NI Connections

Where else can you find a cross-border city region that effortlessly bridges the UK, Ireland, and Europe? This dynamic locale is your ticket to seamless operations, whether you're connecting with America at sunrise or Europe by lunchtime.

Think of the North West as the business world’s best-kept secret—a buzzing hub of innovation, opportunity, and talent. Here, ambitious dreams meet practical possibilities, fuelled by a thriving economy and a community that knows how to get things done. And whether you’re looking to set up shop or take your existing business to new heights, the North West rolls out the red carpet with unwavering support and a forward-thinking spirit.

From global time zones to groundbreaking ideas, this region isn’t just a place to work—it’s a place to thrive. Ready to make the move? The North West is ready to make it unforgettable.

Super Connected

Did you know? The North West has a remarkable digital infrastructure, making it one of the most accessible destinations in the world. Here are some key highlights:

• Closer than California: The North West is digitally closer to the East Coast of North America than California.
• Real-Time Collaboration: Teams spanning various time zones can work together effectively, sharing information seamlessly
• Recognised for Remote Working: Awarded first place for remote working in Northern Ireland and fourth across the UK.
• Superfast Broadband: 97% availability of superfast broadband ensures connectivity is never a concern.

This level of connectivity provides businesses with an edge, enabling global collaboration with efficiency.

Talent Pool

One of the North West's greatest assets is its vibrant and skilled workforce. The region benefits from a close partnership between civic, educational, and commercial sectors, ensuring that top talent is readily accessible. Collaboration between institutions guarantees that graduates and employees are equipped with industry-specific skills, preparing them for seamless entry into the workforce.

One of the North West's crown jewels? Its people. This region boasts a workforce that’s as vibrant as it is skilled, brimming with talent ready to take on the world. The secret? A powerful partnership between civic leaders, top-notch educational institutions, and forward-thinking businesses. Together, they create a talent pipeline that’s always flowing.

From classroom to career, collaboration is the name of the game here. Whether it’s crafting industry-specific programs or fine-tuning cutting-edge skills, the region makes sure its graduates and employees are workforce-ready—and then some. It’s a recipe for success, where ambition meets preparation, and the results speak for themselves.

The North West doesn’t just build a workforce—it builds a future. 

Did you know...

• Youthful Demographics:35% of the population is under 25 years old, making it one of the youngest and most educated regions in Europe.
• Strong Staff Retention:Businesses in major growth sectors enjoy high retention rates, reducing recruitment and training costs while boosting operational stability.
• Annual Graduates:With nearly a third of the population educated to degree level, approximately 7,000 graduates enter the workforce each year.
• Technical Expertise:Universities and Institutes in the region have a proven track record of producing industry-tailored graduates, ensuring technical proficiency for growing businesses.
• International Diaspora:The North West’s large diaspora provides an opportunity for recruitment, targeting those who are eager to return home for the region's high quality of life and lower living costs.

Competitive Advantage

The North West City Region isn’t just a place to do business—it’s a place where business thrives. With its pro-business environment and a government that’s all-in on fuelling economic growth, this region has made its mark on the international stage as a top-tier, cost-savvy, high-quality location for investors.

But don’t just take our word for it—between 2015 and 2024, the region proudly welcomed over 7,000 new jobs thanks to foreign direct investment and the growth of local businesses. That’s not just progress; that’s proof of potential.

And here’s the cherry on top: getting your business up and running here is as fast as it is simple. With company registration taking only 24 hours, you’ll be ready to roll in no time. So, why wait? The North West City Region is open for business—and ready to welcome yours.

Location Location Location

Welcome to the North West City Region, where affordability meets opportunity! Life here doesn’t just cost less—it offers more. With lower expenses for essentials like housing, travel, food, drink, and entertainment, this region sets the stage for a lifestyle that’s as rewarding as it is accessible.

The perks of affordable living? They’re hard to beat:

Stretch Your Salary Further: Employees enjoy more disposable income, whether they’re saving for the future or indulging their passions today. Financial freedom feels great, doesn’t it?

Work-Life Bliss: Affordable living means less stress and more balance. From cozy homes to wallet-friendly transport, life in the North West is designed for well-being and peace of mind.

Employer’s Dream Come True: Attract top talent with a promise of financial security—without needing sky-high salaries. Stability and satisfaction go hand in hand here.

Stay Happy, Stay Loyal: With affordable comforts, employees feel secure and supported, boosting job satisfaction and retention rates. Happy teams build successful businesses!

The North West City Region isn’t just affordable—it’s a gateway to growth, success, and a quality of life that’s second to none.

Living Here

Looking for your dream home? The North West has it all! From charming period properties brimming with character to sleek, modern developments—and everything in between. Prefer the buzz of the city or the tranquillity of the countryside? You’ll find urban apartments and country retreats ready to welcome you.

