Founded in 1999 by Bill McLaughlin, the Irish American Business Chamber & Network was created to strengthen business ties between the Philadelphia Region and Ireland.
Our History
IABCN History
Founded in 1999 by Bill McLaughlin, a Philadelphia business leader with deep Irish roots, the Irish American Business Chamber & Network (IABCN) was created to strengthen business ties between the Philadelphia region and Ireland through warm introductions, focused convenings, and practical follow through. What began with a single meeting at the Union League grew into a 300 + member driven community that has connected leaders across industries and continents for more than 25 years.
Founding Snapshot
In June 1999, Bill McLaughlin gathered about 40 Irish and Irish American colleagues at the Union League to launch what would become the Irish American Business Chamber & Network. Their mission was simple: to support Ireland by encouraging U.S. companies to invest there and to deepen business ties between Ireland and the Philadelphia region.
Inaugural Ambassador Awards
A winter snowstorm almost derailed the day at the Union League. With staff sent home, the event was nearly canceled, but Bill McLaughlin insisted the luncheon go ahead, as the Irish Ambassador to the United States was already en route. About 95 guests braved the weather, and the Union League’s administrative team stepped in to serve lunch. That memorable afternoon became the Chamber’s signature annual gathering, now known as the Ambassador Awards Luncheon, celebrating leaders who advance Ireland–U.S. business ties. Today, more than 600 people attend this flagship event each year, still proudly hosted at the Union League.
25th Anniversary
On June 13, 2024, Philadelphia’s Irish American Business Chamber & Network marked 25 years of building connections between the Greater Philadelphia region and the island of Ireland with a celebration at the Philadelphia Cricket Club. The evening looked back on a quarter-century of member-driven collaboration while setting sights on the next 25 years.
Thanks to Our Sponsors
We extend heartfelt thanks to our sponsors for their continued support across the years. Their commitment helps us convene leaders, create meaningful introductions, and deliver real outcomes for the Philadelphia–Ireland business community. We are grateful for our sponsor’s partnership as we build on 25 years of momentum and look ahead to the next chapter.