[ Cork City Development Plan 2022-2028, Section 15(2) Two-Year Progress Report ]
The City Development Plan supports the continued growth and diversification of the local economy. Cork City Council works closely with IDA Ireland, Enterprise Ireland, University College Cork (UCC), Munster Technological University (MTU) and business representatives to ensure Cork is a global investment location supported by a diverse employment network. Over 30,000 students attend UCC and MTU, many from outside the city and Ireland. MTU and UCC provide access to applied research to the city’s employers through their gateway centres; Nimbus MTU is an example of one centre in the city which provides research and development support to companies who require AI (artificial intelligence), IOT (internet of things) and energy solutions. Many companies will, following engagement with the universities, to develop deeper technology solutions for the home and export markets. [OBJECTIVE 7.4] NEIGHBOURHOOD COMMUNITY ENTERPRISE HUBS [OBJECTIVE 7.7] EDUCATION & SKILLS
Cork as a city has further developed as a UNESCO Learning City through ongoing engagement with the UNESCO Institute of Lifelong Learning and as a leading member of the Global Network of Learning Cities since 2013. In addition to giving presentations in China, Korea, Colombia, Saudi Arabia and Tunisia for UNESCO, Cork was also selected to lead an international city cluster on Learning for Health and Well- being with the Korean city of Osan in 2020-2022. Learning City development in Cork has been co- ordinated by a team based in Cork City Council, as a Lead member of the Steering Group, along with CETB, UCC, MTU, HSE, National Association of Principals and Deputy Principals and other partners including Cork Chamber, Industry and Trade Union representatives.
In 2022, Munster Technological University’s Rubicon Centre established a hub group with the help of Cork City Council and Cork County Council to represent operators of enterprise, co-working and incubation spaces in Cork city and county. The group’s members are drawn from hubs who are owned by private operators, higher education institutions, local authorities and community groups, and meet on a regular basis to share best practice. Hub members work in close partnership with the Local Enterprise Offices (LEOs) and Enterprise Ireland to assist entrepreneurs. Recently, Recreate Shandon CLG, a non-profit enterprise, has secured funding under the Regional Enterprise Innovation Scoping Scheme to explore new uses in the historic Butter Exchange building including an enterprise hub. The economic vibrancy of Cork City provides an attractive destination for work and education opportunities, and the city’s culture and arts framework provide an attractive lifestyle location.
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