RegTech Forum showcases the North West as a hub for RegTech Innovation

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The North West is taking centre stage in financial technology innovation, with a RegTech Forum and conference hosted at the historic Great Hall on Ulster University’s Magee Campus.

The event, supported by Invest Northern Ireland, Derry City and Strabane District Council (DCSDC), and Ulster University is being attended by the Lord Mayor of the City of London, Alderman Alastair King, and over 100 industry leaders, regulators, academics, and innovators. It will showcase the North West’s potential to lead in regulatory and supervisory technology, addressing pressing global challenges in governance, risk, and compliance.

This event underscores the North West’s potential to become a global leader in RegTech innovation.

Conor Murphy, Minister for the Economy 

John Healy, Chair of Invest NI: “This event is a significant milestone in establishing the North West as a premier destination for fintech investment and innovation. With our cross border connections and growing talent pipeline, Northern Ireland is in an excellent position to take the lead in addressing the complex regulatory challenges of the financial sector. We are excited to welcome key stakeholders from across the UK and Ireland to witness this potential firsthand.”

Economy Minister, Conor Murphy, highlighted the significance of the RegTech Forum taking place in the North West: “This event underscores the North West’s potential to become a global leader in RegTech innovation. By harnessing the region’s strategic advantages, all-island expertise and strong partnerships between Invest NI, Council, industry, academia, and regulators, we are building a foundation for transformative innovation in financial regulation. Today’s event not only highlights these unique strengths but also showcases what can be achieved through collaboration on a global stage.”

The Lord Mayor of the City of London Corporation, Alastair King said: “It was a pleasure to attend and speak at the RegTech Forum. The appetite for growth and innovation was palpable and the City Corporation is honoured to be a part of it.

We are excited to welcome key stakeholders from across the UK and Ireland to witness this potential firsthand.

John Healy, Chairman of Board, Invest NI

“This is a truly exciting time for Northern Ireland, with the region beginning to emerge a leader in the RegTech sector, playing a huge part in driving the UK’s financial and professional services sector – we will continue to work closely with the region to build on its brilliant work across the UK.”

Earlier in the day Alderman King was officially welcomed to the Guildhall by the Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District, Councillor Lilian Seenoi Barr, who said it was an exciting opportunity to discuss the region’s growing proposition. “I was delighted to welcome Alderman King to the city today, where we discussed our priorities as civic leaders, as well as common interests in business and innovation. I feel that now is a significant time of opportunity for the North West with its unique positioning on the EU-UK border, combined with the ground breaking research and development work that is being delivered locally, as well as existing expertise available, across multiple regulated sectors.”

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Derry celebrates St Patrick’s Day in style as bumper crowds attend city centre parade

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Derry cemented it’s reputation as a major destination to celebrate St Patrick’s Day in as tens of thousands of people packed the city centre to the rafters the city’s annual parade.

Over 800 performers took part in the North West Carnival Initiative’s procession through the streets that featured sports clubs, dance troupes and community organisations all celebrating the theme of Flowers, Fur and Feathers.

Mayor of Derry and Strabane, Councillor Lilian Seenoi Barr, joined St Patrick to lead the procession which began inside the walls and travelled down through Shipquay Street past the local landmarks of the Guildhall and the Peace Bridge and concluded on Strand Road.

“What a wonderful day in our city centre,” said Mayor Barr. “Leading the Derry St Patrick’s Day parade along with hundreds of talented young people is an experience I will never forget.
“I want to acknowledge all the hard work that went into this year’s St Patrick’s Day festivities, both from the Council team, the North West Carnival Initiative and all their statutory and community partners.

“But most of all I want to thank the thousands of local people who lined the streets to watch the parade and created an atmosphere like no other.

“Nobody throws a party better than our Council area and we proved that again today.”

Other highlights of the day’s festivities included live music at the main stage in the Guildhall Square, which had people dancing in the streets.

The Craft Village was also buzzing with live traditional music and Irish dancing, while Derry’s Guildhall was packed with revellers enjoying the traditional Irish music and céilí dance session.
Head of Culture with Derry City and Strabane District Council, Aeidin McCarter, said early indications were of another record breaking crowd in attendance.

