By Business & Finance 
Michael Lohan, CEO, IDA Ireland, writes about a century of enduring friendship and economic partnership between Ireland and the United States.
This article was originally published in the Ireland INC US 250 Index 2024 Special Report. To read the latest issue, click here.
For decades, Ireland and the United States have built a strong and enduring relationship that binds our nations culturally, politically, and economically. Our connection has evolved beyond traditional diplomacy into a mature and trusted partnership founded on friendship and shared values. The enduring strength of US-Ireland relations is frequently acknowledged as a cornerstone of Ireland’s FDI sector, with the US contributing around 60% of overall FDI into Ireland each year.
IDA Ireland has had a presence in the US for more than 40 years and we maintain a strong footprint across North America, with our network of nine office locations playing a pivotal role in supporting the strategically important relationship between Ireland and the US. By forging links with leaders of world-class American companies already based in Ireland and nurturing new relationships with prospective investors seeking opportunities for growth and expansion, our team in the US work alongside Ireland-based colleagues to attract investment from across the US into every region of Ireland.
Today, over 760 US companies have 970 operations in Ireland, employing c210,000 people, driving industry across various sectors and strengthening the bond between our two countries. American companies are drawn to Ireland’s predictability, stability, ease of doing business, and wealth of accessible top talent. Our geographical position as a gateway to the extensive European marketplace further enhances our appeal. Once established here, investors recognise the breadth of opportunity Ireland has to offer with many investing further in their Irish operations, encouraged by our rich research and innovation ecosystem, world-class indigenous businesses, entrepreneurial spirit, and robust supply chain.
Whilst US businesses significantly contribute to the Irish economy, the symbiotic relationship between our two countries is further reinforced by the growing level of Irish investment into the US. Ireland is now ranked as the 7th largest investor in the United States, with Irish companies continuing to expand their footprint and employing 100,000 people across all fifty states. The mutual confidence in each other as locations in which to invest and grow, underscores the strength of our trusted and historic relationship.
As we mark a century of diplomacy between our nations, it is timely to reflect on our shared past and look forward to a future where our relationship continues to flourish. In an ever-evolving global landscape characterised by emerging technologies, geopolitical changes, and an unprecedented operating pace, the bond between Ireland and the US remains resilient and adaptable. I am confident this enduring partnership will continue to thrive, meeting new challenges as they arise and seizing opportunities as they emerge in the years to come.
