provides a significant opportunity to showcase Northern Ireland’s prowess in innovation and technology across its renowned sectors such as advanced manufacturing, software and technology, financial and professional services, and emerging health and life sciences.

This initiative will build upon the foundation set by the Windsor Framework, as articulated by the Prime Minister earlier this year. It is an integral part of the UK government’s commitment to fostering a sustainable and inclusive economy, driving growth, and generating higher-paying job opportunities for communities across Northern Ireland.

Distinguished speakers at the event include Business and Trade Secretary Kemi Badenoch, Secretary of State for Northern Ireland Chris Heaton-Harris, Housing and Levelling Up Secretary Michael Gove, and US Economic Envoy to Northern Ireland Joseph Kennedy III. Kennedy, who visited the UK in July to explore the opportunities for US businesses at the Summit, will lead a delegation of US investors to Northern Ireland as part of a trade mission in October.

The Summit’s principal partner is the US multinational financial group Citi, with David Livingstone, CEO of Citi EMEA, delivering a keynote speech. The event aims to propel Northern Ireland’s businesses into new horizons across technology, finance, and more, capitalising on its status as the UK’s second-largest tech hub outside London.

Secretary of State for Northern Ireland Chris Heaton-Harris emphasised that in a mere four weeks, leading investors and international businesses from around the world will have the opportunity to witness Northern Ireland’s talent and expertise firsthand. This event aligns with the UK Government’s vision for a prosperous Northern Ireland, 25 years after the signing of the Belfast (Good Friday) Agreement.

Panel discussions during the Summit will highlight why global investors should choose Northern Ireland, with separate breakout sessions dedicated to each key growth sector. Additionally, a session on Northern Ireland’s thriving creative sector will be hosted by Tom Berkeley and Ross White, directors of “An Irish Goodbye,” the youngest-ever Oscar recipients.

With a history of attracting £19.2 billion in inward investment in 2021, Northern Ireland is known for being one of the most cost-competitive business locations in Europe, making it an appealing destination for businesses seeking optimal conditions for growth.

This Summit paves the way for a subsequent major Global Investment Summit in the late autumn, uniting over 200 of the world’s most prominent CEOs, investors, and financiers to showcase the entire UK as a premier investment destination. The inaugural Global Investment Summit in October 2021 yielded nearly £10 billion of investment on the day, leading to at least 30,000 new jobs in green energy and tech sectors.