“Thank you to our Festival and Events team and all our partners for co-ordinating another successful St Patrick’s Day celebration.
“A lot of unseen work takes place behind the scenes to make sure an event of this scale runs smoothly but it is all worthwhile when we see thousands of people having a positive experience.
“We will process the data over the coming days but early indications are that we have surpassed 30,000 spectators for a second successive year which we are delighted about.
“Visitors from outside the Council area look high as well as we continue to build our reputation as a venue to celebrate St Patrick’s Day in.”

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Strabane BID celebrates local culinary excellence as three establishments earn top honours

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Strabane BID is delighted to congratulate three local establishments on their outstanding success at The Irish Restaurant Ulster Regional Awards held on April 1st at the Hillgrove Hotel in Monaghan.

Oysters Restaurant achieved remarkable recognition, winning both the Best Restaurant award and Best Chef award for Vincent Mahon in the Tyrone category. The Thirsty Filly was named Best Newcomer for Tyrone, while The Banks Restaurant’s Shane Breslin earned the prestigious Best Restaurant Manager award for Tyrone.

The award ceremony featured strong representation from Strabane, with seven local establishments nominated, including Oysters, The Thirsty Filly, The Banks Restaurant, The Cherry Tree, Tusk Restaurant, The Farmers Home and The Harp and Fiddle.

A special acknowledgment goes to John McGowan from The Farmer’s Home, who has been shortlisted for the All Ireland Outstanding Achievement Award.

All regional winners, along with John McGowan, will attend the All Ireland awards ceremony on May 19th in Dublin.

Congratulating the winners the Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Cllr Lilian Seenoi Barr said: “This outstanding achievements by our local restaurants showcases the exceptional culinary talent we have here in Strabane. Their success not only brings recognition to these fine establishments but also highlights our town as a growing food destination in Northern Ireland. I extend my warmest congratulations to all winners and nominees, and wish them continued success at the All Ireland awards in May.”

Echoing the Mayor’s comments Kieran Kennedy, chair of Strabane BID said: “The success of our local eateries demonstrates the remarkable quality and innovation that our local hospitality sector brings to the table. I’m immensely proud to see these businesses receive the recognition they deserve for their hard work, creativity, and commitment to excellence. These awards help put Strabane firmly on the map as a culinary destination and contribute significantly to our town’s economic vitality and visitor appeal.”

Emma McGill, Strabane Town Centre Development Manager, added: “Having seven Strabane establishments nominated and three winning prestigious awards is a testament to the tremendous growth and quality of our local food scene. The dedication of these restauranteurs, chefs and staff to delivering exceptional dining experiences is helping transform our town centre into a vibrant destination. These achievements reflect the passion and entrepreneurial spirit that make Strabane special, and we’re excited to support their journey to the All Ireland awards in May.”

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Eight new food spots to try this Christmas

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Whether you’re planning a special evening out with loved ones, or just need a pit stop during the Christmas shopping, here are some exciting new eateries in Derry and Strabane for you to try this festive season.

Stitch & Weave

Gift yourself stunning views at this new bar and restaurant on Ebrington Square, overlooking Derry’s River Foyle and Peace Bridge.

Enjoy seasonal dishes with local produce, treat your friends to a Prosecco ‘tower’, or order a warming glass of the restaurant’s own newly-launched whiskey, Cask 1782.

Clipper Quay Street Food Market

Does your Christmas crew struggle to agree on what kind of food they’re after? Avoid a festive fallout and head to this bustling Derry street food market, where there’s something to suit everyone’s tastes.

Think juicy smash burgers from Notorious Street Food, giant New York-style pizza slices from Cugino’s, and delicious sweet crepes from Scoops Ahoy, all with views of the River Foyle.

Social Studio

As the name suggests, the atmosphere is as good as the food in this lively restaurant in Derry’s Cathedral Quarter.

Fuel up ahead of some present shopping with the Brunchin’ and Lunchin’ daytime menu, or make an evening of it with dinner and drinks from the extensive cocktail menu.

Café Central

When you purchase coffee, cake or lunch from this Bishop Street café, the money you spend will help women and families supported by its parent charity, Foyle Women’s Aid.

There are some delicious Christmas specials on the menu, and don’t forget to pick up a loyalty card – with the lovely atmosphere, great service and delicious food, you’re sure to be back again.

The Thirsty Filly

This cute and cosy café, located at the Old Schoolhouse in Strabane, serves hot drinks, homebakes and an epic festive toastie with all the trimmings, on Scarpello sourdough.

