Ulster University recently welcomed Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald MLA and stakeholders from across the public and private sectors to its Belfast campus for a seminar focused on advancing regionally balanced economic growth in Northern Ireland.
The event, hosted by Ulster University Business School, explored key research findings from two recent studies: Delivering Balanced Regional Economic Growth in Northern Ireland by Dr Eoin Magennis of the Ulster University Economic Policy Centre (UUEPC), and Infrastructure to Promote and Support Subregional Business Start-Up & Growth by independent economist Maureen O’Reilly.
Opening the event, Professor Gillian Armstrong, Pro Vice-Chancellor and Executive Dean of Ulster University Business School, said:
“We are delighted to host this important seminar and welcome all attendees to our Belfast campus. This event is a great example of how the University and UUEPC contribute research-informed insight to shape economic policy and support delivery of the Programme for Government. Regional and campus balance is a strategic priority for Ulster University, and through collaboration with Government, we are committed to exploring practical interventions that create positive outcomes for all communities.”
In her keynote address, Minister Archibald welcomed the research and emphasised the importance of using the findings to shape future policies, saying:
“Regional Balance is something that is very important to me as Economy Minister. It is one my four strategic objectives and is being mainstreamed into every decision, every policy and every initiative taken by my Department.
"Regional economic disparities are not just numbers on a chart – they represent real communities, real people, and real potential that remains untapped.
"What is clear from the research is that to improve regional balance we need genuine empowerment of local governance structures with adequate resources to drive economic development, supported by coherent central policies. This is why we are creating Local Economic Partnerships.”
A panel discussion chaired by Paul Grocott, Deputy Secretary for the Economic Policy Group at the Department for the Economy, brought together key stakeholders including Invest NI’s Ethna McNamee to reflect on the research and share insights on how place-based policy approaches can drive sustainable growth, innovation and productivity across all regions.
Dr Eoin Magennis of the UUEPC commented:
“Globally, regionally balanced economies tend to perform better – they offer broader opportunities for citizens, promote social cohesion, and reduce infrastructure constraints that come with over-concentration. Our research shows that while Northern Ireland is making some strides, a more targeted approach – tying the work of the new Local Economic Partnerships to key priorities such as productivity and job quality – will be essential to deliver long-term impact.”
Minister Archibald concluded:
“Regional balance requires collaboration across departments, with local councils, businesses, and communities. It demands innovation, resilience, and above all, a shared belief that every part of the north matters.”
Both reports discussed during the event are now publicly available:
