Ireland will welcome Europe’s SME and cluster community to Dublin this November as the SME & Clusters Assembly 2026 brings together entrepreneurs, policymakers, researchers, investors and innovation leaders. The event, supported by Enterprise Ireland, will place Irish businesses at the centre of discussions on competitiveness, technology and sustainable growth.
Taking place from 2–4 November 2026 under the theme “Connecting for a Competitive Europe”, the gathering will combine the European SME Assembly and European Cluster Conference for the first time.
SME Clusters Assembly 2026 to connect Irish businesses with Europe
The SME Clusters Assembly 2026 is designed to help small and medium-sized enterprises build international partnerships, exchange expertise and identify new opportunities in European markets. Its programme will focus on several issues shaping the future of enterprise, including:
- Artificial intelligence and technology adoption
- Access to new markets and internationalisation
- Resilient and competitive supply chains
- Innovation, entrepreneurship and productivity
- Skills development and sustainable business growth
Networking, matchmaking and knowledge-sharing sessions will allow SMEs, cluster organisations and research partners to develop practical collaborations. The event also offers Irish companies an opportunity to present their capabilities to European industry leaders and policymakers.
Business visits, conferences and networking
The event begins with business visits on 2 November. The following two days will be held at the Convention Centre Dublin, featuring keynote presentations, panel discussions, networking and matchmaking activities. Delegates can also attend the Schumpeter Innovation in Enterprise Lecture and the European SME Week Reception at Dublin Castle.
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ATIM highlights the value of advanced manufacturing clusters
The Advanced Technologies in Manufacturing (ATIM) Cluster is encouraging Irish manufacturers, technology providers, educators and researchers to take part. Hosted by Technological University of the Shannon, ATIM is Ireland’s national advanced manufacturing cluster and has grown to more than 100 members since its establishment in 2021.
Its membership spans manufacturing companies, technology providers, research organisations, education bodies and enterprise support agencies. ATIM is also one of the pilot clusters in Ireland’s International Cluster Impact Programme, which supports industry-led collaboration and stronger participation in global value chains.
Enterprise Ireland said strong international connections are vital for ambitious Irish companies seeking to scale globally. The Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment has also stressed the importance of collaboration, innovation and sustainable economic growth as Europe responds to an increasingly challenging international environment.
The event’s wider relevance extends across Ireland’s enterprise ecosystem, including Enterprise Ireland, IDA Ireland, InterTradeIreland, Technological University of the Shannon and research and education partners. It complements the work of agencies supporting productivity, skills, investment and market expansion.
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How to register for the Dublin event
Organisations interested in attending can register through the European Commission’s event portal. Capacity is limited, registrations will be reviewed by organisers and attendance is subject to approval. In general, only one participant per organisation will be accepted.
Register interest for the SME & Clusters Assembly 2026
Why the assembly matters for Irish SMEs
For Irish SMEs, the assembly is more than a three-day conference. It provides access to potential partners, investors, researchers and public-sector decision-makers, while giving companies a platform to discuss the barriers affecting growth.
Cluster-based cooperation can help businesses share knowledge, access specialist expertise and respond collectively to challenges that may be difficult to tackle alone. For advanced manufacturing in particular, stronger links between industry, education and research can support innovation, workforce development and long-term resilience.
Key takeaway
The SME Clusters Assembly 2026 will give Irish companies a direct route into European enterprise networks while showcasing Ireland’s manufacturing and innovation strengths. Businesses interested in international partnerships, technology and sustainable growth should consider registering early, subject to the organisers’ approval.
Article/Image Courtesy: Enterprise Ireland
