Digital Irish: Tech Week spreading Irish innovation

Ireland has long been known as the ‘land of saints and scholars’ – a reflection that shows how ingrained innovation and creativity are in our cultural tradition.

From historical figures like Robert Boyle, the father of modern chemistry, to Dorothy Price, who helped eradicate childhood TB in Ireland, Ireland has been at the forefront of technological and scientific advancements. Our history of learning and innovation continues to this day, with Ireland seen as a global talent hub for the arts, science, and technology.

From our shores and beyond, Irish innovators have travelled across the world to bring transformative ideas and technology to new communities, becoming leaders in health tech, agri-tech and climate action and adaptation, further cementing Ireland’s role as a leading global innovator.

Digital Irish, a New York-based Irish organisation, continues this tradition abroad, supporting new Irish start-ups as they break into global markets. With branches in London, Chicago, Sydney, and other key international cities, Digital Irish is dedicated to promoting Irish innovation and innovators globally, with a view to making impactful business connections across the Irish diaspora.

Digital Irish has carved a space in the saturated New York City market, supporting Irish start-ups, companies, and talent to thrive and secure themselves in the economic capital of the world.

In doing so, Digital Irish created Irish Tech Week - the third edition of which was held in October 2025. The week covered a range of topics, from founder journeys to AI innovation, and from venture capital to marketing.

No stone was left unturned as new Irish companies were introduced to best practices on how to emerge in the US market. The energy, collaboration, and ambition on display at Digital Irish Tech Week showed just how strong the bridge between Ireland and the US has become.

We sat down with Digital Irish to discuss the impact of their New York Tech Week and how Ireland can further incubate and spread innovation globally.

Q: With all the tech events in New York, what made Digital Irish want to create a uniquely Irish event in the tech sector?

“New York is full of incredible tech gatherings - but none that celebrate the Irish founders, investors, and innovators building globally from Ireland and the US. Digital Irish was founded to bridge that gap. We wanted to create a space that feels both global and familiar - where Irish founders could find their tribe, their network, and their next opportunity in one room.”

Q: What makes this event distinct from other tech or networking events happening in New York or across the US?

“The authenticity and reciprocity. There is a warmth and openness that define Irish networking - people genuinely want to help one another. It is not just business cards and panels; it's founders swapping lessons, investors mentoring over coffee, and friendships forming that last well beyond the week.”

Q: Why is the US market such an essential step for Irish founders?

“The scale, plain and simple. The US offers access to customers, capital, and credibility that can fast-track a start-up’s growth. For many Irish founders, success in the US is the difference between being a local player and a global one.”

Q: What trends are you seeing among Irish start-ups looking to enter or scale in the US?

“Irish founders are getting strategic - they are coming to the US earlier, raising capital here, and building with a North American customer in mind from day one. We are also seeing a lot more ambition around AI, fintech, and sustainability - areas where Ireland has real expertise and credibility.”

Q: What strengths or unique qualities do Irish companies bring to the US ecosystem? What do you think distinguishes the “Irish approach” to entrepreneurship or innovation?

“Irish founders are adaptable, collaborative, and deeply relationship-driven. We tend to lead with curiosity and humility, which builds trust quickly - and that is a real asset in a market like the US.

Irish founders combine creativity with grit. We are great storytellers - but we are also doers. There is a resilience that comes from being from a small country; we are used to thinking globally, collaborating smartly, and making every opportunity count.”

Q: How does the Irish start-up community in the US support one another?

“The community here is remarkable - from introductions and mentorship to investor connections, there is a real “pull each other up” mentality. Organisations like Digital Irish have become a bridge, connecting founders not just to resources, but also to one another.”

Q: If you could give one piece of advice to a young Irish founder or start-up hoping to break into the US market, what would it be?

“Be bold - but do your homework. The US will open doors if you are clear on your value and confident in your vision. Surround yourself with people who have done it before, lean on the community, and remember: you belong here.”

Get involved with Digital Irish by visiting their website, digitalirish.com.

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