The Panel at Ireland Gateway to Europe 2026 – Washington DC., Delaware and Philadelphia
This April, The Panel was once again proud to be part of the Ireland Gateway to Europe trade mission to the United States, with our Joint Managing Partner, Paul McArdle, representing us throughout the week.
Ireland Gateway to Europe is a not-for-profit collective of Irish business owners who showcase Ireland as a premier European investment location. Each year, they travel to America to meet with companies from both sides of the Atlantic looking to set up base in Ireland. This year, the delegation of 60 Irish CEOs and senior business leaders visited Washington D.C., Wilmington, Delaware, and Philadelphia for a packed week of high-level briefings, networking events, and bilateral trade discussions.
Paul McArdle (Joint Managing Partner) represented The Panel.
Here is how they got on.
Monday, 27th of April – Washington D.C.
The delegation kicked off the week at the Ronald Reagan Building with a World Trade Center Executive Breakfast Briefing, featuring a timely panel on US-EU trade ahead of Ireland’s upcoming EU Council Presidency. Speakers included Ken Levinson of WITA (moderating), Nicole Bivens Collinson of Sandler Travis & Rosenberg, Sean Murphy of the Information Technology Industry Council, and Jess Kelly from Newstalk, who broadcast live throughout the day.
The afternoon included a tour of the US Capitol Building, followed by a private IDA Ireland briefing for the delegation.
The evening concluded with the District of Conversation (DOC) International Trade Dinner, hosted by the TCMA and the Office of the Mayor of Washington D.C.
Tuesday, 28th of April – Washington D.C.
Day 2 began with DC’s New Economy Breakfast, hosted by the City of Washington D.C. and the DC Economic Partnership. A lively panel explored Washington’s evolving business landscape, featuring speakers from the Department of Buildings, Events DC, and Old Glory DC Rugby, among others.
The morning’s second session focused on DC’s higher education ecosystem, with senior representatives from Howard University, Georgetown University, George Washington University, Gallaudet University, and the University of the District of Columbia sharing perspectives on research, innovation, and international collaboration.
In the afternoon, delegates enjoyed a tour of the National Mall before the evening reception at the residence of the Irish Ambassador.
Wednesday, 29th of April – Wilmington, Delaware
Day 3 saw the delegation travel to Delaware for a Working Luncheon at the University of Delaware, hosted in partnership with WTC Delaware. Speakers covered Delaware’s innovation strategy, life sciences ecosystem, and corporate legal framework – with particular focus on opportunities for Irish companies looking to establish a US presence. A tour of the FinTech Building followed, led by Michael Bowman, President of Delaware Technology Park.
The afternoon included a visit to the Port of Wilmington, where delegates received an overview of port operations, infrastructure, and transatlantic trade flows.
The day concluded with the Ireland Gateway to Europe CEO Reception at the University & Whist Club, which also celebrated 39 years of WTC Delaware’s global trade excellence.
Thursday, 30th of April – Wilmington & Philadelphia
Day 4 featured a session at the Bronze Valley Venture Fund at Delaware State University’s Riverfront Campus — a fascinating look at innovation and investment in the region.
In the evening, the delegation gathered for a networking reception at the Mission Capitalist Club in Philadelphia, rounding off a busy couple of days in the mid-Atlantic region.
Friday, 1st of May – Philadelphia
The final day of the 2026 mission featured a Lunch Panel with Boston Consulting Group at the prestigious Pyramid Club on the 52nd floor. Discussions centred on the transformative role of AI in aerospace and defence, followed by a fireside chat with Heidrick & Struggles on how the current disruptive global environment is reshaping the C-suite and boardroom.
The delegation wrapped up the week with drinks at the historic McGillin’s Olde Ale House — one of Philadelphia’s oldest bars, and a fitting way to close out another memorable mission.
Summary:
The 2026 Ireland Gateway to Europe trade mission brought together an exceptional group of Irish business leaders for a week of meaningful engagement across three major American cities. From trade policy and higher education to venture capital and AI, the breadth of conversation reflected the strength and ambition of Ireland’s transatlantic relationships. It was a privilege for The Panel to be part of it once again.
Until next year!
Many thanks to Adie McGennis, Jamie Harnett, Matt Mohan (FKM) and the wider IGTE team for organising another seamless and inspiring trip. Thanks also to all our hosts, speakers, and fellow delegates.
Special mention to Newstalk, The Hard Shoulder and Jess Kelly for their live broadcasting throughout the week.
If you wish to find out more about Ireland Gateway to Europe, please feel free to contact Paul McArdle at paul@thepanel.com or visit: https://www.gatewaytoeurope.org/
Photo Gallery (Courtesy of IGTE)
*Click on the first image to view the carousel of all photos.
27th of April – Washington DC Executive Breakfast Briefing
27th of April – Washington DC District of Conversation (DOC) International Trade Dinner
28th of April – Washington DC Economic Partnership
28th of April – Washington DC National Mall Tour
28th of April – Washington DC Ambassador’s Reception
29th of April – Delaware – Working Luncheon at the University of Delaware and tour of the FinTech Building
29th of April – Delaware – CEO Reception at the University of Delaware & Whist Club, celebrating 39 years of WTC Delaware’s global trade excellence
