Midlands ranked second in Europe for foreign direct investment strategy

Ireland’s Midlands Region has once again been recognised as a ‘European Region of the Future’ by the Financial Times, earning a prestigious ranking in fDi Intelligence’s latest assessment of FDI Strategy in Europe.

In the 2025 rankings, the Midlands region climbed six places to secure 2nd position in Europe in the Small European Regions category for FDI Strategy.

This recognition highlights the region’s exceptional performance in attracting foreign direct investment and its ambitious roadmap for continued economic growth, as outlined in the Midlands Regional Enterprise Plan (MREP).

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Enterprise in the Midlands is thriving, thanks to the collective efforts of the Midlands Regional Enterprise Plan Steering Committee, which brings together key stakeholders from Enterprise, Government, Technological University of the Shannon, Midlands Regional Skills Forum and the regions’ Education and Training Boards.

Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Peter Burke TD, welcomed the accolade, stating, “I am delighted that the Midlands has been recognised by the Financial Times as a ‘European Region of the Future’ for 2025.

This dynamic region, located in the heart of Ireland, presents incredible opportunities for inward investment, economic expansion, and business growth.

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I want to commend all stakeholders involved in the Midlands Regional Enterprise Plan, especially Chair Dr. Anne Cusack and Programme Manager Sarah Morgan, whose dedication and vision have contributed to this achievement.”

Dr. Anne Cusack, Chair of the Midlands Regional Enterprise Plan, emphasised the significance of this recognition:

“Being named one of Europe’s top Small Regions of the Future is a reflection of the commitment and collaboration driving economic growth in the Midlands. As Ireland’s most connected region, we continue to capitalise on opportunities for sustainable development, digital innovation, and placemaking," she added.

In terms of foreign direct investment in the region, there are 52 IDA Ireland client companies located in the Midlands, employing over 8,000 people, with a steady increase in employment of 35% over the past six years and annual exports totalling €2.7 billion.

The pool of companies is extremely diverse, spanning technology, medtech, pharmaceuticals, engineering, and business services.

Growth in indigenous businesses has also been robust, with Enterprise Ireland client companies showing increased employment numbers in 2024 and Local Enterprise Offices in the region reporting consistent employment growth in recent years.

This upward trajectory reflects a sustained trend of increasing employment participation in the Midlands.