Ireland’s upcoming EU Presidency will offer organisations across business, academia, civil society and representative sectors an opportunity to contribute to the national programme. A new call for Ireland EU Presidency events has been issued by the Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, with applications closing at noon on 25 February 2026.
The initiative is aimed at external organisations that want to host events connected to the department’s Presidency priorities and Ireland’s broader national themes. Successful applicants will help widen participation in the Presidency and bring policy discussions to a wider audience.
Ireland EU Presidency events: who can apply?
The call is open to bodies that can demonstrate a clear connection between their proposed event and the priorities of the Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment. Potential applicants include:
- Representative organisations and sectoral bodies
- Academic and research institutions
- Business and professional organisations
- Civil society groups
- Other external stakeholders with relevant expertise
Applicants should show how their event would support the Presidency’s policy agenda, strengthen public engagement or contribute to Ireland’s wider European conversation.
External funding and responsibility
Associated events will be led and funded by the organisations that propose them. They will not receive central logistical or financial assistance from EU Presidency planning structures.
However, approved events are expected to form part of the broader Presidency events programme and contribute to its overall narrative. Applications will also be considered against Government priorities, alignment requirements and reputational safeguards.
How to apply for Ireland EU Presidency events
The official application form is available through the Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment publication. Completed applications must be emailed to the DETE Presidency Planning Team at presidency@enterprise.gov.ie.
The deadline is noon on 25 February 2026. Organisations considering an application should allow enough time to explain their proposed event, its relevance to the Presidency and its expected contribution to public or stakeholder engagement.
For official Government information and public-service updates, readers can also visit gov.ie.
Read more
Follow more Ireland-focused public policy and business coverage at Daily Digest Ireland news, including updates on Government announcements, enterprise and employment.
Why the call matters
Associated events can extend the reach of an EU Presidency beyond formal meetings. By involving employers, researchers, representative groups and communities, the programme can encourage informed debate on European policy and demonstrate how national priorities connect with EU decision-making.
The Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment says the initiative is intended to provide a structured way for stakeholders to contribute while maintaining consistency with Government priorities. It may also improve the visibility of Ireland’s Presidency themes among people and organisations that do not normally participate in official Presidency structures.
Explore more
For further Irish politics, business and public affairs reporting, visit Media Digest Ireland current affairs and Luxe Digest Ireland lifestyle and business news.
Key takeaway for prospective applicants
Organisations interested in hosting Ireland EU Presidency events should review the official application form, demonstrate a strong link to Presidency priorities and submit their proposal before the 25 February deadline. The opportunity is externally funded, but it offers a route for businesses, academics and civil society to participate in Ireland’s European agenda.
Article/Image Courtesy: gov.ie