Accelerate Green Conference highlights green potential of Midlands region
The opportunities for the Midlands at the heart of a green energy revolution was highlighted at the recent Accelerate Green 2025 Conference in Tullamore, hosted by BnM. With BnM investing in multiple renewable energy projects across the wider Midlands region in wind, solar, hydrogen and BESS, the transition to green energy in the region is […]
FactoryXChange Digital Hub Opens in Mullingar
In a major milestone for Ireland’s manufacturing sector, the FactoryXChange Digital Hub at Irish Manufacturing Research (IMR) in Mullingar has been officially opened. The opening of the Hub also further enhances the position of the Midlands region as a centre of excellence in Advanced Manufacturing for the country. FactoryXChange (FXC) is a European Digital Innovation […]
Midlands Hosts the Scale Ireland Regional Start-Up Summit 2025
The Midlands is a growing centre for innovation and research, that’s according to Brian Caulfield, Chair of Scale Ireland, in his opening address to the Scale Ireland Regional Start-Up Summit in Athlone. Citing the recent announcement of a €200m investment at Ericsson in Athlone, Ireland’s largest Software Campus, and highlighting the many Midlands tech companies […]
Ericsson invests €200m at Athlone facility to boost high-performing programmable networks leadership
Ericsson has announced a significant EUR 200 million investment over the next three years in a pioneering research, development, and innovation (RD&I) project at the company’s Athlone facility in central Ireland. The project, supported by the Irish Government through IDA Ireland, will underpin Ericsson’s development of world-leading capabilities for the management of high performing, open […]
ATIM Cluster to expand global reach of Irish manufacturing businesses
THE new chairman of the Midlands-based ATIM Cluster – located in Technological University of the Shannon in Athlone – has promised to build on the foundation which saw €2.2million worth of projects secured to date and 47 manufacturing companies supported in expanding their global market reach. The Advanced Technologies in Manufacturing (ATIM) Cluster – whose […]
MMC Skills Pathway Portfolio launches at National Construction Training Campus, Mount Lucas
Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science James Lawless launched the Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) Skills Pathway Portfolio at the National Construction Training Campus (NCTC) at Mount Lucas, Co Offaly. The MMC Skills Pathway Portfolio includes accredited courses, flexible online learning options, and a pipeline of new qualifications. These courses will […]
Together We Thrive Conference Brings Together Leaders to Drive Sustainable Economic Growth in the Midlands
The Together We Thrive conference held on March 26th at the Tullamore Court Hotel brought together over 150 attendees from the fields of enterprise, tourism, skills, and community development. The event focused on how sustainability and regenerative practices can propel economic growth across the Midlands, with an emphasis on collaboration, innovation, and shared knowledge. The […]
Midland Steel open €16m Portlaoise facility and announce North American market partner
Laois-based Midland Steel have announced a strategic partnership with Nucor Corporation to roll out their #FasterFix technology by exclusive agreement in the USA and Canada. Midland Steel is Ireland’s leading steel reinforcement company, while partner, Nucor Corporation, is the largest steel producer and recycler in the USA, marking a significant milestone in steel construction innovation […]
Midlands ICT Network Event Highlights Key Supports for Tech
The Midlands’ tech community came together in force on March 11th for the inaugural Let’s Talk About Tech event, hosted by the Midlands ICT Network at the Radisson Hotel, Athlone. Close to 100 attendees, including tech businesses, students, network members, and support agencies from across Ireland, the event proved to be an engaging platform for […]
Together We Thrive: Sustainable Economic Opportunities Conference
Together We Thrive: Realising Sustainable Economic Opportunities for Enterprise, Tourism and Communities in the Midlands A landmark event is set to take place on Wednesday, 26th March in Tullamore County Offaly, bringing together leaders in enterprise, tourism, skills and community development to explore how sustainability and regenerative practices can drive economic growth across the Midlands. This collaborative […]
Let’s Talk About Tech – Midlands ICT Network Supports Event
The Midlands’ tech community is set to come together for a pivotal event, Let’s Talk About Tech. This free event is aimed at connecting tech businesses, entrepreneurs, and students with key ICT supports. The event will take place on March 11th, 2025, at the Radisson Hotel, Athlone, from 10:00am to 1:00pm. This highly anticipated gathering […]
Sustainability Roadshow taking place across the Midlands with The CUBE Low Carbon Centre of Excellence
A Sustainability Roadshow from The CUBE Low Carbon Centre of Excellence is taking place across the Midlands in the coming weeks. The Roadshow will see a fantastic line-up of events held at The CUBE in Portlaoise, as well online, and in various locations across the Midlands. All of the events are free and offer something […]
TUS Graduates Top Employment Rates for Second Year Running
Technological University of the Shannon (TUS) graduates have the highest employment rate in Ireland for the second year in a row. According to the recently published 2023 Higher Education Authority (HEA) Graduate Outcomes Survey, 81% of TUS honours degree graduates are employed, significantly higher than the national average of 76.5%. This is the highest employment […]
Community & Enterprise Supports Events to Take Place across the Midlands
Communities and businesses in Laois, Longford, Offaly and Westmeath are invited to a series of special events designed to showcase the wide range of supports available to help them grow, develop, and transition towards a sustainable future. Taking place across a series of county events in the coming weeks, these free events will provide valuable […]
N4 Mullingar to Longford – Preferred Route Option
Westmeath County Council in conjunction with Longford County Council, supported by Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII), wish to announce to all stakeholders, landowners, members of the publicand interested parties the selection of the Preferred Option (PO) for the N4 Mullingar to Longford(Roosky) project. This 52km section of the N4 is a single carriageway road that passes […]
Midlands Region Ranked 2nd in Europe for FDI Strategy in 2025