Left your Christmas shopping to the last minute? There are New Kid coffee beans, reusable cups and cafetieres on sale too – the perfect gift for any coffee aficionado.

The Banks Restaurant

Also in Strabane is award-winning restaurant The Banks, overlooking the banks of the River Mourne. Enjoy the view as you tuck into lunch or dinner with locally sourced, seasonal dishes.

You can even treat yourself to an overnight stay at The Banks, in one of the tastefully decorated en-suite bedrooms above the restaurant.

Castle Bistro

From its new home in Derry’s Craft Village, the Castle Bistro serves up brunch, dinner and cocktails, plus some lip-smacking vegan options.

There are paintings by local artists on the walls, local ingredients on your plate, and local spirits and beers on the drinks menu too.

Oui Bakery

You’ll often find a queue outside Oui Bakery, also in the Craft Village – and once you’ve tried its beautiful bakes, it’s easy to see why.

Parisian chef Laurent Pirone pours decades of expertise into his creations – which include almond croissants, pains au chocolat, sourdough loaves and the seriously indulgent white chocolate and pistachio spiral rolls.

Treat your loved ones – and yourself – to a ‘oui’ treat this Christmas!

If that’s got you in the mood to try out some more of the fantastic restaurants and cafes in the North West, the entire month of February is dedicated to showcasing the LegenDerry food and drink on offer locally.

During Love LegenDerry Food Month, a variety of events and experiences will be held across Derry and Strabane to promote the region’s outstanding food and drink, and the people who produce it.  

The programme includes a range of unique events created by food producers and chefs to showcase the high-quality produce that can be found throughout the region including a Dart Mountain Cheese tour and taste experience which will take you into the heart of the Sperrins to visit Derry’s award-winning artisan cheese producer, the Oyster and Stout Festival celebrating the Lough Foyle Native Oyster, and the launch of the city’s newest food tour, Derry By Fork.

For more information on Love LegenDerry, visit  www.legenderryfood.com/events 

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NW RegTech ambitions top of the agenda during City of London Visit

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The Lord Mayor of the City of London, Alderman Alastair King, was in Derry on 9th December for a series of engagements building on the North West’s strong connection with the City of London.

Alderman King and the visiting delegation were welcomed to the Guildhall by the Mayor of Derry and Strabane, Councillor Lilian Seenoi Barr, who took the opportunity to discuss shared interests in business, the adoption of technology and innovation. The City of London is a global leader in the Financial and Professional Services sector, and the visit was a timely opportunity to highlight the City Deal projects that will bring about growth, investment and prosperity for the region and ongoing collaborative work locally to establish the world’s first multi-sector RegTech Supercluster here in the North West to the City’s international ambassador.

Welcoming the Lord Mayor on his first visit to Derry, Councillor Barr said: “I was delighted to welcome Alderman King to the city, building on the strong ties we already enjoy with the City of London. We discussed the many strategic advantages of living and working here in the North West, in particular the work that is going into developing our RegTech proposition. “We offer a compelling package for global investors, which is why it’s so important to get the message out there through our partners in the US and the City of London, who can assist in tapping into RegTech global market opportunities.”

Speaking after the meeting, Alderman King said: “It was pleasure to meet the Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District, Lilian Seenoi Barr, policymakers and business leaders across Derry today to discuss how we can further grow our already strong relationships, build on the Northern Ireland’s excellent work in the RegTech sector and on bringing out further regulatory reform.

“Northern Ireland is a leader in financial services and we look forward to continuing the conversation on how to grow the financial and professional services sectors across the UK.”

The delegation went on to attend a special RegTech Forum event led by Council, Invest Northern Ireland and Ulster University where the Lord Mayor and London City representatives met with partners from DCSD Council, Donegal County Council, Atlantic Technological University (ATU), Ulster University, and Catalyst, and over 100 industry leaders, regulators, academics, and innovators. 

The Forum was chaired by Invest N. Ireland Chair John Healy, and during the event Council’s Investment Manager Rosalind Young, launched a special Innovation Challenge in partnership with the City of London Corporation. The initiative encourages local companies to generate creative solutions for regulatory challenges which could contribute to shaping the future of RegTech.

Speaking afterwards Ms Young said: “We are inviting innovators to showcase their ideas and help address critical ESG and AI issues with support from global experts. It’s an exciting opportunity to foster collaboration between cutting technology companies to address the challenges faced by the financial services sector and contribute to developing new technologies and identifying solutions that could assist businesses by addressing real-world regulatory challenges.”

