F.A.Q.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What is WIRE?
WIRE stands for the Week of Innovative Regions in Europe. It is a European conference that brings together people working in research, innovation, education, business and regional development to share ideas and explore how regions across Europe can become more competitive, skilled and resilient.
WIRE takes place every two years under the rotating Presidency of the Council of the European Union. Previous editions have been hosted under different EU Presidencies, including Hungary in 2024. In 2026, WIRE comes to Ireland as part of Ireland’s Presidency of the Council of the EU.
WIRE 2026 will take place in Limerick, Ireland on 2–3 December 2026. It is a two-day conference featuring keynote speakers, discussions and opportunities to connect with people from across Europe. The event will focus on how collaboration, innovation and investment can help build stronger, more competitive and resilient regions.
In simple terms, WIRE is a place for people from across Europe to come together, share what is working in their regions, learn from each other and build new connections and partnerships.
Who is WIRE for?
WIRE 2026 is aimed at policymakers, researchers, educators, businesses, regional development organisations and other stakeholders working across research, innovation, skills, enterprise and regional development. The conference provides an opportunity to exchange ideas, share best practice and build connections with organisations and individuals from across Europe.
When and where is the event?
The event will take place December 2nd to the 3rd, 2026. It will be hosted at the Millennium Theatre, Technological University of the Shannon, Limerick, Ireland.
Partners & Sponsorships
WIRE 2026 is an official event of Ireland’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union. Co-funded by the European Commission through Horizon Europe, the conference is delivered by the Technological University of the Shannon in partnership with the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science (DFHERIS) and Enterprise Ireland, with additional support from Fáilte Ireland.
Registration & Programme
How do I register?
Please register your interest here.
Step 1: Create a Presidency Registration Account
If you have not previously registered for an event taking place as part of Ireland’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union, you will need to create a Presidency registration account.
Step 2: Submit your expression of interest
Once you have created your account, you can register your interest in attending WIRE 2026.
Please note that registering your interest does not guarantee attendance. All expressions of interest will be reviewed in line with the event registration process.
Successful applicants will receive confirmation of their attendance, along with further event information, by email.
Do I need a visa to attend WIRE 2026?
WIRE 2026 is an official event of Ireland’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union and will take place in Limerick, Ireland.
Visa requirements depend on your nationality. Ireland is a member of the European Union but is not part of the Schengen Area, so the entry requirements for Ireland may differ from those for other EU or Schengen countries.
Attendees travelling from the EU/EEA generally do not require a visa to travel to Ireland. Attendees from outside the EU/EEA should check the Irish visa requirements that apply to their nationality and circumstances and should allow sufficient time to complete the application process, where required.
Check whether you need an Irish visa and find information on how to apply: Irish Government – Visas for Ireland
If you require supporting documentation for your visa application, please contact the WIRE 2026 team at wire2026@tus.ie following confirmation of your attendance.
Please note that registration or confirmation of attendance at WIRE 2026 does not guarantee visa approval. Attendees are responsible for ensuring that they meet the entry requirements for Ireland.
What outcomes can I expect from WIRE 2026?
WIRE 2026 will provide opportunities to:
– Build new business connections and expand your professional network.
– Explore cross-collaboration and partnership opportunities.
– Gain insights into the latest industry trends and developments.
– Share knowledge, ideas and best practice with others across the industry.
– Take away practical insights and ideas that can be applied to your work.
Who are the speakers?
The speaker programme is currently being finalised, with additional keynote speakers and panellists to be announced in the lead-up to the conference.
Is the event conducted in English? If so, are translation services provided?
Yes. The event will be conducted in English.
Accessibility requirements will be collected during registration. Where additional support is required, such as sign language interpretation or other language or accessibility services, these will be arranged as needed.
Will the event be livestreamed or recorded?
Yes. Keynote sessions will be livestreamed and recorded, and recordings will be made available on YouTube.
Will media be present?
Yes. Media will be present at the WIRE Conference.
Will photography & filming take place?
Yes, both filming & photography will take place at the WIRE conference.
Is parking available?
Yes, limited parking is available at the venue. Additional parking will be available at the Gaelic grounds, with a shuttle bus service operating to and from Coonagh.
Is WiFi available?
Yes, WiFi will be available. Access will be circulated before the event.
Will food and refreshments be provided?
Yes. Lunch and refreshments will be provided throughout the event.
Can dietary requirements be accommodated?
Yes. Dietary requirements will be collected during registration to ensure suitable options can be provided.
Who do I contact if I have any questions?
Please contact wire2026@tus.ie for more information.
Queries regarding the registration platform please contact: EUpresidency.accreditation@dfa.ie
