Within Munster Technological University, the Faculty of Business has established a suite of research groups that not only contribute significantly to the University’s strategic priorities, but also drive regional, national, and international initiatives addressing urgent societal and economic challenges.
Circular Economy for Regenerative Tourism (CERT)
Established in 2022, and builds research capacity in circular economy and regenerative tourism. It advances resilient, sustainable tourism through education, applied research, publications and industry collaboration across regional, national and international contexts. CERT has secured over €1.3m in EU funding to support tourism SMEs, micro-enterprises and destination organisations in adopting regenerative practices, repositioning tourism as a force for positive environmental, social and economic impact. Regenerative tourism promotes climate action, responsible visitors, thriving host communities, strong local identity, and long-term business sustainability and profitability
V-LINC
Nationally and internationally recognised MTU research group specialising in industry cluster analysis and inter-firm linkages, using data-driven methodologies to inform regional innovation, public policy and competitive strategy. Its work has shaped Irish and EU cluster policy, including contributions to Ireland’s emerging International Impact Clustering Programme. Through the Interreg Europe-funded Accelerate GOT project, V-LINC leads stakeholder engagement and policy co-creation in collaboration with InterTradelreland, DETE and European cluster agencies, reinforcing MTU’s role as a research-informed University influencing regional and national economic policy.
Hincks Centre for Entrepreneurship Excellence
Founded in 2013, the Hincks Centre for Entrepreneurship Excellence is embedded within the Faculty of Business and recognised for its leadership in inclusive, sustainable and student-centred entrepreneurship research. It connects theory and practice through curriculum integration, postgraduate supervision, community engagement and policy development, positioning entrepreneurship as a driver of social and economic resilience. Operating on a self-funded model, the Centre has secured over €3.8 million in national and EU competitive funding, including flagship projects such as WeRin and RuralFemmes, and continues to strengthen entrepreneurial capacity in alignment with MTU’s strategic ambitions for innovation and graduate readiness.