Ireland’s Midlands Region has once again been recognised as a ‘European Region of the Future’ by the Financial Times, earning a prestigious ranking in fDi Intelligence’s latest assessment of FDI Strategy in Europe. In the 2025 rankings, the Midlands region climbed six places to secure 2nd position in Europe in the Small European Regions category […]
Midlands Food and Drink Network to Make Debut at CATEX 2025
The Midlands Food and Drink Network is set to make its first-ever appearance at Ireland’s largest foodservice and hospitality event, CATEX 2025, taking place at the RDS Dublin on February 18th -20th. The network will be showcasing some of the finest food and drink producers from the Midlands at Stand K42, inviting attendees to experience […]
Midlands Region Shines with Seven Finalists at the Green Awards 2025
The Midlands region has proudly secured finalists in some of the region’s leading companies for the prestigious Green Awards 2025, underscoring the region’s commitment to sustainability and environmental excellence. C&D Foods from Longford leads the nominations with four distinctions: Athlone’s DPD Ireland, the nation’s leading parcel delivery service, has secured two nominations: Midland Tyre Services […]
Bord na Móna announces nine companies for 2025 Accelerate Green GROW programme
Nine green businesses across Ireland have been selected by Bord na Móna for its Accelerate GROW Programme to support emerging companies in sustainability and climate action. Ireland’s leading accelerator programme for green and sustainable business runs from the Accelerate Green Hub in Lough Boora, Offaly, is designed to empower early-stage enterprises, SMEs, and start-ups driving […]
Midlands Leads the Way: EU Just Transition Fund Projects Showcase Sustainable Innovation
Eastern & Midland Regional Assembly (EMRA), in collaboration with Technological University of the Shannon (TUS), Midlands Campus in Athlone today brought together five key projects funded by the EU Just Transition Fund (EU JTF) who are driving innovation in carbon neutrality and transforming the Midlands region for a panel discussion, dubbed “Green Futures, Sustainable Innovation in the […]
Dreambig Sparks Midlands Manufacturing Revolution
The DREAMBIG programme, led by the ATIM Cluster, expanded to all four Midlands counties in 2024, engaging 91 young people in a dynamic, hands-on introduction to careers in advanced manufacturing from 11th November to the 15th November. This innovative initiative connects students with opportunities in their local region, addressing the challenge of talent attraction in […]
National Hubs Summit takes place in Tullamore
The National Hubs Summit 20024 took place in Tullamore welcoming more than 220 delegates including hub managers, representative bodies, state agencies, and government departments to chart the future of the National Hub Network and discuss its role in transforming how we live, work, and do business. The Midlands is well represented through our Midlands Hubs […]
BiaSol winners in Irish Business Design Challenge 2024
The winners of Design & Crafts Council Ireland’s Irish Business Design Challenge 2024 (IBDC) have been announced at an awards ceremony in the Royal Irish Academy of Music. One of the two main awards winners was BiaSol, the family-owned circular food start-up based in Tullamore. BiaSol produce a range of highly nutritious, zero-waste food products […]
Ericsson’s Athlone R&D centre celebrates 50th anniversary, forges national partnerships for future innovation
One of the largest R&D centres in Ireland Ericsson, a global leader in communications technology and services, is celebrating the 50-year anniversary of its Research and Development (R&D) centre in Athlone. Over the past five decades, the Athlone site has evolved from a factory, initially established in 1974 with 250 employees, to a software development […]
National Women’s Enterprise Day celebrated at the historic Crypt at St Mel’s Cathedral
Businesswomen from across Longford, Laois, Offaly, and Westmeath came together in the Crypt in St Mel’s Cathedral in Longford to celebrate National Women’s Enterprise Day (NWED). An annual Local Enterprise Office (LEO) initiative that is now in its 18th year, this year was bigger than before with over 2,200 attendees at 14 LEO-led events across […]
€4.15m ReSHAPE project launches at TUS
EU Just Transition Fund initiative to upskill 3,900 learners for the low-carbon economy The ReSHAPE project, a landmark initiative to support the Midlands’ shift to a low-carbon economy, has officially launched at Technological University of the Shannon (TUS), Athlone Campus. ReSHAPE—short for Regional Skills Horizon and Pathways to Employment—aims to provide 3,900 learners with funded […]
Advanced Manufacturing celebrated at ATIM Gala Dinner
The future of advanced manufacturing in the Midlands looks bright as close to 200 attendees came together for the annual ATIM Gala Dinner at the Mullingar Park Hotel. Hosted by the ATIM (Advanced Technology in Manufacturing) Cluster, the event saw members and stakeholders from across the region and beyond come together for an evening presenting […]
New €10 million APT Facility at TUS set to transform Ireland’s Polymer and MedTech Industries
The Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Peter Burke TD, officially opened the state-of-the-art Applied Polymer Technologies (APT) research facility at the Technological University of the Shannon (TUS) Athlone Campus. This cutting-edge facility represents a transformative investment in Ireland’s polymer and MedTech industries. The €10 million project began in 2022 and is a key component […]
Mount Lucas Bioeconomy Demonstration Initiative awarded €5 million under EU Just Transition Fund
Minister for Agriculture, Food, and the Marine Charlie McConalogue T.D., Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications Ossian Smyth T.D., and Ministers of State at the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Martin Heydon T.D. and Senator Pippa Hackett have today announced €5 million funding for a new bioeconomy […]
New Programme to Support Economic Growth in Midlands
Ministers Eamon Ryan and Peter Burke attend launch event in Portlaoise A new €3.9m project to support the economic growth of Ireland’s Midlands has been launched at the Cube, Low Carbon Centre of Excellence in Portlaoise. The Midlands Regional Enterprise Plan, Pathway for Just Transition aims to support the economies of Longford, Laois, Offaly and […]
Midlands Food & Drink Network Event Highlights Key Supports for Food Businesses to Thrive
The Midlands Regional Food and Drink Network held a highly successful event titled “Overview of Supports to Help Your Food Business Thrive” on Tuesday, September 24th, at The Village Barn, Main Street, Tyrrellspass, Co. Westmeath. The event is an initiative of the Midlands Regional Enterprise Plan Pathway to Transition, which is co-funded by the Irish […]
In 2023, 1,700 Midlands businesses engaged in upskilling.
