Derry Chamber continues to champion the North West on the international stage, reinforcing economic ties and investment opportunities across the US and UK. Recent engagements in the United States and London have underscored the Chamber’s dedication to promoting the region’s business potential and fostering key transatlantic relationships.

Derry Chamber President Andrew Fleming visited the United States during St. Patrick’s Week, engaging with senior business leaders, policymakers, and members of the Irish-American community. Andrew participated in an FSB Roundtable Lunch and attended the InterTradeIreland Networking Event, where the Chamber fostered relationships with NI Chamber and Cork Chamber, setting the stage for a strong collaborative presence throughout the visit.

The Chamber President also attended a British Embassy evening reception, engaging with key policymakers and reinforcing UK-Ireland business relationships. The Washington Ireland Programme class launch attended by Andrew provided another valuable platform, strengthening connections between Ireland and the US.

Further engagements included an NI Bureau Breakfast Event and the American Chamber of Commerce Roundtable with deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly MLA. The Chamber also participated in a Leadership Forum and met with stakeholders at the British Embassy Business Breakfast, leveraging these opportunities to advocate for investment in the North West.

With further high-level interactions at events such as the Ireland Funds Gala, the Chamber maximised networking opportunities, ensuring that the North West remained firmly on the agenda for US investors and policymakers.

Andrew’s visit focused on strengthening economic connections, highlighting the North West’s innovation, and reinforcing the region’s attractiveness for investment. Speaking to this, Andrew said:

“We have a unique and remarkable opportunity to promote the positive transformation taking place the North West.

“From the City Region Deal to the expansion of our Magee Campus and broader regeneration efforts, the North West is an exciting place for business. Strengthening our ties with US investors and partners is crucial to sustaining our growth.”

The Chamber also played a key role in last year’s Ireland NW to Boston Go to Market Pathfinder II trade mission, where innovative tech firms from Derry, Strabane, and Donegal explored opportunities in the US market.

As part of a high-level delegation, Chamber representatives worked alongside business leaders, civic officials, and education partners to drive forward the North West’s economic agenda.

                 

In addition to transatlantic engagements, Derry Chamber CEO Anna Doherty had the honor of attending the first-ever St. Patrick’s Day reception at 10 Downing Street this week—a celebration of Irish business, culture, and diaspora connections.

The event brought together influential figures, including Secretary of State Hilary Benn MP and Northern Ireland Minister Fleur Anderson MP, alongside familiar faces such as broadcaster, Dermot O’Leary and Blu Hydrangea, winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK vs The World. This reception marked a significant step in strengthening Derry Chamber’s political and business ties, reinforcing the vital role of Northern Ireland’s business community on the global stage.

Speaking after her visit to Downing Street, Anna Doherty, Derry Chamber CEO, said:

“Through international advocacy and strategic partnerships, Derry Chamber continues to position the North West as a dynamic and attractive hub for business, helping to ensure long-term economic growth and success for our region.”