Gary O'Meara

I’ve spent most of my career building businesses, creating opportunities, and supporting people who want to make a difference. Whether it’s founding startups, designing innovation districts, or advising national and global entrepreneurship networks, my focus has always been on enabling growth - with purpose, integrity and long-term impact.

I’m currently CEO of Meath Enterprise and Managing Director of the Boyne Valley Food Innovation District, where we’re developing a unique ecosystem that brings together food, ag-tech, digital innovation and entrepreneurship to support regional development with global ambition. I also chair CEAI - Ireland’s Enterprise Hub Network - where we’re working to connect and empower 200+ enterprise hubs nationwide to unlock potential in every community.

As Founder and Managing Director of GEN Ireland, I’m focused on ensuring Ireland plays a leading role in the global entrepreneurship movement. My ambition is to connect Irish regions - especially the Mid-East - with like-minded innovation ecosystems around the world to foster inclusive, impactful collaboration.

Over the years, I’ve led companies across sectors - logistics, recruitment, manufacturing, PR, media, events, food innovation and more - and worked with governments, startups, corporates and communities across Ireland, the UK, Europe and the US. I’ve studied business, law, leadership, strategy and ecosystem development through TU Dublin, UCD, IPA, Harvard and MIT, but my biggest lessons have come from showing up, listening, failing, learning, evolving and always moving forward with enthusiasm, passion and purpose.

I’m passionate about student entrepreneurship. I designed and delivered the Student Enterprise Challenge for over a decade, introducing second-level students to entrepreneurship in a hands-on, confidence-building way. I continue to work closely with third-level institutions to support students in becoming more entrepreneurial, work-ready and purpose-driven.

I invest in property, crypto, startups and early-stage ideas - but most of all, I invest in people. Whether it’s funding, mentoring, consulting or collaborating, I back potential. I believe we all have the power to turn ideas into action and dreams into reality. With AI and digital tech levelling the playing field globally, there’s never been a better time to create, to lead, and to build something meaningful. There are no more excuses. Now it’s about getting as many people as possible off the sidelines and into the game.

If you're building something that matters - or want to - I’m always open to a chat.