In 2023, over 4,600 people and 1,700 businesses in the Midlands region participated in upskilling with Skillnet Ireland Business Network. The vast majority (96-98%) of companies that upskilled their workforce with Skillnet Ireland in 2023 were small and medium enterprises. Skillnet figures breakdown 58% of those who undertook training were men and 42% were women, […]
Midlands Food and Drink Skills Audit Unveils Critical Findings for National Industry
The recently completed Food and Drink Skills Audit, conducted by the Technological University of the Shannon (TUS) in collaboration with the Midlands Regional Enterprise Plan (MREP), has unveiled significant insights and recommendations aimed at bolstering the Irish food and drink industry both regionally and nationally. This comprehensive report, which includes international case studies through TUS’s […]
Ashland completes second expansion of Viatel™ bioresorbable polymers manufacturing and R&D lab in Mullingar
Ashland has completed the second expansion of its pharmaceutical injectables manufacturing and R&D lab at the National Science Park in Mullingar, and will celebrate the moment with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on August 22, 2024. This enhancement, completed as scheduled, significantly expands Ashland’s footprint, capabilities and headcount of their Irish facility focused on delivery of innovative […]
Midlands Region declared Overall Winner at .ie Digital Town Awards 2024
The ‘Midlands Digitisation’ Project take the overall win, as well as the ‘Digital Education’ Award and Athlone’s Midlands Polish Community TV wins ‘Digital Newcomer’ Award The Midlands Region has come out on top at this year’s .ie Digital Town Awards with multiple wins across various categories including being crowned ‘Overall Winner’ at an awards ceremony […]
New Midlands Regional and Town Profiles Showcase Investment Opportunities and Quality of Life
The Midlands Regional Enterprise Plan is proud to announce the launch of its comprehensive Regional and Town Profiles, designed to highlight the Midlands region as the destination of choice for living, working, studying, visiting, and investing. Leveraging the latest data from Census 2022 and other leading sources, these profiles provide a detailed snapshot of the […]
TUS Scoops Top Honours at National Education Awards
Technological University of the Shannon (TUS) has taken top honours at the national Education Awards, held in the Naas, Co Kildare. Defeating notable competitors from other universities, TUS secured the coveted Best Industry/Business – Academic Collaboration accolade for its innovative Athlone Campus Digital Speaker Series. The success didn’t end there for TUS, as its International […]
Midlands projects to receive €18 million under EU Just Transition Fund programme
Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications, Eamon Ryan TD, has announced the 15 projects in the Midlands that will receive grant awards amounting to €18 million from the EU Just Transition Fund (JTF) programme. All of the awarded projects will invest in local communities, to create employment and to diversify the local economy of […]
Atim Cluster in €3m EU Supply Chain Resilience Consortium
Midlands-based Industry Cluster atim cluster will represent Ireland and the Advanced Manufacturing sector in a new International Consortium Initiative launched to support EU businesses to Enhance Resilient Supply Chains for Europe. The ResC4EU Consortium proudly announced the launch of its collaboration and support initiative “Resilient Supply Chains for Europe” (ResC4EU) with €3m in European Union […]
Glenisk awarded Guaranteed Irish Business of the Year 2024
Guaranteed Irish celebrated 50 years supporting businesses in Ireland at their annual Guaranteed Irish Business Awards 2024, with Midlands-based Glenisk taking home 3 Awards at the event, including the overall Business of the Year Award. Winners were announced at a Gala dinner in the RDS where 400 people enjoyed networking and celebrating their achievements over […]
SSE and Bord na Móna to invest up to €1bn in 800MW Onshore Wind projects in Midlands
Two of Ireland’s leading low-carbon energy companies SSE and Bord na Móna have announced a 50:50 joint venture which will target the delivery of up to 800MW of new renewable onshore wind energy for Ireland. This partnership marks one of the largest onshore renewable energy joint ventures in the history of the state. More than […]
Bevcraft listed in FT1000 Europe’s Fastest-Growing Companies
For the third year in a row, Mullingar-based Bevcraft have been named in the annual FT1000: Europe’s Fastest Growing Companies rankings from the Financial Times and Statista. Craft can packaging specialist Bevcraft was one of only 3 Irish companies to make the influential list, as it continues to expand its business with successful international growth. […]
Jazz Pharmaceuticals celebrates 10 years in Athlone
Jazz Pharmaceuticals plc recently held an event at its Athlone site to commemorate 20 years since the founding of the company and mark 10 years in Athlone. The event also highlighted the site’s role in supporting Jazz’s current and future pipeline focus in both neuroscience and oncology, across both drug development and commercial manufacturing. Jazz […]
People’s Discovery Visitor Attraction: A €30m Sustainable Gem mooted for the Midlands
In a bid to transform eco-tourism in the Midlands, plans for a ground-breaking €30 million visitor experience, the People’s Discovery Visitor Attraction, are in development. Nestled in the heart of Ballaghurt Bog in Co. Offaly, the visionary project would centre on sustainability and environmental education. The project is led by Peatlands and People in collaboration […]
Zinkworks and Samsung Collaborate to Showcase rApp Innovations at Mobile World Congress 2024
Athlone-based software services developer, Zinkworks, have announced an exciting collaboration with Samsung to showcase their revolutionary rApps at Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2024 in Barcelona. The event brings together the mobile technology ecosystem at the largest and most influential connectivity event in the world. Held at the Fira Grand Via in Barcelona, it will see […]
