Cross-Border Careers Initiative Launched
Business groups have introduced a new program to connect students in border regions with regional employers.
Updated on Sept. 21, 2026 in Internships
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Business in the Community Ireland and Business in the Community Northern Ireland have launched the Cross-Border Careers initiative. Supported by the Shared Island Civic Society Fund, the program aims to improve social mobility for students aged 16 to 18.
Why it matters
The initiative seeks to strengthen connections between schools and local businesses in border communities. By facilitating workplace visits and roundtables, the program helps broaden career prospects for young people in the region.
The initiative serves students aged 16 to 18 across border counties including Armagh, Monaghan, Fermanagh, Cavan, Tyrone, and Donegal. It is backed by the Shared Island Civic Society Fund to support regional career development.
The players
Business in the Community Ireland
This is a non-profit organization that works with companies to develop corporate social responsibility programs.
Business in the Community Northern Ireland
This organization focuses on business-led initiatives that promote responsible and sustainable practices in the region.
Combilift
This is a global manufacturer of material handling solutions that is hosting students for workplace visits.
Kingspan
This company is a global leader in high-performance insulation and building envelope solutions.
Shared Island Civic Society Fund
This government-supported fund provides resources for initiatives that foster cooperation across the island of Ireland.
The details
Students from paired schools participate in workplace visits at local businesses like Combilift and Kingspan. The initiative also includes a business roundtable and a career showcase webinar to foster cross-border professional networks.
Timeline
September 29, 2026: A business roundtable is held in Enniskillen.
November 17, 2026: Students visit Combilift for a workplace experience.
Late 2026: A career showcase webinar is planned for participants.
Market Landscape
This program aligns with the goals of the Shared Island Civic Society Fund to foster cross-border social integration. It follows a pattern of corporate-led efforts to bridge regional divides by investing in the local talent pipeline.
Students aged 16 to 18 in targeted border counties gain direct access to professional work environments and corporate leaders. This program provides these participants with early career exposure that could influence their future educational and employment paths.
The takeaway
This initiative underscores the importance of public-private partnerships in addressing regional career disparities. By bridging the gap between school and the workplace, the program offers students a tangible advantage in exploring potential future careers.
What happens next
A career showcase webinar is scheduled to take place in late 2026 to provide further opportunities for student participants.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest developments in Internships.
Source note: This article includes information reported by NorthernSound.
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