To find out more about the RegTech Supercluster and how local companies can get involved, go to https://www.regtechsupercluster.co

RegTechForum Members with Lord Mayor of the City of London
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Seven days of activity across 50 venues revealed for Derry and Strabane’s 2024 Halloween celebration

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The overall programme for the City and District will run over seven days from Friday October 25th to Thursday October 31st 2024 and will feature activity in over 50 venues.

The Derry Halloween celebrations, the largest festival of their kind in Europe, will focus on ‘Awakening the Walled City’ trail within the streets of the city centre from Monday 28th until Wednesday 30th October and will climax with a ‘Carnival of the Dead’ themed Halloween parade and fireworks display on Thursday October 31st.

Strabane’s Halloween celebrations will include trick or treat trails, street theatre, food stalls, dinosaur shows, magicians and much more in Castle Street, Abercorn Square and the Alley Theatre.

The activity begins with the Castlederg Apple Fair on Friday October 25th and Saturday October 26th and includes various community events across the district including the Halloween Hoolie in Castlederg and Newtownstewart’s Scarecrow trail.
A number of key elements to the Derry Halloween programming were highlighted for Members including In Your Space Circus’ Witchy Wonderland on the City Walls, Haunted Projections by Guildhall Production Studio on the Austins and Bishop Street Court House buildings, the LUXE hosted Elemental Garden in Ebrington Square and Rodafonio – a travelling street theatre act created by renowned American designer and musician Cesar Alvarez.

Other highlights will include Stelzen Art Time Travelers in the grounds of the Cathedral Quarter, Studio 2’s Hocus Pocus sisters in the City of Bones, a Back to the Future themed street performance by New Gate Arts, interactive performances by the North West Regional College’s Music and Performing Arts students as well as Magical Science Shows in the Guildhall.

The Haunted Harvest Market will feature LegenDerry Food in Guildhall Square and will give the public the opportunity to sample the best of locally sourced and home-grown food from across the district.

“Officers have been working closely with local providers, creatives and performers as well as international level acts to develop a dynamic and comprehensive programme for Halloween 2024,” explained Head of Culture at Council, Aeidin McCarter.

“Activity is planned across the district from Friday October 25th and climaxing on Thursday October 31st with the city’s Carnival of the Dead Halloween Parade featuring some of the city’s finest performers and culminating in the festival finale fireworks display where all eyes will be on the River Foyle for a deathly display of pyrotechnics.

“We are confident that programming for 2024 will build on our reputation as Europe’s largest Halloween Festival and an internationally renowned visitor experience at this time of year,”

Other programming elements revealed at this week’s meeting are the return of the Hay Bale Sculpture Trail in and around Strabane which will see over 12 groups and community organisations get involved in Halloween activities by creating their own Hay Bale Sculptures using a perfect blend of creative charm and spooky thrills.

Other Derry Halloween highlights include the Monster Fun Fair at Ebrington, Spark Drummers, Uncle Doom and his organ of Doom, Pop Up Choir Performances, Street Walkabouts, Haunted Houses, Live Music, Arts and Crafts, Kids Halloween Disco, Ghost Tours on the City Walls, Wailing Nuns, Wicked Windows, City Centre Dressing, City Dance’s Walter on the Dance Floor and a city centre trick or treat trail.

Members also heard that Officers have been working closely with local creative and community sectors which will also see programming from the Playhouse, Echo Echo, Nerve Centre, An Cultúrlann and Glen Community Development.

Council’s Culture and Business teams are organising a Halloween Business Engagement event on the 2nd October, to allow the business, tourism, retail and hospitality sectors to receive practical support on how to leverage the Halloween activities to enhance their business.

Marketing activities for Derry Halloween will include digital initiatives, broadcast, print, consumer engagement and collaborative campaigns with Visit Derry and Tourism Northern Ireland.

New approaches for the 2024 Derry Halloween campaign include podcast advertising, additional digital channels, a media drop, and the use of Augmented Reality to enhance engagement.

The campaign aims to work closely with Tourism Ireland to position Derry as the Capital of Halloween in their global drive to position Ireland as the Home of Halloween.

The full Halloween programme can be found at www.derryhalloween.com.

