Donegal's Blue Economy is an important driver of economic development, building on established sectors such as fisheries and marine tourism while supporting growth in emerging industries including aquaculture, marine engineering, ocean energy, biotechnology and renewable energy.
With over 1,100km of coastline and a strong maritime heritage, Donegal is uniquely positioned to drive innovation, investment, and sustainable growth in marine industries.
Why Donegal?
Donegal is emerging as a leading location for Blue Economy innovation, investment, and enterprise development.
The County Donegal Blue Economy Working Group (BEWG) has been established as an interagency group to align and coordinate the efforts of partner agencies in Donegal to harness the economic potential of marine resources in a sustainable way. The objective of the Donegal BEWG is to advance the development of Donegal's Blue Economy with a view to contributing to the growth and wellbeing both locally, regionally and nationally. The Donegal BEWG acts as a forum to foster collaboration, promote sustainable growth, and create a strong marine-based economy that is resilient, innovative, and inclusive.
• Facilitate Cross-Sector Collaboration
• Promote Sustainable Development
• Drive Economic Growth
• Leverage Innovation and Research
• Support Education and Skills Development
• Enhance Regional Competitiveness
Working collaboratively to develop the blue economy in Donegal and the wider North West region.
The blue bioeconomy aims to create a circular bioeconomy that minimises waste and maximises the utilisation of natural marine resources to produce products and services. Potential areas of innovation could be in the food, pharmaceutical and industrial sectors. Bord Iascaigh Mhara (BIM), Ireland’s Seafood Development Agency, in partnership with Donegal County Council, launched a new report assessing the potential of Ireland’s blue bioeconomy.
The Killybegs Marine Cluster is an industry-led network that supports businesses operating across the Blue Economy. Established in 2021 as part of Enterprise Ireland's National Clustering Programme, it builds on Killybegs' position as one of Europe's leading commercial fishing ports, fostering collaboration, innovation and sustainable growth within the marine sector. As Ireland's only dedicated marine cluster, it supports the continued growth of Killybegs as a nationally significant centre for the Blue Economy.
