Dublin Economic Monitor

Irish Language Fuelling Business Growth Across Dublin

A speical feature by John O'Toole, Head of Economic Development at Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council, who explores how the growing use of the Irish language is creating new opportunities for businesses, entrepreneurs and local communities across Dublin.

The growing popularity of the Irish language is creating new opportunities for businesses across Dublin, with entrepreneurs, retailers and professional services increasingly recognising Gaeilge as a unique commercial advantage.

One local success story is Moontour in Dún Laoghaire Harbour, founded by Seán Greif, which offers Irish-language kayaking and paddleboarding experiences. Inspired by language learning through shared activities, the business has built a distinctive niche through Gaeilge.

The trend is also evident online and in professional services. Dalkey native Mollie Guidera (Irish with Mollie) has developed a global audience teaching Irish through social media, while Dún Laoghaire-based Sheanon Advisory reports growing demand for accountancy services through Irish.

Supporting this momentum, the new Todhchaí.ie programme, a partnership involving Dublin's four local authorities, Údarás na Gaeltachta and the Digital Hub, aims to help entrepreneurs establish and grow Irish-language businesses.

Closer to home, Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council has partnered with BÁC le Gaeilge to support 50 local retailers in welcoming customers who wish to use Irish. According to Síne Nic an Ailí of BÁC le Gaeilge, businesses are increasingly embracing Gaeilge as a way to enhance customer experience, strengthen identity and drive footfall.

The initiative reflects the growing economic impact of the Irish language, which is becoming an increasingly visible feature of Dublin's business landscape.

Sandyford Business District Driving Ireland's Digital Future

A special feature by Paul Kennedy, Director of Planning and Economic Development, Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council

As Ireland holds the Presidency of the Council of the European Union, Sandyford Business District is well placed to support Europe's digital future. Home to the European headquarters of Microsoft and Mastercard, as well as major operations for Google and Meta, Sandyford is one of Ireland's most significant hubs for technology and innovation.

More than 1,000 companies operate in the district, employing approximately 26,000 people across technology, financial services, life sciences and professional services. As Europe considers new approaches to digital regulation and competitiveness, Sandyford's strong ecosystem of multinational companies, SMEs and research partnerships demonstrates Ireland's ability to attract investment and foster innovation.

Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council and Sandyford Business District are also advancing plans for a new Innovation Campus, designed to support start-ups and scaling businesses through flexible workspace, collaboration hubs and specialist facilities.

The article highlights how targeted investment in innovation districts such as Sandyford can help strengthen Ireland's economy, support entrepreneurship and contribute to Europe's long-term digital competitiveness.

Read the full edition at Dublin Economic Monitor Shows Dublin Economy Holding Firm Amid Mixed Q2 Conditions | Dublin Economic Monitor