North West leaders have returned from a major US trade mission, promoting the region’s innovation, skills and investment potential across Boston and Philadelphia.

The North West City Region has completed a high-level trade and investment mission to Boston and Philadelphia, showcasing the region’s growing economic strengths and deepening transatlantic partnerships.

Running from 10-14th November, the mission brought together senior representatives from Derry City and Strabane District Council, Donegal County Council, Ulster University, Atlantic Technological University, Alpha Innovation, the Londonderry and Letterkenny Chambers of Commerce, Údarás na Gaeltachta, and a cohort of local businesses through the Lead2Grow programme. Together, the delegation promoted the North West as a dynamic, connected cross-border economy with fast-growing capabilities in advanced manufacturing, digital innovation, and life sciences.

Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald MLA and Minister Charlie McConalogue TD joined the delegation, reflecting strong political and business alignment behind the region’s international ambitions. Minister Archibald delivered keynote remarks at signature events throughout the mission, highlighting Northern Ireland’s competitiveness, dual-market access, and highly skilled workforce. With almost 300 US-owned firms employing 32,000 people across Northern Ireland including major North West employers Allstate and Seagate she positioned the region as a strategic, reliable location for investment, trade, and reinvestment.

Londonderry and Letterkenny Chamber of Commerce had a strategic engagement with the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce, one of the United States’ most influential business networks. Discussions focused on collaboration opportunities across life sciences, AI and entrepreneurship where the North West is emerging as a strong transatlantic gateway for business.

Throughout the week, the delegation demonstrated how ongoing investment in infrastructure, education, and skills continues to strengthen the region’s international offer and create a robust platform for future trade and research partnerships, in both directions.

The takeaway:

This trade mission highlights a globally connected, investment-ready North West City Region building lasting relationships that drive transatlantic trade, innovation, skills and sustainable economic growth.