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Ulster University hosts prestigious European Parliament John Hume exhibition

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To mark the twenty-fifth anniversary year of the Belfast Good Friday agreement, Ulster University welcomes an exhibition for the first time to Northern Ireland, to celebrate one of the occasion’s principal architects, John Hume. In partnership with the European Parliament Liaison Office in the UK and The John and Pat Hume Foundation, the exhibit which launched yesterday evening in Derry~Londonderry, will embark on a year-long tour across the university campuses including Coleraine and Belfast.

The display also honours twenty-five years since Hume was jointly awarded the Nobel Peace Prize with David Trimble for their efforts to find a peaceful solution to the conflict in Northern Ireland. The exhibition, “He made hope and history rhyme” takes inspiration from the words of fellow Nobel prize winner and friend, Seamus Heaney.

Professor Cathy Gormley-Heenan, Provost Ulster University expresses:

“As our year long programme of events reflecting on the Belfast Good Friday agreement draws to a close, its only right that we return again to the architects of change that were instrumental in bringing about the peaceful times that we live in– with all the opportunities and potential they created. We are delighted to partner with the European Parliament Liaison Office UK and The John and Pat Hume Foundation to host this prestigious exhibition at Ulster University. As a son of the city, it is fitting that the exhibition launches its 2024 tour of all our campuses across the region in his home of Derry~Londonderry”  

“An MEP for quarter of a century and European of the Year, Hume worked tirelessly to broker peace and reconciliation in his native land. The everyday injustices of life in the north and especially in his divided hometown led Hume to join the civil rights movement in the 1960s and to forge a philosophy encapsulated in this quote: “Difference is of the essence of humanity. Difference is an accident of birth and it should therefore never be the source of hatred or conflict. The answer to difference is to respect it. Therein lies a most fundamental principle of peace: respect for diversity.”

Susanne Oberhauser, Director of the European Parliament Liaison Office in the UK comments;

“John Hume never tired of reminding us how the peace process in Northern Ireland has been so heavily inspired by the example of the European Parliament and the European project. As he liked to recall: “The union of Europe was the inspiration for our [Good Friday] agreement. The first time I went to Strasbourg in 1979 as a Member of the European Parliament, and I went to neighbouring Germany, I thought that if, in 1945, someone had said that these two countries would be reunited in Europe and that Strasbourg would be the symbol city of this hope, they would have been sent to the psychiatrist. The European Union is the best example of conflict resolution in the history of the world. All the regions at war must study the way in which Europe was built.” Thus, this project is particularly dear to our hearts and we are honoured to contribute to the remembrance of his legacy.”

Tim Attwood, Foundation Secretary, John and Pat Hume Foundation states:

“The John and Pat Hume Foundation welcome this excellent opportunity to partner with the European Parliament Liaison Office UK and Ulster University to showcase John Hume’s work as a Member of the European Parliament and the fact that the mission of the European Union inspired his courageous journey to build peace and reconciliation in Ireland through dialogue, partnership and bridge-building.  

“Two days short of John Hume’s eighty seventh birthday and fifty years after Ireland officially became a member of the European Economic Community (EEC), it is our duty to keep faith with the Hume principles, keep his dream of peace and non-violence alive and inspire current and emerging courageous leaders for peaceful change, at home and in conflicts internationally, who will chart a better way forward and build a more just and prosperous future for all  our children.”

The exhibition features panels with highlights of Hume’s role in the peace process alongside a bronze bust, one of only five specially commissioned pieces created by Ballymena born sculptor, Liz O’Kane. The remaining busts are installed at the Irish embassies in Washington DC, London, the European Parliament in Strasbourg and Leinster House in Dublin. After the tour of Ulster University’s campuses this piece will take up residence in the Guildhall in December 2024. Alongside the exhibition is a creation by Dublin tapestry artist, Catherine O’Connor whose grandparents hail from Derry~Londonderry. The tapestry, commissioned by friends of John and Pat Hume shines a light on Pat and the strength of her relationship with John and her integral role in the peace process.

The exhibition is free and open to the public from Wednesday 17 January – Friday 29 March and is located on the ground floor lobby of the MU building, Derry~Londonderry campus.

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Ireland’s North West City Region showcased in the Irish Embassy, London

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On 4th December 2023 at the invitation of Ambassador of Ireland to Great Britain, Mr. Martin Fraser, an event was held in the Irish Embassy in London to showcase Ireland’s North West City Region as an innovative and attractive compelling destination to live, work, study, invest, explore and do business.