Midlands Region Selected as a Financial Times ‘European Region of the Future’ for 2024
The Midlands Region of Ireland has been recognised as a ‘European Region of the Future’ by the Financial Times as part of their latest fDi Intelligence ranking on FDI Strategy. This prestigious acknowledgment reflects the region’s outstanding achievements and potential for future growth, as outlined in the Midlands Regional Enterprise Plan (MREP) to 2024. Enterprise […]
Google Developer Group to launch in Portlaoise
GDG Portlaoise launching on 21 February. A Hub for Tech Enthusiasts to Connect, Learn, and Innovate Portlaoise is set to become the newest addition to the global Google Developer Groups (GDG) network with the launch of the GDG Portlaoise. The official launch event is being hosted by sponsors FRS Recruitment at The Cube – Low […]
Midlands hosts VEX Robotics Regional Finals
The Midlands hosted the regional finals of the 2024 VEX Robotics Competition in Colaiste Choilm, Tullamore on Tuesday 23rd January, with over 200 secondary school students from across the Midlands region taking part. The competition brings Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) learning to life with students taking part in a game-based engineering challenge to […]
Midlands Regional Enterprise Plan establishes Cluster Exchange Forum
Industry Clusters and Networks based across the Midlands came together for the inaugural Midlands Regional Enterprise Plan (MREP) Network & Cluster Exchange Forum. Held in Tullamore, the forum saw the 5 Industry Clusters based across the Midlands coming together to support cross-cluster collaboration as well as supporting stakeholders from academia and government. Cross-cluster collaboration can […]
Midlands towns score highly in Work Life Balance Index 2024
Towns across the Midlands have performed strongly in the Switcher.ie Work Life Balance Index for 2024. The annual index researches Ireland’s towns for local services, hybrid working, family life and leisure to find the best places to live and work. The Work-Life Balance Index includes: The Midlands Winners The best performing town in the region […]
€5m Community and Enterprise Grant Scheme launched under EU Just Transition Fund
Local Community Organisations and Small to Medium Enterprises across the Midlands region are set to benefit from a €5 million funding call under the European Union Just Transition Fund (EU JTF) announced by the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications. The EU JTF Community and Enterprise Grants scheme, administered by Pobal on behalf of […]
C&D Foods announce €48m Longford investment with 100 new jobs
C&D Foods, a division of ABP Food Group, has announced an investment of €48 million for their flagship facility at Edgeworthstown, Co. Longford. The investment, which includes the creation of one hundred new roles in engineering, operations, supply chain and quality assurance will increase the site’s production capacity by 25%. This is in addition to […]
Midlands strongest for IDA Ireland job growth in 2023
Annual results from IDA Ireland show that the Midlands region was the strongest for job growth in 2023, with a 5.8% increase in employment at IDA client companies in the region, reflecting a stable and resilient FDI sector. Nationally, the Modern Manufacturing and Traditional Manufacturing sectors showed the highest levels of job growth in the […]
Novo Nordisk acquire Athlone manufacturing and development facility for €85m
Leading global healthcare company Novo Nordisk has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire a manufacturing and development facility in Athlone, Ireland from Alkermes plc. Under the terms of the agreement, upon the closing of the transaction, Alkermes will be entitled to a one-time cash payment of $85 million ($92.5 million) for the facility and […]
Midlands Advanced Manufacturing celebrated at ATIM Cluster Gala Dinner
The inaugural atim cluster Gala Dinner marked a historic milestone in the journey of advanced manufacturing in the Midlands. The evening brought together many of the region’s top manufacturing companies, education and solutions providers underlining the region’s emergence as a leader in technology and innovation. The event was hosted by the atim cluster, who bring […]
Regional Enterprise Plan Chairs welcome new €145m Scheme to promote economic growth across Regions
Smart Regions Funding will further build capacity and encourage innovation At today’s meeting of the Regional Enterprise Plan National Oversight Group, the Steering Committee Chairs welcomed the new fund of €145 million which was recently announced by Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Simon Coveney and Ministers Dara Calleary and Neale Richmond. The Smart Regions […]
‘Ideas Made Real’ Schools STEM Programme launched by IMR in Mullingar
The Midlands is Pioneering the Future of Innovation with the official launch of the new “Ideas Made Real” programme, an initiative of Irish Manufacturing Research in Mullingar. The dynamic platform is dedicated to nurturing the next generation of visionaries, creators, and leaders by working with schools, students and enterprise to highlight the possibilities of a […]
Connecting our Business Community takes place in Longford
Businesspeople from all over Longford participated in “Connecting our Business Community” – a networking event which perfectly demonstrated the strength of enterprise in the region, with a huge turnout of businesses from major multinationals, to successful exporters, to local SME’s. Hosted by the Longford Local Enterprise Office as part of Longford County Council; the event […]
Abbott Longford celebrates 20 years of Excellence in Diagnostics
Global healthcare leader Abbott is celebrating twenty years of delivering excellence in diagnostics from the company’s manufacturing facility in Longford. Abbott is a leading innovator in the field of diagnostics and its Longford site has received numerous awards thanks to the Longford team’s record of delivering cutting-edge solutions to improve global healthcare. Diagnostic testing provides […]
