Mayor Attends World Class by Nature Event Celebrating Collaboration, Innovation and Regional Growth

Business leaders, educators, innovators and sporting figures from across the North West region gathered at the North West 200 Championship Marquee last week for the inaugural World Class by Nature Live 2026, a flagship event celebrating regional ambition, collaboration and innovation.

Held in partnership with Causeway Chamber of Commerce, the event was attended and addressed by Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens, Councillor Oliver McMullan, and brought together representatives from business, education, sport and the wider region to explore opportunities for growth and collaboration across the Causeway Coast and Glens.

Hosted by BBC presenter Stephen Watson, guests heard inspiring insights from an outstanding panel including former Ireland rugby international Darren Cave, British Superbike rider Glenn Irwin, Irish rally champion Callum Devine and Antrim hurling legend Neil McManus, with discussions focusing on leadership, resilience and high performance.

The evening also Showcased the Action Plan of the Causeway Coast and Glens Local Economic Partnership, a collaborative initiative established by Council with support from the Department for the Economy and Invest NI to drive locally led economic development and improve regional balance. Backed by £4.5 million through the Regional Balance Fund, the Action Plan will support business growth, skills development, innovation and sustainable economic growth across the region over the next two years.

The event showcased the importance of collaboration between local government, business, education and regional stakeholders, with contributions from Ulster University, Northern Regional College and North West Regional College highlighting the role of education and innovation in supporting future economic success and retaining talent within the North West.

Speaking following the event, Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens, Councillor Oliver McMullan said: “It was a real privilege to attend and speak at World Class by Nature and to see so many people from right across the North West coming together to celebrate everything that makes this area so special.

“We are incredibly proud of the talent, ambition and community spirit that exists across Causeway Coast and Glens, and events like this are important in showcasing the opportunities we have here for business, education and future growth.

“The showcase of the Causeway Coast and Glens Local Economic Partnership Action Plan is a really positive step forward for the region. By working together with our partners, local businesses and education providers, we can help create opportunities for our people, support innovation and continue building a strong and sustainable local economy for the future.”

Steve Frazer, President of Causeway Chamber and Managing Director of City of Derry Airport, said the event marked the beginning of an important new platform for regional collaboration.

He commented: “World Class by Nature was a real celebration and insight into research and successes across the region. From our World Class educational institutions to our entrepreneurs and winners in the sporting world.
It was a privilege for the Causeway Chamber to host the event in race week at the NW200. Thanks go out again to all the Northwest 200 team, CC&G council and all our sponsors for supporting this fantastic event, we look forward to seeing you next year where I’m sure we’ll have even more successes to shout about.”

The evening provided valuable opportunities for networking, knowledge sharing and strengthening connections across the region, reinforcing a shared ambition to position the Causeway Coast and Glens as a world-class place to live, work, study and invest.

For further information on the Causeway Coast and Glens Local Economic Partnership visit: Causeway Coast and Glens LEP