Growth and transformation

Economic ties between the San Francisco Bay Area and Ireland

Economic ties between the San Francisco Bay Area and Ireland

Dr. Sean Randolph, the Senior Director of the Bay Area Council in San Francisco, recently visited Cork to promote his new report titled “Growth and Transformation: Economic Ties between the San Francisco Bay Area and Ireland”. This report underscored the strong relationship between our two regions, whilst also highlighting the potential for further collaboration and growth.

Cork Chamber, in collaboration with UCC, organised a roundtable event, providing Dr. Randolph the platform to present his findings and engage in discussions with local stakeholders in Cork.

The economic ties between the San Francisco Bay Area and Ireland have been steadily strengthened over the years. As the Bay Area’s trade and investment with Europe continue to expand, Ireland has emerged as a strategic partner, leveraging focused economic strategies, talent and innovation to attract Bay Area companies. Ireland has positioned itself as a European base for many Bay Area companies, showcasing a successful blend of business-friendly policies and skilled workforce.

The historical context of Irish immigration to San Francisco adds depth to this economic relationship. San Francisco has long been a favoured destination for Irish immigrants, further solidifying the cultural connections between the two regions. Notably, Cork shares a special bond with San Francisco as a sister city.

Bay Area companies have made significant investments in Cork, contributing to the region’s economic growth and development. Companies such as Apple, Ireland’s first major investor from the Bay Area and the country’s largest foreign investor, have established a strong presence in Cork. Other notable companies such as Cadence, NetApp, Gilead and BioMarin have also made their mark, further enriching the business landscape in Cork.

While the relationship between Ireland and the Bay Area is well established, there are opportunities for further collaboration. Initiatives such as bilateral R&D partnerships in both industry and academia, deeper engagement between Irish and Bay Area universities, science, technology sectors and investor communities, as well as increasing direct air service between the Bay Area and Ireland, hold huge potential for boosting economic cooperation and innovation.

Dr. Randolph’s report reflects the shared history and values between our two regions, whilst also paving the way for a future marked by innovation, collaboration and growth.

You can read Dr. Randolph’s report on https://www.bayareaeconomy.org/