ICT Skills Survey Finds Potential for over 800 New Midlands Tech Jobs by 2026
The Midlands is set to continue its growth as an increasingly important ICT hub, new research published today suggests. According to the Midlands ICT Cluster Skills Survey, regional companies expect to create up to 800 new ICT jobs over the next 3 years, in addition to over 3,000 already employed in the sector across the […]
Midlands celebrates 4 Ericsson Finalists in Women in STEM Awards 2023
The highly anticipated Women in STEM Awards 2023 celebrate and recognise the incredible achievements and innovations of women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) in Ireland, with the Midlands region celebrating as four women from the Ericsson Athlone team have been named as finalists in the upcoming awards. These awards shine a light on […]
New €24 million fund launches to further support the Just Transition in the Midlands region
Funding of up to €1 million available for local projects, with up to €5 million on offer for strategic, regional flagship projects Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications, Eamon Ryan TD, has today announced a further €24 million for the Midlands region under Ireland’s EU Just Transition Fund (JTF) programme, to provide targeted funding […]
Renewable Hydrogen Hub earmarked for Rhode Green Energy Park
Strategically located where an abundance of renewable energy generation meets the national gas network and the electricity grid; Rhode Green Energy Park in Offaly is earmarked to be one of the first hydrogen demonstration hubs in the country. This is the main finding from the Rhode Renewable Hydrogen Feasibility Study which was commissioned by North […]
18 Midlands Finalists in Irish Family Business Awards 2023
The Irish Family Business Awards are back for 2023, and it’s a strong showing from the Midlands region with 18 Finalists in the Awards. Now in their 5th year, the Irish Family Business Awards recognises the dedication, innovation and resilience of family-run enterprises across the nation. This year, there are 22 diverse categories for businesses […]
Midlands success with 37 Medals at the Blas na hÉireann Irish Food Awards 2023
The reputation and quality of Food & Drink from the Midlands region continues to go from strength to strength, with 37 Medals at the influential Blas na hÉireann Irish Food Awards 2023. Midlands Food and Drink producers took home a total of 13 Gold Medals, 14 Silver Medals and 10 Bronze Medals at the Awards, […]
Midlands to host Medtech and Manufacturing ‘Future of Work’ Seminar
A national seminar exploring the Future of Work in Medtech & Manufacturing takes place in Athlone on Thursday October 5th. The event is a Free Information & Networking Seminar on Funded Training and Industry Insights for Medtech and Manufacturing businesses of all sizes. The Midlands is well-recognised as a centre of excellence in Advanced Manufacturing, […]
Agritech in Midlands wins at Enterprise Ireland Innovation Arena Awards 2023
Biodegradable polymers for mineral bolus systems from PolyBo, and Methane measurement technology from Agri Data Analytics were two innovative Midlands Agritech winners at this year’s Enterprise Ireland Innovation Arena Awards. The winners of the Innovation Arena competition, hosted by Enterprise Ireland in association with the National Ploughing Association, were announced at an awards ceremony attended […]
Accelerate Green 2024 now open for green innovators
Sustainability Entrepreneurs in the Midlands encouraged to apply for the 2024 Accelerate Green executive accelerator programme from Bord na Móna. Leading Executive Accelerator programme for Green Business Applications are now open until November 10th 2023, for companies to take part in Bord na Móna’s Accelerate Green programme. SMEs in the Midlands looking to scale, start-ups […]
Midlands success with 19 Finalists in the Blas na hÉireann Irish Food Awards 2023
The reputation and quality of Food & Drink from the Midlands region continues to go from strength to strength, with 19 Food and Drink producers from the region named as Finalists in the influential Blas na hÉireann Irish Food Awards 2023. The Awards are the latest in a string of accolades for Midlands Food and […]
Fáilte Ireland open €17m Just Transition Fund Scheme for Midlands regenerative tourism projects
Fáilte Ireland has today (29 August 2023) launched an open call for Expressions of Interest for its Investment Grant-Aid Scheme for Private & Community SMEs as part of the EU Just Transition Fund Regenerative Tourism & Placemaking Scheme for Ireland’s Midlands 2023-2026. The scheme aims to transform tourism across 8 counties in Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands […]
Mobile NZEB Training Unit launched by LOETB Mount Lucas National Construction Training Centre
Laois Offaly Education and Training Board LOETB continue to lead the way in Construction Training with the launch of an innovative Mobile NZEB Training Unit by the National Construction Training Centre in Mount Lucas. The new Mobile Training Unit will be used to demonstrate NZEB Construction Training and Career Opportunities nationwide, and was officially launched […]
Call now open for €10 million Bioeconomy Demonstration Initiative under Just Transition Fund
Minister for Agriculture, Food, and the Marine Charlie McConalogue T.D., along with his colleagues Ministers of State Martin Heydon T.D. and Senator Pippa Hackett today announced the opening of a new innovation support measure for the bioeconomy in the Midlands region. The ‘Bioeconomy Demonstration Initiative’ is part of the EU Just Transition Fund for Ireland […]
Female entrepreneurs in the Midlands encouraged to apply for ACORNS new business development programme
