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Ireland to host Atlantic Summit Galway 2026 during EU Presidency
Advancing Europe’s Ocean Research, Skills and Innovation Agenda during Ireland’s EU Presidency
On World Oceans Day, Atlantic Technological University, Marine Institute and University of Galway with the support of the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science have announced plans for the Atlantic Summit Galway 2026, an international conference taking place on 8–9 October 2026 in Galway, Ireland.
Held during Ireland’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union, the Summit will bring together leaders and stakeholders from across ocean research, policy, industry and society to shape the future of the Atlantic within Europe’s ocean agenda.
Aligned with the theme “Advancing Europe’s Ocean Research, Skills and Innovation Agenda during Ireland’s EU Presidency,” the Summit will focus on identifying critical priorities for Atlantic Ocean research, examining future skills needs, and fostering innovation to support a resilient and sustainable ocean economy.
At a pivotal moment for ocean sustainability and cooperation, the Atlantic Summit will contribute to key priorities under the EU Ocean Pact, reinforcing Europe’s leadership in ocean science and capability, and strengthening collaboration across the Atlantic region.
Of the announcement Dr Orla Flynn, ATU President said:
On World Oceans Day we are reminded of the fragility of the natural world and the critical importance of the Atlantic to our climate, communities and economy. As a Technological University with campuses across the West and North West region, ATU is proud to announce the Atlantic Summit Galway 2026. This summit, during Ireland’s presidency of the council of the European Union, will bring together leaders and expertise from across Europe and beyond to drive progress in ocean knowledge and innovation, positioning the Atlantic and Galway at the heart of Europe’s ocean future.
The two-day programme will feature high-level plenary sessions, strategic dialogues and collaborative discussions, complemented by a series of scientific and societal side events that will showcase cutting-edge research, innovation in practice, and community engagement across the Atlantic.
Galway, located on Ireland’s Atlantic coast and home to a vibrant marine research and innovation ecosystem, provides an ideal setting for this important gathering.
Further details, including the programme and registration, will be announced in the coming weeks.
For media enquiries, contact:
Aidan Haughey
Communications Manager
Tel: 086 086 6913
E: aidan.haughey@atu.ie
