Why American States Are Betting On Ireland
Why American States Are Betting On Ireland  
Podcast: The Next Innovation
Published On: Thu May 28 2026
Description: In this episode of The Next Innovation, host Jennifer Strong walks us through the recent SelectUSA Investment Summit, in which delegates from several US states explore the impact of Irish foreign direct investment. The podcast team attended the Investment Summit and had an opportunity to catch up with Enterprise Ireland CEO Jenny Melia and Minister Peter Burke, Ireland's Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment. They shared how the relationship with American states has expanded business and technological opportunities. The episode also features interviews with Tricia Utterback and Emily Desai of the California Governor's Office of Business and Economic Development, Cathriona Fay, Vice President of Clean Energy Production and Manufacturing at Illinois Economic Development Corporation, Amanda Fisher, Director of International Relations and Protocol for the Office of the Governor of Washington, and Elise Buchen, International Business Development Manager and Gabrielle Gerbaud, Executive Director and Chief Protocol Officer of the State of Minnesota. Each of these interviews highlights how Irish innovation, from quantum computing to dairy production, has encouraged a healthy state economy, boosted the job market, and enabled actionable growth. Episode produced by Situation Room Studios. Executive Producer is Christine Baratta, Senior Producer is Sharon Beriro.