This morning, a significant milestone was reached for the startup communities of Galway, Ireland, and Gradignan, France, as Mayor Michel Labardin of Gradignan and Mary Rodgers, CEO of The PorterShed, signed an agreement establishing an innovative “Passport” system for tech startups. This partnership, celebrated at PorterShed’s Market Street location, will connect the two cities’ tech ecosystems, allowing startups from each location to access coworking spaces abroad, fostering international growth and collaboration.
The “Passport” system offers a unique opportunity for startups in Galway and Gradignan to work from each other’s coworking spaces for designated periods at no charge, reducing the costs associated with expanding into new markets. The initiative allows tech entrepreneurs from both regions to immerse themselves in a different business environment, access new networks, and explore potential partnerships abroad.
A Strategic Collaboration for Innovation and Growth
Founded in 2016, The PorterShed has become a vibrant hub of innovation in Galway, hosting over 60 enterprises and helping create more than 850 jobs. La Canopée, established in 2015, is located in the historic Château de l’Ermitage in Gradignan and supports a diverse range of entrepreneurs, with a particular focus on female-led businesses.
This partnership marks a strategic alignment, as both coworking spaces are deeply committed to supporting innovation and entrepreneurship. The “Passport” system, designed as a reciprocal exchange program, offers a week of free coworking access to startups, including access to meeting rooms, office resources, and networking events in both locations.
Renaud Delbru, Co-Founder of Siren, an internationally recognised investigation tech company, founded in Galway, is one of the key members of this initiative. Renaud embodies the spirit of cross-cultural innovation that both cities aim to foster. Renaud completed his PhD in Computer Science, specialising in AI, at the University of Galway. His entrepreneurial journey in Galway’s vibrant startup environment has inspired him deeply and his story exemplifies the kind of international connection that this partnership seeks to promote.
Mary Rodgers, CEO of The PorterShed, remarked at the signing, “This partnership with La Canopée embodies our vision of supporting Galway’s startups on a global level. The ‘Passport’ system gives our companies a pathway to expand internationally, without the need for a costly setup, and fosters invaluable connections”.
Mayor Michel Labardin of Gradignan with Claire Rivenc City Councillor in charge of Foreign Relationships added, “By formalising this partnership with The PorterShed, we are creating a gateway for innovation and business growth across our regions. This initiative will not only expand opportunities for our startups but also strengthen the cultural and business ties between Gradignan and Galway.”
Renaud Delbru, Co-Founder and Chief Scientific Officer of Siren noted, “It gives me enormous pleasure to create a bridge between the two locations that are most important in my personal and professional life. As a tech founder, I can see how this partnership can unlock potential on a much larger scale by enabling entrepreneurs to explore new markets, leverage proven frameworks and attract talent.”
Details of the Partnership
Under the new agreement, both The PorterShed and La Canopée will host up to five companies each year. Startups will gain access to coworking resources, meeting rooms, and networking opportunities in each city, reducing costs and encouraging cross-border collaboration.
The agreement is effective for five years, with the possibility of renewal, and will be promoted through both organisations to encourage startup participation.
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