2026 and Beyond: North Carolina's Economic Priorities and the Strategic Irish Partnership

​IABA is delighted to welcome Chief Deputy Secretary of Commerce Kenny Flowers and Consul General Frank Groome, who will share their insights on strengthening Irish-US business ties and fostering collaboration across industries.

​2026 marks a pivotal year for Irish-US relations through the USA250 initiative, launched by Honorable Geraldine Byrne Nason (Irish Ambassador to the US) last fall.

​North Carolina has emerged as a vital bridge between Ireland and the Southeastern United States. This event will convene Irish-American business leaders and key North Carolina partners across diverse sectors to explore opportunities for growth and innovation.

​In partnership with the Consulate General of Ireland in Atlanta, which serves the Southeastern United States, our goal is to build a strong network that supports U.S. companies pursuing globalization strategies and Irish companies entering the U.S. market—particularly in North Carolina.
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About the Panel:

• ​​Kenny Flowers: Chief Deputy Secretary of Commerce, State of North Carolina - Bio HERE

• ​​Frank Groome : Consul General of Ireland (Atlanta) - LinkedIn Bio HERE

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​About the Event:

• ​Supported by: IDA Ireland, Enterprise Ireland, & Parker Poe

• ​​Agenda :

  • ​​5:00 - 5:45 PM: Drinks and food, networking.

  • ​​5:45 -7:00 PM: Panel and Q&A.

  • ​​Audience:  By invitation only.