Ulster University Welcomes US Investment Delegation To NI

The Ulster University has welcomed U.S. Special Envoy to Northern Ireland for Economic Affairs, Joseph P. Kennedy, III, a delegation of some of the most innovative, influential and successful senior U.S. business leaders on their official visit to Northern Ireland.

An event to promote Northern Ireland as a compelling investment proposition, was held in the very same atrium where President Joseph R. Biden delivered his key address just six months ago, when he pledged to organise this business delegation to Northern Ireland.

Speaking at the event, Vice-Chancellor of Ulster University, Professor Paul Bartholomew, said: "It was only a few short months ago when I stood in this very atrium and had the honour of welcoming President Joseph R. Biden to this campus and indeed to NI. As I said in my address then – our new campus reflects the hope and promise of the Belfast Good Friday Agreement. It brings 16,000 students and staff from across NI, and indeed the world, to research and study together the subjects that will shape our tomorrow and drive our prosperity. This new campus stands as a beacon for aspiration, as an engine of innovation and as a symbol of what has been achieved.

"But we cannot, and we will not, stand still. That is why it is of such import to welcome U.S and local business leaders here today. There is so much more to do, and so much more of our potential to realise – socially, culturally and economically.

"We aspire to inspire, to work together with each other, with businesses and political leaders, with wider communities – anyone who shares our vision of a brighter future. In this 25th anniversary year of the Belfast Good Friday Agreement, Ulster University is renewing our commitment to this place and its people, not only through research and innovation, but also through our transformational leadership programme, 25@25, that is developing the change-makers and leaders of tomorrow."

The Head of Northern Ireland Civil Service, Jayne Brady commented: "Today's event at Ulster University enabled this Senior Business delegation to get a real understanding of why NI is a compelling proposition for investment. Our talented, educated and innovative workforce is world class and delivering locally made solutions to global problems, particularly in our leading-edge sectors such as digital, software, cyber and fintech; life and health sciences and net zero technologies…as well as our renowned creative industries. Our world-leading R&D in these areas, flows from our pioneering Universities, which alongside our Further and Higher Education institutions ensure that NI has a skills base that is second to none.

"The very best of what this place has to offer was showcased and it was a truly collaborative effort between academia, business and government."