Female Entrepreneurs across the Midlands are encouraged to apply for ACORNS, which is a free development programme for early-stage female entrepreneurs based in rural Ireland and funded through the Rural Innovation and Development Fund by the Department of Agriculture, Food, and the Marine. The deadline for applications is midnight, September 22nd. In a survey carried […]
3 Midlands Finalists in 2023 Sustainable Business Impact Awards
The finalists for the 2023 Sustainable Business Impact Awards from Chambers Ireland have been announced, with 3 Midlands businesses – DPD Ireland, the FACTORY, and Ballykilcavan Brewing – in the running for awards. The Chambers Ireland Sustainable Business Impact Awards are run in association with the Department of Rural and Community Development and recognise initiatives […]
New ‘Work, Live Westmeath’ Remote Work Initiative Launched
Work, Live Westmeath is a new Remote Working initiative by Westmeath County Council showcasing Westmeath’s endless possibilities as a great place to live, work or start a business. The new brand and marketing campaigns are set to highlight Westmeath as a vibrant location that boasts a scenic and rich natural environment with a great quality […]
Launch of Renewable Energy Hub at Birr Technology Centre
The Renewable Energy Hub has been opened at the Birr Technology Centre to create a centre of excellence for firms, both local and international, developing and supplying renewable energy technologies. Firms based at the hub will provide a range of services to the commercial sector and households seeking renewable energy solutions. Pippa Hackett, Minister of […]
21 Midlands Finalists in Irish Quality Food & Drink Awards 2023
Food and Drink producers in the Midlands have received 21 nominations in the Irish Quality Food and Drink Awards 2023, in recognition of the world-class food and drink producers located throughout the region. Now in their 10th year, the Irish Quality Food and Drink Awards have become a well-recognised badge of excellence amongst customers and […]
Panelto Foods establishes UK and Ireland platform within 3i-backed European Bakery Group
Longford-based Panelto Foods, the bakery group specialising in bake-off artisan breads, have announced that they will join the European Bakery Group, establishing the UK and Ireland platform within the pan-European bakery group, backed by 3i Group plc. European Bakery Group was formed in May 2023 with the combination of Dutch Bakery, a leading bakery group […]
Midland Steel win European funding to make Industry Greener
It is estimated globally that the carbon footprint generated from raw material steel is 1.4 tonnes per produced tonne of steel according to the IEA, and 1.85 tonnes according to the World Steel Association. Waste generated within the Reinforcement Steel manufacturing process is estimated to be between 2% – 8%. Tony Woods, CEO of Midland […]
Leading Software Engineering Firm Sidero Acquired by GlobalLogic
Acquisition Further Expands GlobalLogic’s Engineering, Architecture, and Cloud Software Development Capabilities and European Footprint Athlone-based Sidero is a founding member of the Midlands ICT Cluster GlobalLogic, a Hitachi Group Company and a leader in Digital Engineering, today announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Sidero Ltd., an Ireland-based engineering services and […]
TUS invest €8.5m in Flexible Learning for academic year
The Technological University of the Shannon (TUS) is making more than 1,500 flexible learning places worth more than €8.5 million available for the next academic year. These HCI and Springboard skilled focused programmes were developed following detailed engagement with local industry. Funded by the Higher Education Authority (HEA), Human Capital Initiative (HCI) and Springboard are […]
Information Seminar on €20m Midlands Bioeconomy Initiative Scheme
Under the EU Just Transition Fund, the Midlands region will benefit from a €20m Bioeconomy Demonstration Initiative Scheme to invest in sustainable bioeconomy development. The Department of Agriculture, Food & the Marine, and host partner The Cube in Portlaoise, will hold an information session regarding the scheme. As Ireland moves towards a low-carbon economy, the […]
Midlands centre stage at BoostUp! 2023 IRELAND Edition
Advanced Manufacturing in the Midlands took centre stage as Mullingar hosted BoostUp! 2023 IRELAND Edition, with atim cluster partnering with EIT Manufacturing and hosts Irish Manufacturing Research to bring the innovative Start-Up Competition to the region. There was success for the region in the competition with Mersus Technologies from Athlone taking a podium place, and […]
Offaly ready to rival Europe’s key cities as green Data Centre Hub
Offaly is well-placed to become a new hub for data centres with the potential to create thousands of green jobs, according to a new report by technology company Siemens. The study, commissioned by Offaly County Council, explores how Offaly in the Irish Midlands region could rival Dublin, Frankfurt, London, Amsterdam and Paris in being an […]
Midlands Women in Tech Career Networking Morning
On Saturday 24th June 2023, Midlands Women in Tech will host a Career Networking Morning at the Ardonagh Analytics Lab in Mullingar from 10am to 12pm. The Midlands Women in Tech community aims to close the gender gap and to help women and girls embrace Tech by educating and inspiring more women about the opportunities […]
Success for Midlands with 2 Wins at the National Enterprise Awards 2023
Mullingar-based Watt Footprint have taken home the National ‘One to Watch’ Award at the National Enterprise Awards 2023. Watt Footprint is an innovative tech-enabled energy management service company delivering significant energy savings for businesses. The Midlands also took home a Regional Award, with Offaly’s Glass Innovations taking home the Mid-East Regional Award. The region was […]
Accelerate Green Conference – Ireland’s Sustainable Future 2023
The Accelerate Green Conference – Ireland’s Sustainable Future 2023 saw hundreds of visionary leaders, industry experts, and change makers assemble in the Midlands for an event focused on driving sustainable solutions for a better tomorrow. The conference featured thought-provoking talks, engaging discussions and innovative ideas that will shape the future of our planet. Chairman of […]
