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Strengthening Connections

Jan 10, 2025

On December 5th and 6th, 2024, World Trade Center Dublin proudly hosted a delegation from World Trade Center Lille for a two-day trade mission aimed at fostering collaboration, exchanging ideas, and exploring opportunities between Irish and French businesses.

This visit is a shining example of the value the World Trade Centers Association (WTCA) brings to its global members. As part of a network of more than 300 World Trade Centers in nearly 100 countries, WTC Dublin and WTC Lille are committed to strengthening ties between their regions by facilitating meaningful connections, sharing resources, and promoting international trade opportunities.

Day One: Warm Welcome and Innovation in Focus

The mission began with a welcome lunch at Suesey Street, supported by Glandore. Clare Kelly, Founder of Glandore, joined the gathering to discuss Ireland’s vibrant co-working ecosystem and the role of shared spaces in driving collaboration and growth.

The delegation then traveled to the Kildare Innovation Centre, where Chief Executive Allan Shine provided an insightful presentation on the region's innovation initiatives, upcoming development projects, and the significant role Kildare plays in Ireland’s innovation ecosystem.

Dinner at Ryleigh’s Roo op Restaurant offered a relaxed yet enriching setting for discussions with notable guests. Communications expert Ellen Gunning shared her expertise, while renowned Irish artist Eoin O’Connor and his manager Denise McGrath explored the intersection of creativity and business with members of the French delegation.

Day Two: Business Engagement and Cultural Exchange

Day two began at Iconic Offices Greenway on St. Stephen’s Green with a discussion session joined by Adrian McGennis and Mike McDonagh of Sigmar Recruitment. Now part of the French Groupe Adéquat, Sigmar offered invaluable insights into Ireland’s talent pool and recruitment strategies, highlighting the cross-border benefits of partnerships within the WTCA network.

The delegation also heard from Robert Mac Giolla Phádraigh, CEO of SkillStack, who introduced his innovative learning platform that combines storytelling and education, and Jack Collins of NoFrixion, who presented their fintech solution for efficient business money management. These discussions underscored the dynamic entrepreneurial ecosystem in Ireland.

An elegant networking lunch at Ely Wine Bar brought together the delegation, WTC Dublin representatives, and members of the Irish business community, including Elodie Morin-Rager, Director of Business France, Hugo Grattirola of Philip Lee LLP and David Pierce, Director of WTC Dublin, among others.

The afternoon featured a visit to the French Embassy, where the delegates received a detailed presentation on Ireland’s economic landscape. The embassy session covered the benefits of doing business in Ireland, key trade opportunities, and a balanced perspective on the challenges of the current market.

The mission concluded with a visit to the award-winning EPIC Museum, followed by a festive farewell dinner at Urban Brewing, where the delegates reflected on a successful two days of collaboration and learning.

The Power of Trade Missions

This mission represents just the beginning of a deeper collaboration between WTC Dublin and WTC Lille. Trade missions are an effective tool in connecting business leaders with international opportunities, helping members enter new markets and build lasting partnerships.

By leveraging the WTCA network, WTC Dublin nurtures cross-border relationships, to ensure members gain access to world-class resources, industry expertise, and invaluable connections. The collaboration between WTC Lille and WTC Dublin demonstrates the immense potential of this network to drive growth and innovation.

As we look to the future, WTC Dublin remains committed to organizing impactful trade missions that bridge regions, industries, and cultures. Together with our fellow WTCA members, we are paving the way for our businesses to thrive in a global marketplace.

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