On 4th December 2023 at the invitation of Ambassador of Ireland to Great Britain, Mr. Martin Fraser, an event was held in the Irish Embassy in London to showcase Ireland’s North West City Region as an innovative and attractive compelling destination to live, work, study, invest, explore and do business. Ireland’s North West City Region is a collaborative initiative between Derry City and Strabane District Council and Donegal County Council. The event was also supported by North West Regional Development Group.

The objective of this event was to promote Ireland’s North West City Region in relation to trade and investment and to demonstrate the competitive advantages of doing business in the North West City Region. This was an opportunity to continue to develop a strong partnership between the North West City Region and the City of London and wider UK and to engage with the Irish diaspora in London, further expanding the region’s reach.

Cllr Martin Harley, Cathaoirleach of Donegal County Council was keen to showcase the city region to a London audience saying that “we are delighted to showcase our regional offer to important players in the London business and wider community today. The North West is ready for growth, and we have invested significant sums in infrastructure, networks and facilities to ensure we’re investor ready as a city region. The fact that so many high caliber businesses have now located in the region have invested here highlights the high quality of our investment proposition. On behalf of Donegal County Council, I would like to thank Ambassador Fraser for hosting our delegation at this wonderful event in the Irish Embassy.”

Cllr Patricia Logue, Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council highlighted that place and proximity to talent has played a huge role in company success across the North West City Region, stating “We pride ourselves in our people and the role our universities and colleges play in molding that talent. Combined with a superb quality of life, the North West City Region offers a work life balance that attracts and retains the best employees. With the Common Travel Area, an exceptional talent pool can be drawn across the region.  Living and working across two jurisdictions on a day-to-day basis. We have the right kind of infrastructure, logistics and proximity to London. This is a region of untapped potential. We are already providing important and valuable support to companies such as FinTrU who have grown and prospered in this region. We are ready to capitalise on our strengths to drive economic growth and foster innovation, for our mutual benefit. With our close proximity to London. And, and by sharing the only land border between the EU and UK. We are an ideal gateway location to both these markets”.

Chief Executive with Derry City and Strabane District Council John Kelpie said it was hugely important for the North West City Region to showcase its attributes and to engage directly with key stakeholders and influencers. “It is very important for us to strengthen our links with London and to do all we can to showcase out offerings to this audience. It’s an opportunity for us to develop strong international business links and build on the existing good work that is being done to develop our key industries, the emerging fintech cluster in our region and to collaborate on shared interests in innovation, education and climate action.”

Chief Executive of Donegal County Council, John McLaughlin stated that “Ireland’s North West City Region is an excellent location for investors as it straddles two jurisdictions which provides businesses, multi-nationals and entrepreneurs the benefits of having access to both the EU and UK markets. The North West City region has established strong political, economic, and cultural linkages with London and this event further strengthens these connections. “

The event included a lively panel discussion focused on Ireland’s North West City Region, a gateway to global growth moderated by Tip O’Neill Irish Diaspora Award 2023 recipient Caroline McLaughlin, Executive Director at Morgan Stanley, UK. Panelists included Denis Curran, Head of Regions, Property and Enterprise Development at the IDA and Darragh McCarthy, CEO at FinTrU.

The event is also a fitting way to mark the 25-year anniversary of the Good Friday agreement and to share success stories of how the region has evolved since from an economic development perspective.  It also highlighted the benefit to businesses of locating in this region which can provide seamless market access to both the EU and UK.

Leading blue chip and fast-growing businesses, along with public and private sector representatives and key influencers based in and around London attended the event as well as stakeholders from across the region to provide a holistic overview of the benefits of locating in Ireland’s North West City Region.

The North West City region has a varied talent pool including a workforce which is not just highly educated but innovative, creative and loyal with Centres of Excellence in Big Data & Analytics, Health & Life Sciences, Advanced Manufacturing and the Blue Economy.

Ireland’s North West City region has a proven track record in hosting international companies such as PGIM, TCS, Seagate, DuPont, Allstate, Optum, Zeus, FinTrU, Abbot and Terex Corporation. These companies are already reaping the benefits and gaining competitive advantages provided by operating in the North West City Region. Talent is also driving investment decisions and the North West City Region provides a unique location for businesses seeking competitive advantage.

