University of Galway Business Summit
Thinking Beyond: Thought Leadership for the Public Good
Business Summit is the flagship annual business event hosted by J.E. Cairnes School of Business & Economics at University of Galway.
Bringing together business leaders, entrepreneurs, policymakers, researchers and professionals from across Ireland and beyond, the Summit provides a platform for exploring the ideas, challenges and opportunities shaping the future of business and society.
As part of the School's Thinking Beyond: Thought Leadership for the Public Good series, Business Summit connects academic expertise with industry experience, creating meaningful dialogue around the issues that matter most to organisations, communities and the wider economy.
Each year, the Summit focuses on a theme of strategic importance, providing attendees with practical insights, thought-provoking discussion and valuable networking opportunities. From digital transformation and sustainable growth to artificial intelligence and the future of work, Business Summit continues to explore the forces driving change in an increasingly complex and interconnected world.
Over the years, the event has welcomed hundreds of senior business leaders, executives, entrepreneurs, alumni and decision-makers, establishing itself as one of the leading business thought leadership events in the region.
SAVE THE DATE: BUSINESS SUMMIT 2027 - FRIDAY 28 MAY
University of Galway - Business Summit 2026
The Business of AI
Business Summit 2026 explored one of the most significant developments shaping organisations today: artificial intelligence. Bringing together leading voices from industry, investment, technology and academia, the Summit examined how businesses can responsibly harness AI to drive innovation, create value and remain competitive in rapidly evolving markets.
Discussions explored AI adoption, digital transformation, investment opportunities, scaling AI-enabled businesses and the role of AI in highly regulated sectors including healthcare, MedTech and financial services. Through keynote presentations, expert panels and research-led insights, attendees gained practical perspectives on navigating the opportunities and challenges of the AI era.
University of Galway - Business Summit 2025
Digitalisation at Speed, Scaling and Sustainable Finance
Business Summit 2025 focused on how organisations can successfully navigate an increasingly digital and interconnected business environment. Through discussions on digital transformation, business scaling and sustainable finance, the event explored the strategic decisions required to drive growth while maintaining resilience and responsibility.
Industry leaders, entrepreneurs, policymakers and academics shared practical insights on topics including artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, business expansion, innovation and environmental, social and governance (ESG) considerations. The Summit provided attendees with a valuable opportunity to learn from leading experts while exploring the future of business in a rapidly changing world.
University of Galway - Business Summit 2024
Digital Transformation, Scaling and Sustainable Growth
Business Summit 2024 examined the opportunities and challenges created by digital transformation and the evolving demands placed on modern organisations. Bringing together business leaders, researchers and policymakers, the event explored how organisations can embrace innovation, achieve sustainable growth and create long-term value.
Through keynote addresses, panel discussions and expert insights, attendees considered topics including technology adoption, leadership, business growth and responsible innovation. The Summit highlighted the importance of balancing ambition with sustainability while equipping organisations to thrive in an increasingly dynamic global environment.
University of Galway - Business Summit 2023
Engaging People and Leading on Sustainability
Business Summit 2023 marked the launch of the School's flagship business thought leadership event series, bringing together business leaders, policymakers, academics and industry experts to explore two critical challenges facing organisations: talent engagement and sustainability.
Through business case studies, panel discussions and research-led insights, the event examined how organisations can attract, develop and retain talent while responding to growing expectations around sustainability and environmental, social and governance (ESG) practices. The Summit highlighted the importance of leadership, innovation and collaboration in building resilient organisations and sustainable regional growth.
"Business Summit 2026 provided a fantastic opportunity to hear from industry leaders and gain fresh perspectives on the challenges and opportunities shaping business today."
Attendee - Business Summit 2026