Overview
In an era defined by rapid technological innovation and convergence, shifting global supply chains, and evolving healthcare needs, Irish Medtech is proud to present our Strategy for 2026-2029. Developed through rigorous collaboration with industry leaders, the Irish Medtech Board, and subject matter experts, this framework is designed to further advance Ireland’s status as a global medtech hub.
Irish Medtech Strategy 2026–2029 responds directly to emerging global trends, from the critical integration of AI to the growing demand for sustainable practices, ensuring our sector remains resilient and competitive. By empowering both indigenous start-ups and multinationals to navigate these shifts, we aim to transform patient care while driving economic prosperity. This ambitious vision is built on five core pillars, supported by key enablers, which collectively chart our course for the future.
Strategic pillars 2026-2029
To achieve this ambition, we have identified five strategic pillars that together will guide the sustained growth and global competitiveness of Ireland’s medtech sector.
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1. Talent to thrive This pillar focuses on securing Ireland as Europe’s top medtech employer by addressing skills shortages concerning 80% of companies. We aim to attract, develop, and retain best-in-class talent by promoting the sector, strengthening industry-education partnerships to align with digital & AI needs, and tackling competitiveness issues. |
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2. Innovation with impact Recognising innovation as the cornerstone of growth, this pillar aims to evolve Ireland into a globally competitive innovation cluster. Key actions include advocating for world-class RD&I infrastructure investments & pro-innovation policies. We will also accelerate cross-sectoral collaboration & strengthen clinical research to speed up the adoption of new medical technologies. |
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3. Enterprise excellence This pillar is dedicated to strengthening Ireland’s medtech resilience, competitiveness, and productivity, crucial for our global leadership in high-volume manufacturing. The focus is on operating efficiently within a stable policy environment and transitioning to low-carbon manufacturing. This involves supporting companies to deepen their Industry 4.0 & AI-driven capabilities and enhancing supply chain resilience and market access. |
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4. Digital and AI leadership Digital transformation and the ethical adoption of AI are central to a future-ready medtech ecosystem. This strategy aims to position Ireland as a global leader by combining regulatory excellence with responsible innovation. Key initiatives include strengthening data governance and ethical frameworks, accelerating AI deployment support, and offering tailored digital enablement for SMEs. |
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5. Empowered founders This pillar aims to unlock breakthrough technologies andattract global investment by equipping medtech founders with the necessary supports. The strategy will strengthen the entrepreneurial ecosystem through structured programmes and networks, while advocating for accessible funding and addressing barriers like high regulatory compliance costs and difficulties in achieving manufacturing scale. |
Key enablers
In addition to the five strategic pillars, our new strategy incorporates four key enablers that create the conditions for success across the medtech ecosystem. These enablers represent Ibec’s core, cross-sectoral priorities, areas where advocacy, collaboration, and policy leadership are essential to maintaining Ireland’s competitiveness – together they form the foundation that will support the delivery of the strategic pillars.
Four key enablers:
- Driving and strengthening competitiveness
- Shaping & influencing policies
- Embedding sustainable practices
- Fostering strategic collaboration
Get in touch
For any questions or comments about the Irish Medtech Strategy 2026–2029, please call us on 01 605 1500 or send us an email.
Director