Donegal people champion their county at the Dargan Forum 2025
Anne Marie McLaughlin, ii inishowen innovation and Kevin Sexton Alpha Innovation will speak at the event.
The ‘Why Choose Donegal’ event will take place at 7.30pm on Wednesday, 2nd of July in the Royal Marine Hotel as part of the Dargan Forum in Dún Laoghaire.
At a time when the costs of operating a business in Ireland’s cities has never been more expensive, Donegal’s Kevin Sexton will host a compelling panel discussion on why now is the perfect time to look north-west. Kevin is head of innovation at ALPHA Innovation, Letterkenny, facilitating practical workshops that propel ambitious SMEs and entrepreneurs forward with a suite of techniques & tools that make innovation easy. ALPHA aims to establish Donegal as a hotbed of Innovation with its iconic building opening summer of 2025.
With breathtaking natural beauty, a strong community spirit, and growing opportunities for remote and hybrid work, Donegal offers an appealing alternative for people and businesses considering a move away from city life.
Held in the scenic surroundings of the Royal Marine Hotel, the event is designed for individuals and enterprises at a turning point — whether planning their next business expansion, seeking a better quality of life, or returning to family roots in the northwest.
Part of the broader Dargan Forum on Ireland’s Green & Digital Transition, now in its third year, the event is one of 11 sessions featuring 55 speakers over two days. The Forum invites thought leaders to share ideas on how to ensure that Ireland’s shift to a green and digital economy supports small businesses, social enterprises, and the communities they anchor.
Anne Marie McLaughlin, Innovation Manager at Inishowen Innovation, will speak about the strength of Donegal’s digital ecosystem and cross-border opportunities for collaboration in innovation and sustainability. Her insights will highlight how Donegal is positioning itself at the forefront of the green and digital agenda, particularly for businesses and entrepreneurs seeking a progressive base with global reach.
Terence O’Donnell, Projects and Consulting Partner at Auxilion, has been an advocate for Donegal for many decades. Stressing the ever deepening ecosystem of supports, businesses and innovation centres in the county, he will outline how it has come on in leaps and bounds in the past two decades. From improved broadband to world-class outdoor amenities, Terence will explain why Donegal represents not just an escape from city stress, but a destination for future-focused living.
This event is an open invitation to anyone interested in learning more about Donegal’s potential as a business destination — whether you’re a native, a returnee, or simply exploring alternatives to urban living. Come along or share with your network.
The free event takes place in the Mariner Room of the Royal Marine Hotel, Dún Laoghaire, starting at 7.30pm on Wednesday, 2nd July. For more information and to register, visit: https://www.darganinstitute.ie/dargan-forum-2025-programme#donegal
