Strengthening Ties: GEC Enhances Ireland-UK Startup Network in the Midst of EU Discussions

Guinness Enterprise Centre (GEC) Partners with UK Innovation Hubs to Support Irish Startups

The Dublin-based Guinness Enterprise Centre (GEC) has recently announced a strategic partnership with various innovation hubs across the UK. The primary goal of this partnership is to facilitate the entry and establishment of Irish startups in the UK market.

This initiative comes at a crucial time, amid discussions about the UK’s future relationship with the EU. UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham’s recent statement suggesting the consideration of rejoining the bloc has sparked renewed interest in cross-border collaborations.

During a visit to Dublin in November 2025, Burnham played a key role in establishing the GEC’s partnership with Manchester. This partnership aims to provide Irish startups with access to local networks, workspace, universities, and practical market-entry support in different regions of the UK.

The collaboration between GEC and UK-based innovation hubs is designed to be mutually beneficial. UK startups working with partner hubs will have the opportunity to leverage the GEC’s resources when expanding into Ireland, thereby gaining access to a well-established business and innovation network.

Niamh Collins, Centre Director at Guinness Enterprise Centre, emphasized the significance of these partnerships in supporting startups as they scale into new markets. By partnering with established hubs, startups can overcome initial barriers and establish a solid foundation for growth.

Irish Startups Expanding Internationally

Several Irish startups have already secured funding to support their international expansion efforts, aligning with the objectives of the GEC’s partnership initiative. Companies like CameraMatics and Redfaire have raised significant capital to fuel their growth in European and US markets.

One notable example is HR Duo, an Irish HRTech company that raised funds to strengthen its presence in the UK market. With a substantial portion of its sales pipeline concentrated in Great Britain, HR Duo is poised for accelerated growth in the region.

Overall, Irish startups have attracted approximately €350.4 million in funding by August 2026, reflecting the growing interest in scaling beyond domestic boundaries in sectors like AI, FinTech, BioTech, and more.

Supporting Innovation and Growth

The British Ambassador to Ireland, Kara Owen, highlighted the importance of providing practical support to innovative businesses expanding into new markets. These partnerships aim to facilitate market access, attract investments, and create employment opportunities on both sides of the Irish Sea.

Founded in 2000, the GEC has been instrumental in supporting startups through workspace provisions, business support services, and access to national and international networks. With a focus on practical support for early-stage companies, the GEC aims to address barriers faced by startups entering new markets.

The GEC’s network includes partnerships with innovation hubs like SISTER, Central Tech Liverpool, and CodeBase, with plans to expand to 20 hubs by the end of 2027. This broad network will offer Irish startups a diverse range of support across different regions in the UK.

Embracing Regional Innovation Ecosystems

Recognizing the significance of regional innovation ecosystems, the GEC’s approach goes beyond major business centers like London. Partnerships with hubs in Manchester and Liverpool have already been established, with a focus on supporting startups through local connections and resources.

Over its 25-year history, the GEC has supported over 1,500 startups, with a significant portion of revenue coming from exports. International expansion remains a key focus for the GEC, aligning with the growth ambitions of founders and entrepreneurs.