Tuesday, 15 September 2026
Donegal and the wider North West are well positioned to capitalise on growing opportunities in the global Blue Economy, according to speakers at the Build the Blue Economy: Aquatech and Engineering Breakfast Workshop held in Letterkenny on 9 September.
The event, organised by Donegal County Council under the Donegal Blue Economy Working Group, brought together industry leaders, businesses and stakeholders to explore opportunities in aquaculture, marine engineering and innovation. Discussions highlighted the region's strong marine expertise, manufacturing capability and export track record, with local companies already supplying international markets including Norway, Chile and Canada.
Speakers also emphasised the importance of collaboration between industry, education and government to drive future growth, with initiatives such as the planned Ocean Innovation Centre at ATU Killybegs identified as key to supporting innovation, research and skills development. The workshop reinforced Donegal's ambition to strengthen its reputation as a leading hub for Aquatech, marine engineering and blue economy innovation.
