Louth hosts launch of new industry advisory group for Dublin Belfast Economic Corridor

Dundalk took the spotlight this week as industry leaders from across the island gathered in the town for the launch of a new advisory panel aimed at driving growth along the Dublin–Belfast Economic Corridor.

DBEC is the cross-border partnership that brings together eight local authorities as well as universities and other stakeholders to foster thriving and sustainable economic collaboration in the region. The corridor encompasses the 100 miles between Dublin and Belfast and is a key location for cross-border trade. 

The panel, which met for the first time on Monday in Dundalk, is a key pillar of DBEC’s strategy to ensure effective collaboration between DBEC and private industry. 

The panel will work with DBEC to ensure that the insights of private sector businesses in the region are represented, and that business needs can be met to continue economic growth, leverage strategic opportunities and encourage further investment.

Speaking at the launch of the Industry Advisory Panel was Panel Chair David Conway, Chief Executive Officer of Louth County Council, who said: “DBEC is delighted to announce this new advisory panel which brings together leading private industry representatives. DBEC is committed to developing and showcasing all that this diverse region has to offer to businesses seeking to invest and grow, and the perspectives and expertise of our leading companies is key to that commitment.

“DBEC’s role is to ensure that not only the opportunities in the region are highlighted, but any challenges that may be facing businesses – whether that is skills and labour gaps, or infrastructure needs – so that we can advocate on behalf of the corridor to ensure these challenges are addressed. We look forward to working closely with the Industry Advisory Panel to create a world class economic region.”

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The panel represents the full spectrum of businesses operating across the region — from start-ups and SMEs to large multinationals — and includes sectoral representation spanning transport, energy, offshore technology, construction, professional and financial services, food manufacturing, agriculture, broadband connectivity, and life and health sciences. It will provide a forum for industry experts to engage with DBEC, helping to shape its strategic direction and inform future outcomes.

The first meeting of the Industry Advisory Panel focused on building connections between each of the members, identifying industry priorities and agreeing a programme of work for the coming months, with the next meeting scheduled to take place in Belfast in early 2026.