What’s Ahead in 2026: Key Engagements, Delegations and Opportunities

Trade and investment between Canada and Ireland continue to deepen, mature and diversify — and Alberta is playing an increasingly important role in that relationship. As global markets evolve and companies seek resilient, innovation-driven partners, the Alberta–Ireland connection is gaining momentum across sectors including energy, technology, life sciences, agri-food, aerospace and advanced manufacturing.

In early 2026, that momentum will be underscored by a series of high-profile engagements, inbound and outbound delegations, and new opportunities for businesses on both sides of the Atlantic.

Beyond Barriers: A data-driven case for deeper engagement

In February, the Ambassador of Ireland to Canada and the Consul General of Ireland will be in Alberta to mark the launch of Beyond Barriers: Deepening Canada–Ireland Trade and Investment. Commissioned by Team Ireland in Canada and prepared by the Conference Board of Canada, the report offers a comprehensive, data-driven assessment of the Canada–Ireland economic relationship.

The findings confirm the scale and maturity of the partnership. Ireland now ranks as Canada’s 10th largest investor, with inward investment exceeding $14 billion. The level of commercial integration is striking: eight of Canada’s top ten companies, four of the six largest Canadian banks, and four of the five leading Canadian software firms operate in Ireland, leveraging tariff-free access to the EU single market.

The report reinforces Ireland’s role as a strategic gateway for Canadian companies expanding into Europe — and highlights why Canada, and Alberta in particular, remains an attractive destination for Irish investment.

To help translate these insights into action, the Ireland–Alberta Trade Association has published a practical Alberta-focused review of the report, The Business Case for Alberta–Ireland Trade and Investment Growth, outlining concrete opportunities for Alberta and Ireland-based companies, investors and sector leaders.

Ireland’s St. Patrick’s Day programme brings Ministerial engagement to Western Canada

As part of the Government of Ireland’s global St. Patrick’s Day programme, Irish Minister Timmy Dooley — Minister of State at the Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment with responsibility for Fisheries, and at the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine with responsibility for the Marine — will visit Western Canada in March.

With engagements planned in Edmonton, Calgary and Vancouver, the visit reflects Ireland’s commitment to strengthening trade and economic ties, deepening international partnerships, and engaging meaningfully with its global diaspora in key markets.

IATA looks forward to welcoming Minister Dooley and supporting engagements that advance Alberta–Ireland collaboration.

St. Patrick’s Day Business & Networking Evening in Calgary

On March 11, IATA will host its inaugural St. Patrick’s Day Business & Networking Evening in Calgary. The event will bring together members, partners and friends for an engaging evening of business networking, conversation, music and celebration.

Designed to strengthen relationships and create new connections in a relaxed, informal setting, the evening reflects IATA’s role as a connector within the Alberta–Ireland business community. Details on venue and tickets will be shared shortly, with strong interest expected.

Welcoming Ireland’s first coordinated business delegation to Alberta

In May 2026, IATA — in collaboration with the Dublin Chamber — will welcome the first coordinated cross-sector Irish business delegation to Alberta. Taking place May 4–8, this milestone delegation will include Irish companies actively exploring market entry, partnerships and expansion opportunities in Alberta.

Dublin Chamber will lead engagement and preparation with participating Irish companies, while IATA will design and deliver the Alberta-based programme. Engagement opportunities will be prioritized for IATA members, ensuring a focused agenda aligned with Alberta’s priority sectors.

The programme will include market briefings, structured meetings and site visits, providing Irish companies with practical insight into Alberta’s business environment, while offering Alberta companies early-stage access to potential partners and collaborators.

A limited number of sponsorship opportunities will also be available for organizations seeking deeper visibility and engagement with the delegation.

Looking ahead: Life sciences and MedTech mission to Ireland

IATA is also planning an outbound mission to Galway, Ireland in September 2026 for Alberta-based companies operating in life sciences, medical technology and health innovation. The programme is expected to align with Medical Technology Ireland, Europe’s second-largest medtech conference, and will include ecosystem engagement, market briefings and curated connections.

Further details will be shared in the coming months.

Be part of the Alberta–Ireland business community

IATA membership provides access to a dynamic business community focused on strengthening trade, investment and collaboration between Alberta and Ireland. Members benefit from access to networks, events, briefings, trade missions and engagement opportunities throughout the year.

As activity between Alberta and Ireland continues to accelerate, IATA remains committed to supporting companies, investors and partners as they explore, connect and grow across both regions.

Explore membership options and sign up here: https://www.irelandalbertatrade.com/members

If you’d like to learn more about upcoming 2026 initiatives, trade missions or partnership opportunities with the Ireland–Alberta Trade Association, we’d be delighted to hear from you. Please email president@irelandalbertatrade.com.

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