Dublin: The Crucible
Dublin is cool. And tough as nails. It will survive the current economic tempest, remaining tougher —and we’re betting, cooler— than ever. We’ve dubbed it The Crucible, and for more than a handful of reasons, we’re betting on it withstanding the current economic meltdown while its economy completes its transformation into a technology-rich incubator and exporter.
As Americans, our migration to Ireland is counter-intuitive, perhaps seen as a practically un-American move. Incubate outside our homeland? We’ve started, grown and sold tech businesses on both the East and West Coasts of the US, but why Dublin? In fact, we’ve been drawn there for more than 20 years — for travel, for sport, for friendship and for business partnerships. This is a longterm love affair, but not one blinded by our love of Guinness, salt & vinegar crisps or Colcannon, for that matter.
Unlike Arthur Miller’s “Crucible,” Dublin’s offers a haven for the contrarian expat. For tech startups, it offers a uniquely cooperative environment that fosters intimacy, collaboration and mindshare. To that, add easy bandwidth, choice office space and an abundance of true-grit rebelliousness. It’s not unusual to see a successful game developer (think: Steve Collins of Swrve.com or Alan Duggan of TribalCity.com) offering expertise to fellow developers — in marketing, recruitment, design, etc. — as a kindred spirit. Whether the chemistry works or sparks fly, the churning results in something greater. The crucible both contains the interaction and sets it free.
How can a country with a population of 4.5 million stake claim to 80 million Irish, worldwide? Perhaps the familiar cycle will repeat itself again: crisis, endurance, growth… and export. The government is committed to making technology the next Irish Diaspora.
Mobility is often driven by economic necessity, mixed with a healthy dose of wanderlust. We understand wanderlust. It’s why even though we’re currently living in Paris, our sights are someplace else, on Dublin. Americans in Paris, looking beyond our horizon, wherever that may be. Maybe it’s part of the Irish heritage that resonates with us, or lack of one, although none of us is Irish.
Another resonance: As adolescent nations, the US and Ireland share a restlessness. Endless questioning, both optimistic and passionate, while still trying to figure out how to become who we want to be. And sometimes, all we know is: We don’t want to be our parents.
Throughout our near 20-year partnership, the contrarians among us keep things heated. It can get messy. Typically, though, the contrarian keeps the thinking outside the box. The contrarian rejects assumptions and, in many cases, rules. The contrarian takes risks. Without a doubt, these have been our best hires. We’re looking for rebels to help with our cause.
Dublin the Crucible beckons.
Andrea Ravenet, SVP
