DCED team promotes Pennsylvania for investments and tourism in Ireland

September 30, 2025 September 30, 2025

Editorial Staff

DCED's Strategic Push in Ireland: A Boon for Pennsylvania's Economy

In a bid to bolster international business investments, senior representatives from the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) embarked on a mission to Ireland. Their goal was to highlight Pennsylvania as a prime location for global business expansion. This effort has already attracted investments exceeding $93 million from 22 multinational corporations over the past year.

Recently, an announcement from the Shapiro Administration revealed three significant investments by Irish companies in Pennsylvania. These investments, totaling $46 million, are set to create at least 184 jobs across three counties.

Additionally, VisitPA is promoting the state's attractions to Irish tourists, anticipating a wave of visitors for major events scheduled in Pennsylvania in 2026.

Harrisburg, PA – As part of the Shapiro Administration's ongoing efforts to enhance international business ties, senior officials from the DCED traveled across Ireland. Their mission included engaging with business leaders and stakeholders to showcase Pennsylvania's cultural richness and economic dynamism.

The trip resulted in three substantial investments from Irish firms, namely Kerry, Tate, and PM Group. These expansions are expected to generate at least 184 new jobs across the state.

The delegation included Secretary Rick Siger, BusinessPA's Chief Commercial Officer Aaron Pitts, and Tourism Deputy Secretary Anne Ryan. Siger and Pitts held discussions with 17 Irish firms, along with economic and trade experts, to elevate Pennsylvania's global profile.

“It was an absolute honor to be in Ireland promoting the Commonwealth on behalf of the Shapiro Administration, giving us an opportunity to tell people first-hand what we’re doing to make Pennsylvania the best state in the nation to do business,” stated Secretary Siger. “Bringing global businesses and international tourists to Pennsylvania are key parts of Pennsylvania’s 10-Year Economic Development Strategy, and trips like this one are vital to fostering working relationships and encouraging more international companies to invest here.”

The economic mission coincided with the Pittsburgh Steelers' landmark match against the Minnesota Vikings, marking the first-ever regular-season NFL game held in Ireland at Dublin's Croke Park. Recognizing the importance of tourism and hospitality in the state's economic strategy, Pennsylvania's Office of Tourism launched a Visit PA campaign in Belfast and Dublin. This initiative aims to boost awareness of Pennsylvania's attractions and the significant events it will host in 2026.

“Ireland and Pennsylvania already share a deep cultural connection — from our Irish heritage communities to our shared love of sport and fandom. The Steelers game in Dublin served as the perfect backdrop to further strengthen that bond in a way that inspires trips to Pennsylvania in 2026,” expressed Tourism Deputy Secretary Ryan. “We want Irish fans to join us not only for the NFL Draft, the FIFA World Cup, and America’s 250th birthday, but also to learn more about the many unique destinations and experiences across Pennsylvania that demonstrate why Pennsylvania is truly The Great American Getaway.”

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