Sister, the £1.7bn innovation district based in Manchester, has announced an international partnership with Ireland’s Platform94.
Based in Galway, Platform 94 works similarly to Sister, providing tech businesses in the West of Ireland with workspaces, access to a supportive business community and corporate partnerships.
With the 12 month partnership in place, both tech hubs will offer reciprocal access to workplaces and encourage collaboration and international links between the West of Ireland and Greater Manchester.
“Both Greater Manchester and Galway are home to thriving digital and tech sectors, with shared strengths in areas like AI and medical technologies,” said Andy Burnham, mayor of Greater Manchester.
“During our recent trade mission to Ireland we explored opportunities for further collaboration and it’s great to see those discussions result in this partnership, which is all about helping innovative companies work together and access new markets.
“Many Irish companies have chosen Greater Manchester as their UK base, and by strengthening our offer we can make that process more straightforward for the next wave of businesses looking to expand here, meaning more investment and more jobs created in our city region.”
The partnership will also encourage knowledge exchange between startups in the hubs and market entry support between the regions.
“This partnership is more than sharing desks; it’s about supporting businesses to grow and expand, and share talent, ideas and ambition,” said Liz Bamber, director of place at Sister.
“By linking Sister and Platform94, we are creating a frictionless environment for entrepreneurs to scale across borders, enter new markets, and leverage industry experts. ”
Read more: In conversation with: Sister’s Brad Topps
