Welcoming An Taoiseach to the RDI Hub

We were delighted to welcome An Taoiseach, Micheál Martin, to the RDI Hub during his recent visit to Kerry, marking an important moment for our team and the wider regional innovation ecosystem.

As we approach six years since opening our doors, the visit offered an opportunity to reflect on the impact being created across the region. What began as an ambitious vision for a rural innovation hub has evolved into a centre supporting founders, SMEs and corporates to start, grow and scale, while connecting regional talent with global opportunity.

During the visit, the Taoiseach met directly with founders and member companies, hearing first-hand their growth journeys and gaining insight into the realities of building and scaling businesses from the South West. These conversations highlighted the role regional hubs now play in supporting enterprise, driving job creation and enabling companies to compete internationally.

A key focus of the visit was the breadth of programmes delivered through the Hub, including Enterprise Ireland’s NDRC and a growing portfolio of AI-led and EU-funded initiatives. These programmes provide practical support to startups and SMEs, while also connecting them into wider national and European innovation networks.

Speaking during the visit, An Taoiseach said:
“Great to see Irish enterprise thriving in Killorglin. Fexco has grown from a local start-up to a global leader, and the RDI Hub is now supporting the next generation of Irish innovators. It shows that Irish companies are competing and succeeding on the global stage.”

The visit reinforces the importance of regional innovation as a driver of national and European growth. Hubs like RDI demonstrate that world-class innovation can happen anywhere, with the right support structures, partnerships and ambition in place.

We are grateful for the continued support of Fexco, Munster Technological University, Kerry County Council and Enterprise Ireland in building an ecosystem where innovation-led businesses can thrive.