The number of workers employed in Enterprise Ireland-backed companies in Galway rose by eight per cent over the last twelve months – with 637 net job gains across the city and county.

The state body’s annual report revealed that there are now 8,651 employees here in EI-backed businesses, reflecting a level of growth across the entire country in 2022.

Nationally, the Government agency responsible for developing Irish business globally announced the creation of 19,660 new jobs in client companies in 2022. That’s a net increase of 10,841 jobs created last year.

Enterprise Ireland companies now employ 218,178 people, an increase of five per cent on the 2021 outturn – with 68 per cent of these jobs outside Dublin.

Meabh Conaghan, Enterprise Ireland’s Regional Director for the West Region described 2022 as ‘a strong year’.

“The West Region performed strongly, with employment increasing by eight per cent, which represents 1,088 net new jobs in the region,” she said.

“In total, companies backed by Enterprise Ireland created 637 net new jobs last year in Galway.

“Supporting Irish-owned companies to achieve greater scale and expand their global footprint is a priority for Enterprise Ireland in 2023 and we are committed to supporting Irish companies on their journey to become global leaders in their field.

“This will ensure that Irish enterprise, including those in the West, continue to create and sustain jobs, providing a platform for strong economic growth into the future.

“In 2023 Enterprise Ireland will be working with start-up and established companies in the West to grow and continue to create employment.

“Working with colleagues in the Local Enterprise Offices and our partners in the third-level sector we are determined to continue this positive trend for enterprise and employment in the West,” she added.

The report shows that employment increased across Enterprise Ireland’s three core economic sectors, with Technology & Services up eright per cent, Industrial and Life Sciences up five per cent, and Food and Sustainability showing a three per cent rise.

Strong employment growth was reported in specific sub sectors such as:

Climate, Sustainability and Agritech (+13%)

Digital Technology (+9%),

High Tech Construction and Housing (+6%)

Fintech, Financial and Business Services (+6%)

The Life Sciences and Engineering sectors both saw five per cent employment growth.