Dublin Belfast Economic Corridor Is Launched
Political and economic leaders across Ireland join forces to become future powerhouse of European business
The inaugural Dublin Belfast Economic Corridor (DBEC) flagship event took place on Thursday 27 February 2025 at the International Convention Centre (ICC) in Belfast, marking a major milestone in the future of cross-border economic collaboration.
Over 500 leaders from the public, private and third sectors gathered to explore the vast potential of the 100-mile corridor between Dublin and Belfast and to discuss the necessary steps to transform it into a leading European economic powerhouse.
The event, which brought together key representatives from both sides of the border, demonstrated a united commitment to advancing the Dublin Belfast Economic Corridor as a critical driver of sustainable growth, job creation and global competitiveness for the island of Ireland.
Opening remarks were delivered by Northern Ireland’s First Minister, Michelle O’Neill, and Deputy First Minister, Emma Little-Pengelly, who said the economic potential of DBEC is limitless.
The First Minister said: “The all-island economy is already thriving, and I believe it presents vast unrealised potential."
This corridor represents an unparalleled opportunity to drive sustainable growth, harness innovation and build a resilient economy – one that brings about inclusive prosperity for our communities and real benefits for people.
The Deputy First Minister said: “The Dublin Belfast Economic Corridor presents an opportunity to drive economic growth and prosperity. By working together, we can unlock its full potential and create a world-class, thriving, competitive and sustainable corridor that benefits everyone."
A special video address by Taoiseach Micheál Martin T.D., who was unable to attend in person, was shared at the conference. In it, he underscored the transformative power of collaboration and the DBEC’s potential to unlock economic opportunities, enhance cross-border trade and attract significant investment.
“The future of the Dublin Belfast Economic Corridor region is bright, thanks in no small part to the dynamic collaborative approach of the eight local authorities along its route, supported by two leading universities,” the Taoiseach said.
Our Shared Island Initiative is founded on partnership, to deliver for people across the whole island. That work is underway, with an ambitious agenda backed by a further €1 billion in funding to 2035.
“The last few years have shown what is possible. This is only the beginning of what we will achieve, in co-operation with Dublin Belfast Economic Corridor members, to build understanding, opportunity and prosperity for all on our shared island.”
The conference showcased in-depth discussions on a range of key topics, including the critical need for investment in infrastructure, skills development and innovation.
Panellists agreed that government investment was essential for DBEC to reach its full potential. By securing such funding, the region would be well-positioned to drive future growth, strengthen its global economic standing and create high-quality jobs along the corridor.
Leaders from both sides of the border voiced their support for DBEC’s ambitious vision, which includes developing a dynamic and high-performing economy, fostering research and development, as well as enhancing competitiveness.
Speakers included John Walsh, Chief Executive, Belfast City Council; Richard Shakespeare, Chief Executive, Dublin City Council; Kieran Donoghue, Chief Executive, Invest NI; Michael Lohan, Chief Executive, IDA Ireland; Russell Smyth, Head of Sustainable Futures, KPMG in Ireland; Emma Redmond, Site Lead, OpenAI Ireland and Joe O’Neill, Chief Executive, Belfast Harbour, along with other senior business and political figures.
Mayor Brian McDonagh and Councillor Pete Byrne, Co-Chairs of the DBEC Political Advisory Group, highlighted the progress made so far and the exciting opportunities that lie ahead.
“The level of collaboration demonstrated at today’s event has been truly inspiring,” they said. “We are building the foundation for a new era of cross-border economic cooperation that will benefit businesses and communities across the entire region."
The Dublin Belfast Economic Corridor is testament to what can be achieved when we work together.
As the first major event to showcase DBEC’s vision, the conference has cemented the corridor’s importance as a critical driver of Ireland’s economic future and a gateway to global growth.
Political leaders from both governments have reiterated their commitment to supporting the initiative, recognising its potential to generate economic growth, foster innovation and create new opportunities for both businesses and individuals.
DBEC is already gaining international attention as a model for cross-border collaboration, with this event setting the stage for future initiatives that will unlock its full economic potential.
With continued political support and the right investment, the Dublin Belfast Economic Corridor is poised to become a leading economic zone in Europe – and an economic powerhouse that benefits not only Ireland, but the global economy as well.
The DBEC Summit was supported by a number of strategic partners, including KPMG, Translink, Iarnród Éireann, Invest NI, IDA Ireland, InterTradeIreland, SONI, EirGrid, Mott MacDonald, Ulster University and Dublin City University.
