Platform94, the largest innovation hub in the west of Ireland, has firmly established itself as a centre of excellence for scaling businesses. Its 66,000 sq ft headquarters in Galway city is home to over 85 companies and leads the regional charge in helping ambitious businesses scale internationally.
Its growing SCALE by Platform94 regional community includes over 50 scaling companies across eight counties in the west and northwest. These indigenous businesses are active in some of Ireland’s most exciting sectors, including AI, Medtech, SaaS, Cybersecurity, Spacetech, Biotech, Agtech, and Digital Transformation. The community was recently bolstered by a partnership with Enterprise Ireland, bringing enhanced support for companies targeting global expansion. Central to Platform94’s success is its focus on collaboration, connecting founders, advisors, experts, and partners to fast-track growth. Platform94 is also the official west/northwest partner for Skillnet Innovation Exchange, linking SMEs with corporate innovation opportunities across Ireland.
Tackling international scaling barriers
Recent survey data from SCALE by Platform94 members reveals an average projected revenue growth of 68 per cent with headcount increases of 55 per cent in the coming year. While ambitions for global growth remain high, particularly in the UK and the US, international expansion is not without its hurdles. The top barriers identified were access to local market insights and networks, cost of market entry, access to overseas talent, and scaling operational capacity. In response, Platform94 has doubled down on connecting members with international partners, expert advisors, and peer scaling experience.
CEO Marie Donnellan noted: “Understanding foreign markets is essential for success. We are continuing to build strong international partnerships that give our community access to talent, local market insights, and trusted networks, helping companies de-risk entry and improve their chances of scaling successfully.”
With 80 per cent of businesses expecting AI and Machine Learning to have a significant impact in the areas of product development, operational efficiency, and customer experience, there is a clear drive from companies to innovate as they scale.
Driving economic impact
Platform94’s influence goes far beyond its headquarters. According to its recent 2024 Annual Report, companies operating at Platform94 in Galway generated over €300 million in 2024 with an estimated total economic impact of over €540 million.
As demand rises, Platform94 continues to unlock the west’s scaling potential, ensuring companies can scale globally from right here in the west. To learn more, visit platform94.com/scale
