Recap of the Interceltic Business Forum 2024: A Day of Innovation, Collaboration, and Celtic Connections

Yesterday, the Interceltic Business Forum made a triumphant return to Brittany, bringing together business leaders, innovators, and policymakers from across the Celtic nations. Held in a toasty CCI Morbihan in Lorient, the forum was a dynamic showcase of collaboration, sustainability, and the shared cultural heritage that unites the Celtic regions.

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Now in its sixth edition and fourth time at the Festival Interceltique de Lorient, this forum has established itself as a vital platform for fostering cross-border business partnerships among the Celtic nations. The economic impact of the festival is significant, with the 2023 event generating an impressive €35 million in benefits.

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Keynote Highlights

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The day began with a keynote address that set the tone for the event, focusing on the importance of cross-border cooperation to drive economic growth. EirGrid, represented by Pádraig Slyne, highlighted the progress of the Celtic Interconnector project, a critical infrastructure linking Ireland and France to boost energy resilience and sustainability. Slyne’s insights on the project’s role in deepening ties between Ireland and Brittany were met with enthusiasm.

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Panel Discussions and Insights

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The forum featured several engaging panel discussions that explored various aspects of economic and environmental collaboration. Kiree Gooberman, Head of Business Development at Business Isle of Man, shared the Isle of Man’s approach to balancing economic growth with environmental stewardship. Her discussion with Sarah Mercer, C0-founder, Earthscope and Tiffany Kerruish, Co-founder, Fynoderee Distillery on the island’s status as a UNESCO Biosphere was a highlight, showcasing how the Isle of Man is leading in sustainable development while maintaining strong global connections.

Allan Mulrooney, CEO of the Western Development Commission (WDC), spoke about the organization’s efforts in transforming the Western Region of Ireland. He emphasized the WDC’s role in fostering innovation, supporting local businesses, and promoting the region as a hub for MedTech and creative industries. Mulrooney’s presentation highlighted the importance of long-term strategic investments in driving regional development.

Allan ended his keynote with an Irish proverb that suits the forum perfectly,

"There are no strangers here. Only friends you haven't yet met", William Butler Yeats.

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The day was packed with insightful panel discussions covering a wide range of topics:

• Economic Impact of the Festival Interceltique: Jean-Paul Kihl kicked off the discussions with an introduction, followed by Gilles Poupard from Audélor, Mickael Chevrier from Lorient Bretagne Sud Tourisme, Jean-Paul Kihl from Festival Interceltique de Lorient, and Fabrice Loher from Lorient Agglomeration, highlighting the significant economic contributions of the festival to the region.
• Growing Trade Links between France and Ireland: Patrick Torrekens of Enterprise Ireland France, Barry Cullen of West End Knitwear, and Cecile Le Gall of Anterenn discussed the deepening trade relationships rooted in lasting partnerships between the two nations.
• ROI Spotlight – Merging Business with Convictions: Leslie Le Gal from ALBA l'agence, Philippe Corréa from Seiz Avel - Rennes Enchères, and Anne Kerdi, an AI Influencer, explored how businesses can align with their core values and societal goals.
• The Future of Mobility: Wassim Deruech, COO of Future of Mobility Campus Ireland, provided insights into the evolving landscape of mobility and the exciting developments ahead.
• Making Meaningful Connections: Russell Dalgleish of the Scottish Business Network discussed the importance of creating value and partnerships through meaningful connections.
• The Welsh Dragon – A Roaring Tech Ecosystem: Daniel Sawko from shipshape.vc and Mark John from Tramshed Tech showcased the vibrant and growing tech ecosystem in Wales.
• Maritime Ambitions and Port Transformations in Lorient: Gilles Poupard from Audélor and representatives from Lorient Agglomeration, CCI Morbihan, and Audélor shared the ambitious plans for the transformation of Lorient's ports.
• Managing Risks in Cross-Border Investments: Philippa Ellis from Capital Law concluded the panels with a discussion on navigating the complexities and risks of cross-border investment opportunities.