Ardonagh Analytics Lab officially opens new office in Mullingar
The Ardonagh Analytics Lab, part of the global insurance distribution platform, The Ardonagh Group, moved into its new state-of-the-art office in Mullingar as part of its ambitious expansion strategy. The lab, which provides insights for Ardonagh’s set of international businesses, first opened in 2021, with support from the Irish Government through IDA Ireland. The Analytics […]
Midlands ICT Skills Survey 2023
The Midlands ICT Cluster with the Midlands Regional Skills Forum are conducting a Skills Survey to identify Critical Vacancies, Key Skills Needs, and Levels of Upskilling required to ensure alignment among employers in the region, education & training providers, and regional supporting agencies. The Survey relates to ICT and Digital Skills, and is open to […]
Grow Remote Summit 2023
The Midlands is set to host a major National Remote Working Conference on June 8-9th, with an impressive line-up of international leaders and experts in Remote Working descending on Portlaoise to bring together the remote working community, leaders in government, business innovators, and employers to explore the future of work. The last 2 years has […]
Midlands hosts Climate Action Conference
Tullamore played host to a National Conference on the Economic Opportunities arising from Climate Action, and how local government can support as drivers for change. The event was organised by CARO Climate Action Regional Offices and the Local Authorities, and MC on the day was Newstalk’s Jonathan Healy. In his keynote address, Minister for Enterprise […]
€169m EU Just Transition Fund Programme for Midlands officially launched
Massive programme of investment will help support green jobs, energy and agriculture – in the move away from fossil fuels and peat extraction. Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications, Eamon Ryan, along with Ministers across Government parties, today launched Ireland’s Programme for the EU Just Transition Fund at the Corlea Trackway Visitor Centre in […]
Launch of the Midlands ICT Cluster Action Plan
Today, Minister of State for Trade Promotion, Digital and Company Regulation, Dara Calleary, marked the official launch of the Midlands ICT Cluster Action Plan at the Building Better Business event held at the Midlands Park Hotel, Portlaoise. In launching the Action Plan, Minister Calleary said “I am delighted today to be publishing the Action Plan […]
Midlands County Enterprise Award winners 2023
The 4 winners of County Enterprise Awards for the Midlands are the perfect snapshot of the innovative SME’s which are at the heart of enterprise in the region. As part of National Enterprise Week, the Local Enterprise Offices in Laois, Longford, Offaly and Westmeath each awarded their County Enterprise Award Winners for 2023. The four […]
The CUBE Low Carbon Centre of Excellence opens in Portlaoise
The CUBE Low Carbon Centre of Excellence has been officially opened by Minister Simon Coveney, Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment. The 10,000 square foot Low Carbon Centre of Excellence, a dedicated centre for the development of new business and economic activity, will in turn support and assist a transition to a low carbon economy. […]
Two Midlands firms listed in annual FT1000 Europe Rankings
Two Mullingar-based firms, Bevcraft and Zoosh Digital, have been named in the annual FT1000: Europe’s Fastest Growing Companies rankings from the Financial Times and Statista. Craft can producer Bevcraft was the top performing Irish company on the influential ranking. This is the second year the company has featured on the list, as it continues to […]
Bord na Móna launch Accelerate Green 2023
Bord na Móna will invest €5m over the next three years in Accelerate Green, its Offaly-based accelerator programme for green innovation companies. Accelerate Green is the leading accelerator programme in Ireland dedicated to scaling companies leading the response to climate action and sustainability, by developing products and services based on green innovation. The semi-state company […]
European Digital Innovation Hub confirmed for Mullingar
A significant win for the Midlands region as a European Digital Innovation Hub, FactoryxChange, has been announced for Mullingar as part of the Digital Europe Programme. FactoryxChange is a consortium led by Enterprise Ireland and IDA Technology Centre Irish Manufacturing Research (IMR) at the National Science Park in Mullingar. The Hub will focus on digital […]
TUS secure €1.3m for Bioeconomy Research
Technological University of the Shannon have secured over €1.3m in funding to support major Bioeconomy Research projects in the coming years under the Policy and Strategic Studies Research Call from the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine. The Bioeconomy sector is one of the most important in Europe, employing close to 17.4 million people, […]
Midlands winners at Green Awards 2023
The Midlands is celebrating as 2 leading businesses in the region have won at the Green Awards 2023, which recognise the very best in Green Business and Sustainability across Ireland. Athlone-based DPD Ireland are the largest parcel delivery company in the country, handling over 20 millions parcels each year. The company have put sustainability at […]
Athlone named a Top 10 City for Foreign Direct Investment
There’s international recognition for the Midlands as an investment destination, as Athlone is again named a Top 10 City for Foreign Direct Investment for 2023 by FDI Intelligence from the Financial Times. The influential rankings highlight the best and brightest among Europe’s Investment Destinations. This years report featured over 370 cities, from major cities such […]
Enterprise Ireland show 4% jobs growth in Midlands for 2022
