The Tulsa Irish Fest is well-known for celebrating Irish history with artisan vendors, traditional food, and upbeat musical performances.
What makes the festival special is the business conference, which combines discussions about how to strengthen Oklahoma-Ireland political and commercial connections through cultural exchanges.
State representatives, corporate executives, and specialists in international commerce were among the speakers from both sides who attended the annual conference, which was a part of the Tulsa Irish Fest. The conference aimed to identify new trade, investment, and collaboration opportunities with the overall subject of creating and encouraging cooperation.
Building Stronger Business and Political Ties between Oklahoma and Ireland
At the conference, the significance of establishing close relationships between Tulsa and Ireland was highlighted. The discussions included both international trade and the political systems that encourage business interactions. The speakers shared how the growing Oklahoma-Ireland relationship is impacting a variety of industries, such as international trade, insurance, and tourism.
In his opening remarks, Oklahoma Lt. Gov. Matt Pinnell emphasized the state’s dedication to international ties and the role that tourism and trade play in economic growth. State Insurance Commissioner Glen Mulready spoke after Pinnell about the regulatory environment that businesses must go through while expanding their cross-border activities.
St. Sen. Kristen Thompson, chair of the Economic Development, Workforce, and Tourism Committee, spoke enthusiastically about the legislative projects being undertaken to establish Oklahoma as a friendly destination for foreign companies. The establishment of the Oklahoma Ireland Trade Commission, a significant step in formalizing and strengthening the commercial ties between Oklahoma and Ireland, was one of the highlights of her speech.
Insights from Business Leaders
The involvement of Oklahoma-based companies with a significant presence in Ireland was one of the conference’s main features. Michael Scharf, CEO of Gravitate, and Jim Kiser, CEO of CapSpire, both discussed their personal experiences growing their businesses across the Atlantic. Their discussions focused on the difficulties and advantages of doing business in Ireland as well as the opportunities for Oklahoma companies to enter European markets.
Christopher Lopp, an attorney with licenses to practice in Oklahoma, Texas, England, and Wales, discussed international legal matters during the conference. He owns a business called “Funky Brims,” which sells premium hats imported from Ireland. Combining his legal expertise with business experience, Lopp discussed the difficulties of following trade regulations and doing business between the United States and Europe.
The Role of Art and Culture in Economic Development
The conference also emphasized Ireland’s cultural influence. Uptown Artists Group Chief Talent Officer David Shaughnessy discussed the increasing number of Irish performers in the American entertainment field. As a representative for Irish artists and entertainers, he discussed the ways in which cultural exports can boost the economy and create closer ties with other countries.
Business and culture can thrive together, according to Irish singer and entrepreneur Sina Theil. She talked about how both aspects of her profession help her build relationships with people and how her artistic interests complement her business goals.
Future Opportunities for Collaboration
The Irish Government Panel Discussion concluded by outlining the activities of important Irish organizations, including the Irish Consulate, Enterprise Ireland, and IDA Ireland. These organizations assist American companies looking to expand in Ireland as well as Irish companies looking to expand into the United States.
The conference concluded with an emphasis on Oklahoma and Ireland’s expanding business partnership. Working together, establishing reciprocal economic opportunities, and establishing strong economic and cultural ties were all topics covered by the speakers.
The Tulsa Irish Fest Business Conference offered an opportunity for networking, international business, and learning more about the connections between Oklahoma and Ireland. Both Oklahoma and Ireland are continuing to look for opportunities that are mutually beneficial, similar to the Oklahoma Ireland Trade Commission continue.
