Killorglin is a town in County Kerry, Ireland. As of the 2022 census, the town’s population was 2,163. Killorglin is on the Ring of Kerry tourist route famed for its stunning scenery, mountain walks and outdoor activities. Fexco, a major financial services company, was founded in Killorglin in 1981 and is still headquartered in the village. Innovating from the edge of Europe for 40 years. Pharmaceutical firms Temmler and Astellas have small plants in Killorglin, a 100m wind turbine was erected at Astellas along with solar panel fields at Fexco and Astellas. The aim is to help shape a better future for generations to come, working together to promote sustainable tourism, create new products and services for economic growth and accelerated job creation and connecting entrepreneurs and innovators to accelerate business growth.

KEY PROJECTS & FOCUS AREAS

Killorglin, County Kerry, is rapidly establishing itself as a nexus for circular bioeconomy initiatives, driving sustainable development, innovation and entrepreneurship.

A key driver of this development is the RDI Hub, an award-winning innovation center fostering business growth. This €21 million investment, led by Fexco, Kerry County Council, and Munster Technological University, has positioned Kerry as a globally connected innovation hotspot. The RDI Hub provides state-of-the-art facilities and a network of mentors, investors, and researchers, creating an environment for scaling businesses and fostering collaboration.

The Circular Bioeconomy Research Group (CIRCBIO) at Munster Technological University collaborates with local industries to convert renewable biological resources and waste into value-added products, focusing on sectors like marine, agriculture, and waste-to-value. Additionally, the Circular Bioeconomy Cluster South-West, initiated by MTU and Enterprise Ireland, strengthens collaboration among enterprises, researchers, and government bodies, supporting members in research and development, project partnerships, talent cultivation, and market connections. Educational outreach is also a priority, exemplified by the ‘HABERDASHERY’ program led by Ireland’s Knowledge Centre for Carbon, Climate, and Community Action (IKC3) and CIRCBIO, engaging over 300 senior cycle students in circular and sustainable design challenges. Through these integrated projects and focus areas, Killorglin is positioning itself as a leader in innovation and sustainability, fostering a dynamic ecosystem that supports business growth and sustainable development.

ONGOING EFFORTS & ACTIONS

Killorglin is actively advancing innovation, entrepreneurship, and local development through key initiatives in the circular bioeconomy and sustainable business.

The Circular Bioeconomy Research Group (CIRCBIO) at Munster Technological University (MTU) develops bio-based solutions by converting renewable resources and waste into high-value products. Projects include Biorefinery Glas, Europe’s first on-farm small-scale grass biorefinery, and BBioNets, which helps farmers and foresters adopt bio-based technologies to reduce emissions and promote biomass reuse.

The Circular Bioeconomy Cluster South-West, launched by MTU and Enterprise Ireland, fosters industry-government-research collaborations. It supports businesses in marine, agriculture, and waste-to-value sectors through research, funding, and market access. The cluster also leads BioDirect, the first all-island initiative to integrate bio-based products into packaging, construction, textiles, and agriculture.

Local businesses are central to this ecosystem. BioAtlantis, a biotechnology company, develops solutions to enhance crop, animal, and human health. Réalt na Mara Shellfish, based in Cromane, promotes sustainable aquaculture in Castlemaine Harbour. West Kerry Dairy Farmers’ Sustainable Energy Community (SEC): Over 100 farmers on the Dingle Peninsula have formed this SEC to explore energy-efficient practices in agriculture. Their initiatives include adopting renewable energy sources and improving energy efficiency on farms, contributing to the sustainability of local food production. These enterprises, along with initiatives like the RDI Hub, position Killorglin as a leader in innovation and sustainability, driving long-term economic and environmental progress.

LOCAL IMPACT

Killorglin has significantly impacted the local community through job creation, business growth, and sustainability initiatives. Fexco, a key employer, has created over 300 jobs and established the €21 million RDI Hub, fostering entrepreneurship, innovation, and global collaboration has created over 250 high-skilled jobs and supported the development of 29 new products and services. Astellas, employing 300 staff, manufactures life-saving medicines and has achieved a 98% reduction in CO₂ emissions while investing in clean energy solutions. Both companies have built solar panel fields, supporting the region’s transition to renewable energy.