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Interceltic Scaling Awards: Recognizing Celtic Innovation

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The inaugural Interceltic Scaling Awards, a highlight of the forum, celebrated the outstanding achievements of innovative startups from Celtic nations. Sponsored by OCO Global, a leading technology-enabled advisory firm specializing in trade, investment, and economic development with 12 offices worldwide, the awards drew significant attention. Other key partners included Cornwall Trade and Investment, Cardiff Capital Region, Audelor, and Platform94.

Out of 53 candidates, eight finalists made their way to Lorient to pitch their groundbreaking ideas to the audience.

Here’s a look at the finalists:

• Famileo: This Breton startup has created a unique platform that bridges generations by turning digital messages into personalized family newspapers for elderly loved ones who may not use digital devices.
• Zeus Scooters: A fast-growing Irish company providing sustainable, shared electric scooter services across Europe. Zeus Scooters stood out for its commitment to reducing urban congestion and lowering carbon emissions through eco-friendly transportation solutions.
• BuyMedia: Hailing from Ireland, BuyMedia offers an intelligent platform that helps local businesses plan, manage, and optimize their advertising campaigns across various media channels. Their data-driven approach to local advertising secured them a top spot in the competition.
• Revive Eco: A Scottish startup that recycles used coffee grounds to create valuable products, including natural oils used in cosmetics and biofuels. Revive Eco’s circular economy model impressed the judges with its sustainability focus.
• Ultramed: Based in Cornwall, Ultramed develops digital pre-operative assessment tools that improve patient care and streamline the process for healthcare providers. Their innovative approach to healthcare earned them a finalist spot.
• Flexi-Hex: This Cornish company offers an eco-friendly packaging solution made from sustainable cardboard. Originally designed for surfboards, Flexi-Hex’s packaging is now used in various industries, reducing plastic waste globally.
• Whisper Cymru: A standout Welsh production company that has transformed the landscape of sports, unscripted, and branded entertainment over the last twenty years. Whisper Cymru’s award-winning team creates ground-breaking work that delivers transformative outcomes for global channels, series, and brands, fueling lasting emotional experiences for audiences.
• Delio: A Welsh fintech company providing a platform that helps financial institutions manage and scale their private investment offerings. Delio’s innovative approach to wealth management has garnered attention across the financial sector.

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The awards offered substantial benefits to all finalists, including:

• €5,000 funding support for the two runners-up.
• Mentoring of leadership teams by OCO Global and partner organizations.
• Incubation/soft landing support in another Celtic nation.
• Invitation to the Festival Interceltique de Lorient.
• A trophy commemorating their achievement.

The overall award winner received even greater recognition, with:

• €20,000 in funding.
• Extensive publicity.
• An invitation to future Interceltic Business Forum events as a speaker.
• Up to 3 months of incubation support in the Celtic nation of their choice.

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Congratulations to the winners of the 2024 Interceltic Scaling Awards

1. Famileo
2. Zeus Scooters
3. BuyMedia

These companies were recognized for their exceptional growth and innovation, demonstrating the entrepreneurial spirit that thrives in the Celtic regions.

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Networking and Collaborations

Throughout the day, attendees had numerous opportunities to network and forge new connections. The forum facilitated discussions that are expected to lead to future collaborations between businesses and government agencies across the Celtic nations. The energy in the room was palpable as ideas were exchanged, partnerships were formed, and the spirit of Celtic unity was reinforced. These exchanges continued into the evening as everyone attended the festival to enjoy the vibrant Celtic music, further strengthening the bonds formed during the day.

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Looking Ahead

As the day drew to a close, organizers announced exciting news for the future: the next Interceltic Business Forum will be held in Cornwall in spring 2025. This upcoming forum promises to build on the successes of this year’s event, continuing to strengthen the ties between the Celtic nations and drive forward new opportunities for collaboration.

With the 2024 Interceltic Business Forum now behind us, the focus shifts to implementing the ideas and partnerships that emerged from the event. The discussions and connections made yesterday will undoubtedly contribute to the continued growth and prosperity of the Celtic regions, paving the way for a more connected and sustainable future.

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