The event was also supported by stakeholders including the IDA Ireland, Invest NI, Enterprise Ireland, Atlantic Technological University, Ulster University, Donegal ETB and the North West Regional College along with businesses operating in the region. The event provided a valuable platform for exchanging ideas, sharing insights, and building relationships on a cross-border basis.

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Over 30 Invest NI international staff welcomed to the North West

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Over 30 of Invest NI’s international staff travelled to the North West in January for a two-day visit programme to strengthen their knowledge about the North West’s investment proposition. 

Pictured (L-R) are Kelly-Marie Nolan, Regional Director France, Invest NI; Rosalind Young, Investment Manager, Derry City & Strabane District Council; Steve Harper, Executive Director of International Business, Invest NI; Professor Michaela Black, Professor of Artificial Intelligence, Ulster University; Des Gartland, North Western Regional Manager, Invest NI; Dearbhla O'Neill, FDI Business Development Director, Invest NI.
Pictured (L-R) are Kelly-Marie Nolan, Regional Director France, Invest NI; Rosalind Young, Investment Manager, Derry City & Strabane District Council; Steve Harper, Executive Director of International Business, Invest NI; Professor Michaela Black, Professor of Artificial Intelligence, Ulster University; Des Gartland, North Western Regional Manager, Invest NI; Dearbhla O’Neill, FDI Business Development Director, Invest NI.

The visit highlighted the region’s strengths in key sectors including financial and professional services and advanced manufacturing and engineering. The team had the opportunity to visit Ulster University’s Intelligent Systems Research Centre on the Magee campus, the Clinical Translational Research & Innovation Centre in Altnagelvin Hospital and to hear from companies who have already chosen the North West to grow their businesses like Vertiv and Terex. 

Steve Harper, Executive Director of International Business, said: “Each time our international team comes to Northern Ireland we include a visit to one of the regions. These visits give the team the opportunity to learn more about each region’s strengths as part of our commitment to regional development. 

“This visit to the North West will give the team the opportunity to develop a deeper understanding of the region’s investment proposition and support the team to foster meaningful connections with local stakeholders. The knowledge they will gain will better equip them to champion the region to potential investors and help facilitate potential trade partnerships. Whilst here, our team will share knowledge about what investors from different regions are looking for when searching for a location to invest. This information will help the Council fine tune its investment proposition; and colleges and universities shape the courses they offer to meet the skills investors are looking for. 

“We’re delighted some of our partners in the area, including the Council, the Londonderry Chamber and Ulster University, are involved in the programme, along with local businesses and recent investors, ensuring the team gets a well-rounded view of what the area has to offer.”  

The 32 international staff are based in markets including the US, Asia Pacific, Europe, and IMEA. 

Professor Michaela Black, Professor of Artificial Intelligence at Ulster University, said: “The focus of the Intelligent Systems Research Centre at Ulster University is the development and deployment of brain inspired AI. The Centre is recognised for its world class research capability and therefore pivotal in attracting international industry engagement, as well as Foreign Direct Investment, to the North West region. We’re delighted to have some of the Invest NI international team visit the Centre and it has been a pleasure to highlight the work being undertaken by staff and PhD researchers and promote the attractiveness of the area.”

Invest NI’s international staff heard from a panel of local stakeholders, on a deep dive into the North West’s FDI value proposition. The panel was chaired by Mark O’Connell, Founder and Executive Chairman of OCO Global, and included representatives from Derry City & Strabane District Council, Londonderry Chamber, Ulster University and the North West Regional College.  

Rosalind Young, Investment Manager at Derry City & Strabane District Council, said: “The Council is delighted to be able to showcase the North West City Region as a progressive and vibrant investment hub. We are a unique cross border region renowned for its thriving business environment, ease of doing business and access to incredible talent.” 

“Our vibrant digital and creative community, advanced manufacturing and engineering and professional and financial services sectors are expanding rapidly, with innovative new companies and leading international brands choosing this region to grow and prosper.

“It’s been great to work in partnership with Invest NI and other stakeholders to make the most of this visit.”

Anna Doherty, CEO of Londonderry Chamber, said: “The Derry-Londonderry region is well placed as an investment hub and our strategic setting offers a strong platform for investors seeking to establish firm foundations for future ventures. This has been an excellent opportunity for Invest NI staff from right across the globe to receive an insightful tour of all the North West region has to offer.”