The Circular Bioeconomy Cluster South-West and CIRCBIO at MTU drive sustainable economic growth. Projects like Biorefinery Glas and BBioNets help farmers adopt bio-based technologies, reducing waste and increasing efficiency. The BioDirect initiative integrates sustainable materials into packaging, construction, and agriculture, supporting a circular economy.

Local enterprises such as BioAtlantis and Réalt na Mara Shellfish champion sustainability by promoting regenerative agriculture, reducing waste, and strengthening regional supply chains. The West Kerry Dairy Farmers’ Sustainable Energy Community is also advancing clean energy in agriculture.

Through innovation, sustainability, and collaboration, Killorglin has become a dynamic economic hub, attracting talent, fostering entrepreneurship, and ensuring long-term environmental and social benefits.

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SPECIFIC CHALLENGES

Housing: Challenges to find staff and members accommodation.

People: Staff recruitment and retention, skills shortages and competitive salaries.

Cost of Living: Inflation and energy costs (light and heat), council rates.

State Supports: Share options scheme and investment relief needed for startups to secure investment.

Partnerships: National and international collaboration key to long-term success.

Killorglin has significant opportunities for growth in renewable energy, agritech innovation, and the circular bioeconomy. Expanding solar and wind energy projects, building on the solar fields developed by Fexco and Astellas, could position the region as a leader in clean energy.

In agritech, precision farming and bio-based solutions offer potential for increasing productivity while reducing environmental impact. Strengthening collaboration between farmers, researchers, and businesses through the Circular Bioeconomy Cluster South-West and CIRCBIO can accelerate the adoption of low-carbon and waste-to-value technologies.

Tourism and food sustainability are also key growth areas. Leveraging Killorglin’s natural assets, local businesses can enhance eco-tourism and sustainable food production. Investments in biodegradable packaging, sustainable aquaculture, and plant-based food innovations can create new markets.

Further investment in digital transformation, including remote work hubs and AI-driven solutions, will attract global talent, ensuring Killorglin’s long-term economic and environmental resilience.

  • Killorglin Chamber Alliance: This organization unites businesses, sports clubs, arts, and community groups to foster economic growth and community development. 
  • Reeks District: A placemaking initiative promoting sustainable tourism and outdoor recreation in the MacGillycuddy Reeks area, enhancing local economic opportunities. 
  • Munster Technological University (MTU) & Enterprise Ireland: Supporting research, innovation, and the Circular Bioeconomy Cluster South-West.
  • Fexco, Kerry County Council, Munster Technological University (MTU) & Enterprise Ireland: Driving economic growth through the RDI Hub and renewable energy projects.
  • Ireland’s Knowledge Centre for Carbon, Climate, and Community Action (IKC3): Promoting sustainability and bioeconomy innovation.

EU Horizon & EIP-Agri Projects: Funding initiatives like Biorefinery Glas, BBioNets, and the MacGillycuddy Reeks EIP to advance sustainable agriculture.

SUSTAINABILITY GOALS

Killorglin and its surrounding areas are actively engaged in initiatives that promote sustainable food systems, circular bioeconomy, and rural resilience.

MacGillycuddy Reeks European Innovation Partnership (EIP) Project: This project focuses on enhancing the sustainability and economic viability of farming in the MacGillycuddy Reeks. By implementing practical actions and innovative solutions, it aims to protect biodiversity and improve habitat conditions in this Natura 2000 area. 

Kerry Earth Education Project (KEEP): Based at Gortbrack Organic Farm, KEEP develops and manages sustainable organic garden projects across County Kerry, including in Killorglin. These initiatives educate communities on organic farming practices, contributing to local food security and environmental awareness. 

Killarney Urban Farm: Located in nearby Killarney, this initiative is Ireland’s first hospitality urban farm, cultivating salads, herbs, and vegetables for local establishments. It exemplifies sustainable urban agriculture and supports the local food system.

BioAtlantis has joined a €2.69 million EU project to develop drought solutions for agriculture, exploring innovative methods to help farmed crops survive prolonged dry spells by harnessing natural processes. 

The Kerry Eco-Social Farming European Innovation Partnership 2022/23 involves local farmers in delivering biodiversity benefits, reflecting the strategy’s emphasis on environmental sustainability. 

These projects, among others, demonstrate the region’s commitment to fostering sustainable practices, enhancing local food production, and building resilient rural communities.