Panel
Discussions
Discussion Panel
Ireland’s Path to Leadership: Competing in the Digital and AI Economy
Ireland plays a crucial role as a digital regulatory hub within the EU, bolstered by the significant US multinational presence here. As a result, there is a significant opportunity for Ireland to lead in the areas of A.I., cyber, digital and data. However, in order to realise this ambition, there must be a continued focus on driving innovation and the swift adoption of new technologies.
In a recent AmCham FDI Insights Survey 40% of respondents said that A.I. and emerging technologies were the biggest business opportunity for firms in Ireland in the next 5 years.
In that same survey 65% of respondents said they plan to increase investment into A.I., Automation or Data Analytics in their business in the next 12-months. 60% said they planned to invest in digital transformation or technology upgrades.
This panel will explore the areas in which Ireland can further leverage its digital expertise and ensure it is best placed to grasp the opportunities offered by emerging technologies.
Fireside Chat
AmCham’s priorities in 2026 and the Impact of the Transatlantic Relationship
This in-depth discussion with AmCham 2026 President Mark Cockerill, will explore his key priorities during his AmCham Presidency, including how we can ensure Ireland is well positioned as a global leader in A.I. and how we can continue attracting research talent to drive innovation.
It will also examine the AmCham’s key asks to support the future of the transatlantic relationship going into 2026 with key insights on Ireland's evolving business environment and the strength of the transatlantic partnership.
As 2026 marks 250 years since the US Declaration of Independence, this discussion will reflect on the enduring strength of the US-Ireland business relationship, which has resulted in US companies employing more than 245,000 people in Ireland, and Ireland being the 5th largest investor in the US, employing more than 200,000 people across all 50 states.
Fireside Chat
Ireland’s EU Presidency: Shaping Europe’s Competitiveness for the Future
In 2026 Ireland will again hold the Presidency of the Council of the EU for a period of 6-months. It is the first time Ireland has held the role since 2013, and will mark its eighth time in the role.
In the current geopolitical climate it is more important than ever that the EU remains a competitive environment for business and reduce the administrative burden on business.
In AmCham’s most recent FDI insights survey, 79% of respondents said it is extremely important for the EU to prioritise regulatory simplification and the reduction of administrative burdens on business.
When asked what Ireland's key priorities should be during its 2026 Presidency of the Council of the European Union, 40% of respondents said advancing EU competitiveness, productivity, and innovation policy. While 22% said pursuing regulatory simplification and reducing the administrative burden on businesses should be a priority.
In this fireside, our speakers will provide insights into the key considerations and factors that will impact Ireland’s 2026 Presidency.
Discussion Panel
Connecting Research, Development and Innovation: Driving Ireland’s Industry and Technology Eco-system
Ireland’s strong multinational presence, dynamic industry clusters and highly skilled talent base form the basis of a thriving world-class research ecosystem that contributes to Ireland’s competitiveness on the global stage.
This panel will look at the long-term strategies Ireland can implement to further the development of its robust RD&I ecosystem and remain a destination of choice for FDI.
In AmCham’s most recent FDI insights survey, 100% of respondents said the enhancement of Ireland's R&D infrastructure is important to increasing Ireland's competitiveness and enabling innovation and collaboration between research and industry.
The enhancement of digital and AI test environments was ranked as the area of R&D infrastructure Ireland should prioritise to strengthen its innovation ecosystem over the next 5 years, with 45% of respondents ranking in as a priority.
Discussion Panel
Powering Competitiveness: Delivering Ireland’s Energy and Infrastructure for the Next Generation
Ensuring Ireland has the infrastructure in place to cater for the needs of both business and people is paramount to supporting sustained inward investment.
This panel discussion will look at the necessary short-term and long-term infrastructure solutions to ensure Ireland has the capacity to support business and population growth into the future. This includes the delivery of key road projects, water and energy infrastructure, and housing.
Huge opportunity also exists for Ireland in regard to the generation of renewable energy. This panel will examine the necessary steps to deliver on Ireland’s ambitions to be energy self-sufficient and subsequently an exporter of renewable energy, and explore how this can positively impact business.
Discussion Panel
Powering Transatlantic Growth: Ireland’s Global Investment Future
AmCham’s most recent FDI Insights survey highlighted Ireland’s position as a top location for business, with 4 in 5 respondents saying their global headquarters have a positive view of Ireland as an investment or growth location.
According to figures from IDA Ireland, 2025 was a record year for Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) with a total of 323 investment, representing a 38% increase year-on-year. As such Ireland remains a destination of choice for inward investment.
This panel discussion will explore the key trends shaping the transatlantic relationship and future opportunities to grow this investment with key insights from senior business leaders expanding their operations across the Atlantic as well as the stakeholders supporting this growth.
