Known not only for its cobbled streets and the warmth of its people, Dublin has also risen to prominence over the years as a vibrant tech hub. Despite its deep historical roots, the city actively embraces the future and attracts tech giants from all over the globe to Ireland’s emerald shores. For corporate travellers planning a trip to the heart of Ireland, this guide will tell you all you need to know about Dublin's technological landscape.
The rise of a thriving tech hub
Dublin’s rise in the tech industry took shape in the early 2000s when Google established its European headquarters there in 2003. The city’s advantageous low tax rates, its strategic positioning as a gateway to Europe, and its robust, talented multinational workforce were all compelling reasons for Google to choose Dublin as its European hub.
Fast forward to today, it stands tall amongst other leading European technology centres, home to the EMEA headquarters of major players like Facebook, Slack and LinkedIn, to name but a few. While there are many tech businesses scattered across the city, the spotlight shines on the "Silicon Docks", a vibrant urban area situated on Dublin's waterfront named in homage to California's iconic Silicon Valley.
Photo by Redd F on Unsplash
The Docks are packed with startups, scale-ups, and established firms in finance and tech. Here's the brands you can expect to see populating the docks:
- X (formerly Twitter) opened its Dublin office in 2011, situated in the heart of the Silicon Docks near Grand Canal Square. The location offers proximity to other tech companies and fosters a collaborative environment. X’s Dublin office stands out for its emphasis on sustainability, incorporating eco-friendly design elements.
- LinkedIn was established in 2010, with its office close to X's and many others. With a focus on fostering professional development and networking, the office includes spaces for hosting workshops, networking events and career-focuses seminars.
- Salesforce established its presence in 2001, with a sprawling campus situated in the heart of the docklands. It’s health-centric facilities emphasise employee wellbeing with meditative spaces and wellness programs.
- Indeed opened its Dublin Docks office in 2012. The distinctive workspace puts diversity and inclusivity at the forefront and transparency is both a metaphorical and literal ethos, with glass offices and spacious modern areas.
The Silicon Docks is an area that encourages positive work-life balance with great places to eat and socialise littered amongst the vibrant businesses. Although the immediate area has plenty to do and see, it’s also not far from the city centre and local transport. For business travellers there’s plenty of flexible serviced apartments situated in the area such as: Beckett Locke by Edyn, Grand Canal Apartments, Urban Rest Docklands and Staycity Dublin Mark Street, to name a few.
Why tech?
Dublin's allure for the tech world is multifaceted. The city champions a workforce of more than 90,700 in the ICT sector across 5,178 companies, which is a considerable number employed by local domestic companies. In the aftermath of Brexit, Ireland found itself uniquely positioned as one of the only native English-speaking countries in the EU, enticing more multinational companies. Additionally, when you factor in its population’s penchant for high-level academia with an emphasis on third-level education, it makes for an appealing destination for tech enthusiasts seeking opportunities.
Photo by Mark Dalt via Pexels
Innovation and Support for Tech Growth
Despite being well established within the tech world for more than two decades now, Dublin’s growth in the sector shows no signs of slowing. With a wide range of support and funding available for budding entrepreneurs and startup businesses, Dublin maintains growth within the tech industry through initiatives such as the National Startup Accelerator Programme. Their mission is to help new businesses succeed, offering mentorships and guidance from industry experts.
Dublin’s ongoing commitment to the Tech sector is evident with several think tanks, like the Digital Hub, who provide space for indigenous startups to help scale and grow them. Similarly, Dogpatch Labs has created a collaborative community where startup companies can share knowledge and form connections. Additionally, the Irish government provides substantial financial backing and grants for small and medium-size enterprises through initiatives like Enterprise Ireland and the Innovation Vouchers Scheme which can be used to purchase business resources or services.
Photo by Luciann Photography via Pexels
Quality of Life and Living in Dublin
Dublin isn’t only a tech haven, it also has an impressive access to nature, offering parks, coastal areas, and nearby mountain ranges for those seeking some balance from the industrial world. The city's cultural vibrancy, from theatres to music scenes and renowned pubs, creates a well-rounded lifestyle for tech professionals seeking a balanced work-life experience.
Dublin's tech landscape presents a world of opportunities for business travellers. For more activities in Dublin, read our blog on the green side of Dublin. For more information about serviced apartments in Dublin you can contact our team of experts to help you find the perfect stay in the heart of Ireland.