And here’s the best part: the North West won’t just win your heart—it’ll be kind to your wallet too. With house prices and rents significantly lower than other cities, you’ll enjoy more take-home pay and a lot more smiles. Affordable living, happy employees, and a vibrant lifestyle—what’s not to love?

Quality of Life

The North West City Region is where adventure meets breathtaking beauty! With a jaw-dropping 1,235km of coastline, this region is where the legendary Wild Atlantic Way and the iconic Causeway Coastal Route collide, creating a paradise for explorers and relaxation seekers alike.

Picture this...

14 award-winning Blue Flag beaches offering everything from sweeping panoramas to tucked-away coves. It’s not just about the scenery - this is also a haven for thrill-seekers, with world-famous surfing spots that’ll get your heart racing and world-class golf courses where the views are as spectacular as the games. And when it’s time to unwind, there are tranquil offshore islands and more than 100km of traffic-free cycle paths and greenways for stress-free escapes.

But it doesn’t stop there. The countdown to the Golf Open 2025 has officially begun! This international tournament will showcase not only elite athleticism but also the unique charm of the region.

The Golf Open 2025 is more than just a competition; it’s a celebration of community, culture, and connection. Visitors and locals will experience the North West’s warm hospitality, explore its picturesque landscapes, and enjoy a calendar of vibrant events surrounding the tournament. The buzz is palpable, and as the year unfolds, the excitement will only grow. Make sure to mark your calendars for an unforgettable summer!

Not a golf fan? The North West is home to international events, and festivals that have earned global recognition (National Geographic Traveller’s The Cool List, anyone?). And did we mention it’s officially the best Halloween destination in the world, according to USA Today? Throw in its historic city walls - recognised by UNESCO as a must-see site—and you’ve got yourself an unbeatable mix of history, culture, and natural wonder.

And let’s not forget the people. Known as the friendliest and happiest in the UK and Ireland (Office of National Statistics 2017–2018), the North West is more than a destination - it’s a feeling.

Partnerships

The North West City Region is your ultimate business ally! With top-tier support partners and world-renowned centres of excellence in AI and Robotics, Life Sciences, Data Analytics, RegTech, and Precision Medicine, the region is ready to arm your company with everything it needs to stay ahead of the pack. Whether you're diving into Digital and Creative Technologies, transforming Advanced Manufacturing & Engineering, or breaking boundaries in Life & Health Sciences, this innovation hub is your playground.

But why stop at local success? The North West is globally connected, boasting strong international partnerships with the USA, City of London, and China. Unique economic collaborations, yearly trade and investment missions, and friendship agreements with Asia’s key players make this region the bridge to global markets. Oh, and did we mention it's ranked among the top ten economies worldwide for innovation (World Intellectual Property Organization, Global Innovation Index 2023)? Game-changing is just what we do.

Business here isn’t just about innovation - it’s about access. Enjoy tailored B2B meetings, tap into in-market consultants and industry experts, and make waves with exceptional networking opportunities. From connections to decision-makers to extensive media coverage, the North West opens doors you didn’t even know existed.

Backed by world-class support and partnerships, the North West City Region is where ambitions turn into accomplishments.

With an ever-expanding network of innovation and digital co-working hubs, you’ll find everything you need to thrive. Think high-speed broadband, fully-equipped office suites, private offices, and shared remote working spaces - designed with flexibility and collaboration in mind.

This isn’t just any workspace - it’s where ideas come to life! Picture yourself growing your business in a dedicated space, meeting clients with ease, and teaming up with world-class research centres. From cutting-edge research labs to buzzing science parks and creative innovation spaces, the North West provides the tools to accelerate your success. Plus, with strong local government support, you’ll have everything you need to turn ambition into achievement.

Whether you’re brainstorming in a co-working hub or driving breakthroughs in a research lab, the North West delivers tailored solutions to keep you ahead of the curve.

The North West is more than just a region—it's a powerhouse of connectivity, innovation, and talent. It’s a region where potential knows no bounds and success stories are written every day. From breathtaking coastlines and vibrant cultural experiences to world-class innovation hubs and global business connections, this is a destination that delivers on every front.

Whether you're seeking a thriving business environment, affordable living, top-tier talent, or simply a place where work-life balance feels effortless, the North West offers the perfect blend of opportunity and charm. With unwavering local government support, cutting-edge research facilities, and international partnerships that span the globe, this region is tailor-made for growth, innovation, and making your mark on the world stage.

Ready to join the story? The North West is ready to welcome you with open arms.

For further information contact:

Derry City & Strabane District Council:
www.investderrystrabane.com
investment@derrystrabane.com

Donegal County Council
www.donegalcoco.ie or www.donegal.ie
economicdevelopment@donegalcoco.ie

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