Enterprise Ireland recently held its inaugural Ones to Watch workshop and networking event in London for owners of innovative Irish companies doing business in the UK. The event coincided with President Higgins’ historic visit to the United Kingdom and was hosted by the Embassy of Ireland, London. The event aimed to support Irish High Potential Start-Up (HPSU) companies to accelerate their sales growth and consolidate relationships in the UK market.

The Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Eamon Gilmore, T.D., who was representing the Irish Government throughout the State visit, also addressed the event.

40 Irish companies took part in the workshop, representing the next wave of young innovative Irish businesses supported by Enterprise Ireland. The networking event helped these companies to carve out new business relationships and opportunities in the UK. The event was also attended by 60 key UK customers and partners including Facebook, Telefonica, Techstars, Vodafone, Marriott Group and The British Fashion Council, along with strategic UK experts across a range of disciplines and leading British investment institutions.

Speaking at the event, Julie Sinnamon, CEO Enterprise Ireland, said: ‘Today is all about helping these young Irish companies to increase their profile and grow their sales in the UK market. 2013 was a record year for start-ups in Ireland with over 100 supported by Enterprise Ireland through strategic business advice and investment funding. Today’s event will provide practical assistance on the development and implementation of a UK market entry strategy. It provides a crucial first step for Enterprise Ireland clients planning their approach to the UK market’.