Ireland launches ambitious Business Events 2030 Strategy.
The Irish Government has unveiled a new Business Events 2030 strategy aimed at achieving 8% annual revenue growth in high-value business tourism sector.
The Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment Peter Burke TD today (29 April) set out Ireland’s strategy to become a premier global destination for conferences, corporate meetings, and business tourism.
“Business Events 2030 represents a significant step forward in our commitment to fostering economic growth through the promotion of Ireland as a fantastic location for business travel”
The business events sector already contributes more than €1bn to Ireland’s economy annually, along with €290m to the Exchequer, while supporting approximately 22,000 jobs nationwide.
Economic impact and growth targets
Business Events 2030 aims to drive an ambitious 8% average annual revenue growth rate through to 2030.
“Business Events 2030 represents a significant step forward in our commitment to fostering economic growth through the promotion of Ireland as a fantastic location for business travel,” said Minister Burke.
“This strategy refocuses our policy, placing more emphasis on economic targets, boosting both our indigenous tourism SMEs and our economy and highlights Ireland’s eco-friendly credentials when attracting business.”
Collaborative approach to tourism development
The strategy is the result of extensive collaboration between key stakeholders including the Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, Fáilte Ireland, Tourism Ireland, and industry leaders.
Other contributors include public bodies such as IDA Ireland, Enterprise Ireland, Universities of Ireland and the Institute of Public Health.
The initiative supports the Irish Government’s broader tourism growth objectives outlined in the Programme for Government 2025 – Securing Ireland’s Future, which identifies business events as a priority area for developing Ireland’s tourism offering and increasing visitor numbers.
Paul Kelly, chief executive of Fáilte Ireland, emphasised the broader benefits of the initiative “This strategy is a testament to our dedication to making Ireland a premier destination for business events,” Kelly explained.
“By focusing on innovation and sustainability, we are not only increasing revenue and employment in the tourism sector but also contributing to the broader industrial, scientific, medical, social, environmental and educational development in Ireland.”
Year-round tourism benefits
A key advantage of business tourism is its tendency to occur midweek and outside peak tourist seasons, helping to create a more sustainable year-round industry.
“Business events travel is high value and by its nature often occurs midweek and outside of peak season, thereby aligning with ambitions to strengthen year-round tourism,” noted Alice Mansergh, chief executive of Tourism Ireland.
“Business Events 2030 will play a crucial role in positioning Ireland as a leader in the global Business Events market. Our collaborative efforts will ensure we attract high value business that brings overseas visitors and long-term benefits for the economy and communities.”
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