I had the opportunity recently to interview Rory Mullen, West Coast Director, IDA Ireland, and ask him a few questions about the innovation climate in Ireland and how the government is contributing to an increase in the innovation capacity of the island.
1. In what way is Ireland’s tech scene similar to that in Silicon Valley?
Mullen: I’d say one of the biggest similarities between Silicon Valley and Ireland is in the innovation. What I mean is that it’s hard when you’re a business in the U.S. to think of markets outside of the country. And when companies do start to think of it, they encounter culture problems. Adapting a product for the European market is made easier with Irish people who are very well traveled and familiar with the U.S.
Image: http://www.innovationexcellence.com
