Cross-Border Collaboration in Research Culture: A Shared Island Approach to Business Scaling

Authors:  Mrs Amanda Calderwood, Mr Ben Kiely, Ms Pamela Patayon, Dr. Conor Carroll, Professor Kristel Miller, Professor Esther Tippmann

Organisations:  Ulster University, University of Limerick, University of Galway

This Shared-Island research initiative examines business scaling across Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. Reflecting this cross-border context, the research team itself is an ‘all-island’ collaboration, bringing together researchers and supervisors from University of Galway, University of Limerick, and Ulster University. This effort strengthens research culture by fostering interdisciplinary cooperation across institutions and integrating diverse perspectives from different economic, policy, and cultural environments. 

The initiative enhances research culture by connecting researchers across geographic and institutional boundaries. It provides strategic insights into business scaling while fostering cross-border relationships, knowledge exchange, and mutual learning. Researching businesses on both sides of the border allows researchers to compare opportunities and challenges while ensuring cultural sensitivity and regional awareness. 

This research aims to identify key factors enabling sustainable business growth, including general and cross-border-specific enablers and barriers. It also strengthens research culture by promoting interdisciplinary collaboration, academic exchange, and long-term partnerships between institutions. 

Using a qualitative approach, researchers will develop in-depth case studies of scaling businesses. Weekly virtual meetings between researchers facilitate continuous collaboration, while in-person gatherings and conference participation reinforce academic relationships and research impact. 

Currently in the recruitment stage, findings are yet to be evidenced; however, the initiative is already strengthening research culture through active engagement, institutional cooperation, and shared learning experiences. This initiative advances understanding of business scaling while reinforcing the importance of collaborative research culture. By fostering long-term partnerships, it highlights the significance of cross-border cooperation in both academic research and business growth across the island of Ireland.