From San Francisco to LA, Archibald showcases the north to US investors

Date published: 9 March 2026

The Minister begins her visit in San Francisco, where she and senior Invest NI officials will meet major US investors, business leaders and industry networks. 

Speaking from the West Coast, Dr Archibald said: 

“This visit offers an important opportunity to demonstrate the north’s strengths as a competitive, innovative and strategically positioned location for US investment. 

“The US remains one of our most significant sources of inward investment, with a strong base of US‑owned companies operating across the north, including Californian investors such as Seagate, Proofpoint and Imperva. 

“Dual market access, deep sectoral strengths, a skilled talent base and a resilient business culture all contribute to the north’s continued appeal to US investors.” 

During her time in San Francisco, Dr Archibald will deliver keynote speeches at an Invest NI business leaders’ dinner and a gaming industry lunch with Ulster University and Studio Ulster. She will also officially open Invest NI’s new office location in the city, strengthening the agency’s on‑the‑ground presence in the US market. 

Anne Beggs, Chief Commercial Officer at Invest NI said: 

“US companies play a vital role in Northern Ireland’s economy, investing in key sectors such as financial services, cybersecurity, technology and advanced manufacturing. Our new office location in San Francisco will strengthen the work of our US team who are working hard to identify US firms looking to establish or expand operations and introduce them to Northern Ireland as a potential location. 

“Many of our leading US investors, including Citi and Aflac, continue to reinvest and grow their operations in Northern Ireland, demonstrating confidence in our region. We remain committed to fostering new partnerships, driving investment, and ensuring our economy continues to thrive on the global stage.” 

The Minister will then travel to Los Angeles where she will address US travel and media partners at a Tourism Ireland breakfast event, highlighting our growing profile as a compelling destination for American visitors.  She said: 

“Increasing US visitor numbers is essential to strengthening our tourism economy, and I’m committed to driving that growth.” 

Whilst in LA the Minister will also, along with NI Screen, promote our world‑class screen sector during a series of meetings with key figures from major US studios.