During the visit the international teams also recieved an investor’s perspective, with a panel discussion of companies who have already invested in the region. Panel members included Aidan O’Kane, Director of IT Operations and Services at Allstate, John Harkin, Founder and CEO of Alchemy Technology Services, Gerry Kindlon, Director of Government Relations Europe at Seagate and Robbie O’Brien, Founder and Chief Evangelist of Meta Compliance.

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Spotlight interview – Jim Nash, Wild Atlantic Distillery

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Jim Nash is director and co-founder of the Wild Atlantic Distillery, a family-run craft distillery and visitor attraction making award-winning gin, vodka and whiskey. Originally from County Clare, Jim lived around the world before relocating to the North West in 2007. He and his brother-in-law, Brian Ash, opened the distillery in Aghyaran, County Tyrone, in 2020. After taking part in Derry City and Strabane District Council’s successful US trade mission last November, Wild Atlantic Distillery is currently working on plans to break into the US market.

How did you come up with the idea for the distillery?

We started off making gin in a garden shed. Brian is an engineer and my background is in hospitality and working with young people with learning disabilities. When we originally sat down in 2018, we had the eventual goal of making Irish whiskey, but decided to start with gin in a 25 litre still. After a year of making gin every week, tasting it every Friday and tweaking recipes, we had our Wild Atlantic Irish gin. The feedback was so positive that Brian and I started building our distillery and visitor experience on the other side of the house.

How does it feel to be part of the resurgence of Irish whiskey?

Irish whiskey used to be the premium whiskey in the world; at one time, the Watt’s Distillery in Derry was the biggest producer of Irish whiskey in the country. Only a few distilleries survived, and we almost lost our whiskey heritage. But now we’ve got 30 or 40 distilleries across the country, and a lot of them are small craft distilleries like us. There’s history, tradition and passion behind the Irish whiskey story, and we’re very proud to be a small part of that.

The distillery opened in February 2020; how did Covid impact the business?

On February 1 2020 we had 200 local people in for an open day. Everyone was very supportive and delighted to see a new business in the area, but we had to close six weeks later. We decided to start producing alcohol-based hand sanitiser to give to local health centres and hospitals free of charge, and to sell to local businesses. It was the hand sanitiser that kept the lights on and the business going until we got back to what we wanted to do, which was making spirits.

What have been your big wins as a business?

In 2021 our Wild Atlantic Irish gin won gold at the World Gin Awards for Best Northern Irish contemporary gin, and was shortlisted for best in the world. The same year we launched a new product, our Wild Atlantic Amalfi lemon flavoured vodka, which won two bronze at the International Wine and Spirit Competition in San Francisco. We also laid down our first whiskey casks in 2021. Our first release of small batch whiskey will be in the summer of 2024, which we’re very excited about. And after the Council’s US trade mission, I travelled over in April to meet the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board, who are interested in taking our vodkas into their market in 155 luxury stores.

Can you tell us a bit more about the US trade mission?

It was an amazing experience which opened up doors for us into the American market. We visited New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Boston, New York, we did five states in five days. It was hectic, with loads of meetings, but it was a great way to introduce our business. What we discovered went down really well was the fact that we’re a family business, we made all our own products, and they are good quality.

If we can get things over the line with the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board in the next three to four months, it will be our first entry into the States and a major step for us as a small business. That was all through the support we got from Derry City and Strabane District Council in particular. The Council’s Business Support and Investment teams have been exceptional, I couldn’t say enough about how supportive they’ve been.

What advice would you have for people considering a move to the North West?

I think it would be a very, very smart move. The supports and networking opportunities are here now that maybe weren’t here a long time ago. If you’ve got an idea and the desire to create a business in Ireland, you couldn’t ask for better than the North West. We have a great cross-border network between Donegal, Derry and Strabane.

I love this part of the world and the people here. On our first day opening, we had 200 local people come into our small distillery to have a look and to support us. I have two teenage daughters, who are very happy here too. And Derry is a magnificent city. We’re also a member of the LegenDerry Food group which has been great – I’ve lived in a lot of places, and the quality of produce in this region is first class.

What next for the Wild Atlantic Distillery?

In the next two to three years, we want to take our distillery to the next stage. Last year Crowdcube funding helped us increase our production, launch two new products and develop new markets. There are a couple of things in the pipeline that are very exciting -the goal is to take people on full time over the next 18 months into the distillery for production as we develop the business and create employment in the local area. Our distillery is also part of the NI Spirits Trail, where people can visit for a tour and get their ‘passports’ stamped.

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