A Global Platform since 1994
We have over 30 years experience helping companies throughout the region to scale internationally and achieve their global ambitions.
Our Story
Our headquarters, formerly known as ‘Galway Technology Centre’ was established by the Digital Task Force in 1994 to encourage the development of technology-based industry in the West along with acting as a soft-landing site for established multinationals looking for a base in the region. We have evolved significantly over the last three decades. Today our headquarters is 11 times the original size at 66,000 square foot with over 600 people employed on site. Since our inception in 1994, our organization has supported over 300 companies, facilitated 3,000 jobs, and have generated at least €1.3 bn in GVA for the region.
Our Purpose
We are a Centre of Excellence for international scaling technology businesses throughout the west, north west and beyond. Our purpose is to foster innovation, collaboration, and growth within the technology sector by offering tailored support, resources, and networking opportunities to our members, ultimately driving regional economic development.
Our Team
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Marie Donnellan
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
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Thomas Fisher
OPERATIONS MANAGER
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Noreen Conway
REGIONAL OUTREACH & COLLABORATION MANAGER
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Brian Muldoon
CLIENT SCALING MANAGER
Our Board
Dave Hickey - Chairperson
Head of Business Development, DHKN
Dave, a Chartered Accountant with over 30 years’ experience, has held leadership positions in finance, sales, and marketing both in Ireland and internationally. Before starting his consultancy business, he served as CEO of a major media company in the West of Ireland. His career includes leadership roles at KPMG, EY, Nortel, Reuters, Chanelle, Galway Clinic, and the Connacht Tribune Group working in London, Kuwait, Dubai, and Cyprus. Dave has been actively involved in the Galway Chamber, serving as president from 2018 to 2020 and as a board member from 2007 to 2021.
John Brennan
CEO, Westbic
John has over 20 years’ experience working with start-ups and scaling SME’s in the West/North West region. He is ACCA qualified and has previously held the positions of Financial Controller, WestBIC, and Manager, Galway Technology Centre. John is a specialist in the provision of financial modelling support to High Potential Start-Up’s (HPSU’s) seeking seed capital from Enterprise Ireland and the wider Business Angel and investment community.
Kenny Deery
Public Affairs Leader
Kenny, the former CEO of Galway Chamber, brings 20 years of Retail Banking experience, notably as Regional Engagement Manager for AIB in Galway. His diverse background includes roles in business and community sectors within AIB. Additionally, he's been active in Business, Community Development, and Tourism, serving on boards in Mayo and Galway. Kenny has led business delegations to the US and collaborated with various organizations on initiatives for Achill Island. He holds a Corporate MBA from the University of Limerick, alongside qualifications from the Institute of Bankers and the Irish Academy of Public Relations.
Meghann Drury Grogan, PhD, MA, HDip BS
Head of Department of Enterprise & Technology, ATU Galway
Meghann Drury-Grogan, PhD, is a dynamic leader with 22+ years of experience in project management, research, teaching, and consulting. Recognized as the recipient of the 2019 Global Award from Poets & Quants, she excels in leading diverse global teams and implementing communication and change management strategies. Currently serving as Head of Department of Enterprise & Technology at GMIT, soon to be the new Atlantic Technological University, she oversees various degree programs and fosters industry partnerships. Meghann's research contributions have earned her accolades winning three Deloitte Applause Awards.
JP Gilmartin
Partner in Charge, RDJ Galway
JP is Partner-in-Charge of RDJ LLP’s Galway office. He is a corporate lawyer representing a broad range of clients, both indigenous and multinationalwith particular expertise in the Technology, Medtech, Education and Healthcare sectors. His clients include market leading domestic and international companies, private equity and venture capital investors and public bodies. JP routinely advises on mergers and acquisitions transactions and equity and debt fundraisings. JP is past President of the Galway Chamber of Commerce.
Brian Keville
Managing Director, MKO
Brian Keville is the Managing Director and one of the founders of MKO, Ireland's largest dedicated planning and environmental consultancy firm. Brian has over 20 years' professional experience as an environmental consultant and director of MKO. Brian's experience centres on managing large-scale infrastructure and energy projects, working across the public and private sectors.
Caroline Cawley
CEO, iTAG
Caroline Cawley is CEO of leading business and technology speaker forum, iTag, ITAG Skillnet and Co-Founder of the AtlanTec Festival. Since 2002, she has spearheaded ITAG, Ireland’s largest industry-led community of technology companies, fostering collaboration and innovation. Caroline also champions ITAG Skillnet, offering upskilling opportunities to member companies, with a focus on leadership and future skills development. She co-founded the AtlanTec Festival and coordinates the Western Region Cyber Ireland Chapter, demonstrating her commitment to industry engagement and promoting diversity in tech.
Deirdre MacLoughlin
Interim CEO, Galway Chamber
Deirdre MacLoughlin is the Interim CEO of Galway Chamber, where she oversees the strategic direction and operational activities of one of Ireland's leading business organizations. With a deep commitment to fostering economic growth, Deirdre works closely with local businesses and stakeholders to promote regional development and international opportunities.