Midlands businesses backed by Enterprise Ireland increased employment numbers by 4% in 2022, according to new figures released by the Agency today. The total number employed by businesses working with Enterprise Ireland in the region now stands at close to 12,000. In 2021, the Midlands region was the fastest-growing region in the country for the […]
EU officially approves €169 million Just Transition Fund for the Midlands Region
The European Commission has today officially approved Ireland’s Territorial Just Transition Plan and associated Programme for 2021-2027. The approval has been welcomed by the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications, Eamon Ryan, and follows government approval on 29 November 2022. The EU Just Transition Fund (EUJTF) is targeted at the Midlands region. The designated […]
Midlands announced as first region to rollout QHubs Programme
The Midlands region has been selected as the first region in Ireland to rollout the new QHubs Quality and Innovation Management Programme. QHubs is a world-first Quality and Innovation programme for Remote Working Hubs, aimed at fostering a culture of continuous improvement, ongoing innovation, and best-in-class leadership across Ireland’s national network for remote hubs. As […]
Midlands Advanced Manufacturing Survey Launched
Survey highlights critical skills and upskilling needs of Manufacturing Enterprise in the Midlands The Midlands Regional Skills Forum today launched the Midlands Advanced Manufacturing Survey 2022. The survey gives clear direction in terms of the critical vacancies and upskilling needs of business in the region, while also ensuring employers are fully aware of all available […]
Minister Calleary visits Midlands as part of implementation of Regional Enterprise Plan
Minister of State for Trade Promotion, Digital and Company Regulation, Dara Calleary TD, travelled to Co. Longford recently where he discussed progress and implementation of the recently launched Midlands Regional Enterprise Plan with steering committee members. The Minister attended the meeting of the steering committee, where he met with Dr Anne Cusack, Chair of the […]
Tánaiste sets out Ireland’s ambition for a green and digital economy
Tánaiste, Ministers Calleary and English launch White Paper on Enterprise Government sets out Enterprise Policy direction to 2030 The Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Leo Varadkar TD and Ministers of State Dara Calleary TD and Damien English TD, have launched the White Paper on Enterprise which was approved by Government today. Following […]
Midlands Finalists in National Digital Awards
Digital Business Ireland, together with Permanent TSB have announced the top five finalists in each of the 22 categories of this year’s National Digital Awards. Seven finalists have been announced from the Midlands. The annual series rewards businesses, people and organisations who have demonstrated excellence in digital. Focusing on three of the nominees, congratulations to […]
Technimark to create 80 jobs with €26m investment in Longford facility
Technimark, a global manufacturing leader for the healthcare market, announced today that it will create 80 new highly skilled roles over the next two years as it expands its operations in Longford, with a 50,000-square-foot addition, doubling the size of its existing plant. Technimark will be investing €26 million to expand the facility’s capacity in […]
TUS Learning Gates open across the Midlands
The Technological University of the Shannon has opened new ‘TUS Learning Gates’ at locations across the Midlands. Several ‘TUS Learning Gates’ are to be located throughout the Midlands region, ensuring access to Higher Education opportunities is available to those living and working in surrounding areas throughout the Midlands. The first TUS Learning Gates to open […]
Official Launch of the Midlands ICT Cluster
Today, Ms Sinéad Pillion, Head of Operations, Ericsson Athlone and Industry Chair of the Midlands ICT Cluster Steering Committee marked the official launch of the Midlands ICT Cluster at an event held at the Ericsson Software Campus, Athlone, County Westmeath. In launching the Cluster, Ms Pillion said “It’s a pleasure to officially launch the Midlands […]
Digital Town .IE Team visit Midlands Hubs
Brilliant morning at BloomHQ, Mountrath with Digital Town .IE who came to tour some of the Hubs in the Midlands today. Also visiting stream BIRR, and here to discover all about Digital in the Midlands, and how it relates to our Midlands Enterprise Plan. Covering everything from Vex Robotics programmes for schools with Offaly County […]
Remote Working being celebrated for Culture Night 22
The culture of #RemoteWork is being celebrated in the Midlands, and right across Ireland, for Culture Night 2022 thanks to Grow Remote. A series of events will take place at 20 locations across the country to mark Culture Night, in Ireland’s largest ever gathering of remote workers, to highlight the importance and potential of Remote Work in our […]
Midlands at the centre of building a new Ireland.
John Kelly is the Manager of the LOETB – National Construction Training Centre, Mount Lucas, County Offaly and recently he took me on a tour of the 33-acre sight. It is the only place in Ireland doing the national scaffolding apprenticeship which was officially launched in July by Minister Simon Harris. At the time he also […]
Brother and Sister ‘lockdown’ success story
“People in Ireland aren’t aware of the amount of funding and support that’s out there for them.” (Ruairi Dooley BiaSol) When brother and sister Ruari (31) and Niamh Dooley (28) were little they never got on! With tales of ‘Barbie haircutting’ and ‘soap on toothbrushes’, it’s hard to believe the Tullamore based brother and […]
New Film Studios for Mullingar
Hammerlake Studios are planning a 460,000sq.ft Studio Campus in Mullingar, Co. Westmeath. The development may become Ireland’s largest film studio facility. It is set to produce movies and shows for the global market and create 1,000 jobs in Lough Sheever Business Park. 300 construction staff will be employed during the building phase, with the first phase […]
