A pro-business environment
Ireland remains one of the most business-friendly locations in Europe, underpinned by a government committed to supporting enterprise and innovation.
This long-standing support continues to deliver results. Ireland now ranks as the most competitive economy in the euro area and is the seventh most competitive globally. Meanwhile, overall labour productivity continues to rise, increasing by 5.7% in 2025 to reach €127 per hour.
Dublin was recently ranked first in Europe for Economic Potential in fDi Intelligence’s Major European Cities of the Future 2025 report, rising one position from the previous year. The city also placed second overall and third for Business Friendliness, keeping its position as a destination for international investment.
Ireland also has an enticing business proposition, with a competitive corporate tax rate of 12.5%, world-leading investment incentives, and double taxation agreements with 75 countries – all signalling that international trade and cross-border growth are national priorities.
Global connectivity
Due to its strategic positioning, Dublin is a critical transatlantic gateway that offers access to both European and North American markets. As the only native English-speaking country in the EU, Ireland provides a unique advantage for global firms navigating European operations.
A committed member of the EU and Eurozone, Ireland has access to a 750-million-strong consumer base, supported by Dublin’s world-class transport infrastructure. The city is also one of the most globally connected in the world, making it a preferred location for international headquarters.
Dublin’s economic, cultural, and political ties with the United States also enhance its appeal. Ireland is the only EU country to offer US pre-clearance, which streamlines business travel and enables direct, efficient access to key US markets.
A multinational innovation hub
Dublin is a business capital, home to clusters of global leaders in technology, pharmaceuticals, and financial services. Many of the world’s most influential multinational corporations have established a presence here, drawn by the city’s skilled talent pool, business-friendly environment, and global connectivity.
Beyond its role as a hub for multinational headquarters, Dublin also has a thriving startup ecosystem. The city promotes innovation through a network of incubators, accelerators, and research centres, creating an environment where early-stage companies can prosper alongside global players.
With a broad range of government and private sector supports, entrepreneurs can scale quickly and access the resources needed to compete on a global stage.
A high-performing workforce
Ireland consistently ranks among the top global performers for workforce productivity and talent availability. It leads the EU in labour productivity, with workers contributing an average of €127 per hour, two-and-a-half times the EU average, and holds the highest percentage of residents educated to a bachelor’s degree level or higher worldwide, reflecting the depth and quality of its talent pool.
Dublin stands out as a talent-rich capital. The city’s labour force is not only productive, but exceptionally well educated with 65% of residents aged 25 to 64 holding third-level qualifications, far exceeding the EU-27 average of 43%.
This talent pool is across critical sectors including technology, life sciences, and financial services, making Dublin an ideal base for knowledge-intensive industries.
A centre for innovation
Between 2023 and 2024, €7 billion was invested in research and development across Ireland’s economy, underscoring its position as a global leader in research, development and innovation. In 2024 alone, 234 investment wins were secured nationwide, with €1.9 billion allocated to R&D-focused initiatives which supported 64 high-impact projects expected to generate 13,500 new jobs in the coming years.
The Irish government has strengthened its commitment to innovation by increasing the R&D tax credit to 35%, while also raising the first-year payment threshold to €87,500. This targeted enhancement gives SMEs and first-time claimants faster access to financial benefits, which bolsters Dublin’s appeal as a location where innovation is incentivised.
Ireland’s intellectual property regime, industry-academia partnerships, and network of accelerators and innovation supports provide a strong foundation for R&D success.
In Dublin, this innovation ecosystem is powered even further by the presence of global leaders such as Amazon, Meta, Microsoft, and Salesforce. With 16 of the world’s top 20 tech firms and all top three enterprise software providers operating in Ireland, Dublin is firmly established as a global hub for technology and innovation.
Investment in Dublin has reached historic highs, and the city’s momentum continues to build. From world-class talent and infrastructure to a successful innovation ecosystem, these are just a few of the reasons why global companies choose to invest here.
To explore what Dublin can offer your business, browse the articles below for insights on getting started.
