State leaders, international diplomats, and local entrepreneurs gathered in Burlington County recently for the New Jersey Economic Development Authority’s (NJEDA) second annual Irish Heritage Roundtable. The event focused on a dual mission: deepening the multi-billion-dollar economic partnership between Ireland and the Garden State while tackling the “real-world” regulatory challenges that stymie small business growth.
The discussion, hosted by Deputy Speaker Carol Murphy, featured NJEDA CEO Evan Weiss in one of his first major public forums since being confirmed as the Authority’s leader earlier this year.
New Jersey’s relationship with Ireland is one of its most robust international pillars. The state was the first in the U.S. to establish a permanent economic development office in Ireland, and the results are reflected in the data:
- Trade Volume: Two-way trade in goods between the regions exceeds $2.4 billion.
- Job Creation: Over 600 Irish companies currently operate in New Jersey, supporting thousands of local jobs.
- Strategic Industries: Collaboration is peaking in high-growth sectors like life sciences, clean energy, and food and beverage.
“This roundtable reflects our commitment to strengthening international partnerships while ensuring small businesses here in New Jersey have the tools they need to succeed,” Weiss, CEO of the NJEDA, said. “If we’re going to develop programs to support entrepreneurs, we have to make sure they are usable in the real world.”
While the macroeconomic ties are strong, local business owners at the roundtable were candid about the difficulties of operating on the ground. Kevin Quinn, owner of Bout the Hops Brewing, emphasized that for small businesses to thrive, the state must simplify the path from “idea to entity.”
“There needs to be margins. I have to be able to make money. It’s that simple,” Quinn noted, calling for increased transparency and a reduction in the “regulatory maze” that often faces startups in the craft beverage and retail sectors.
Deputy Speaker Carol Murphy echoed these sentiments, highlighting the need to “simplify the ability for businesses to start and grow.” She proposed expanding trade missions and educational exchanges to help New Jersey micro-businesses find customers in Irish markets, and vice versa.
Katie Dawn, deputy consul general of Ireland, noted that the foundation is already in place. “Businesses are looking for certainty and the opportunity to grow, and that’s where partnerships like this can make a real impact,” she said.
