ICMA is excited to announce that registration for the 2026 Global Exchange is open! ICMA strategic ally the County and City Management Association of Ireland (CCMA-Ireland) is the host for the 2026 ICMA Global Exchange.
ICMA members have the opportunity to visit Dublin, Limerick, and the Midlands Region in Ireland to exchange best practices in local government management. Participants will interact with municipal managers and other local government staff while discussing how to address local government challenges that are common across the globe. Attendees will gain new perspectives and learn new ways to serve community members. Program highlights are below. This is an invaluable opportunity to connect with colleagues and expand your local government network.
Dublin
Participants will attend an opening reception with the Lord Mayor at the famous Mansion House and participate in presentations and site visits covering the following topics:
- Climate Action.
- Regeneration.
- Active Travel.
- Smart Cities/Tourism.
- Night - Economy Safety Initiative (Nee Naw).
Attendees will also have the chance to visit Croke Park and participate in key briefings on the latest issues in Irish local government.
Limerick
As part of the exchange, participants will travel to County Limerick to learn about preparations for the 2027 Ryder Cup, the Shannon Estuary Task Force and Wind Energy initiatives, and rural development. In the afternoon, participants will travel to Limerick City to hear from Ireland’s first directly elected mayor and have the opportunity to attend site visits to King John’s Castle or One Opera Square to discuss economic and social development.
Midlands Region
ICMA members will travel to Ballymahon in County Longford for a day full of presentations and site visits surrounding the theme of “From Fossil Fuels to Tourism, Communities Adapting to Climate Change in Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands.”
Optional Day in Northern Ireland
On Friday March 27, ICMA members will have the opportunity to travel to Newry and Mourne in Northern Ireland for an additional fee. This trip will feature a day at the famous Killeavy Castle filled with discussions on local government in Northern Ireland, site visits to local projects, and other cultural experiences.
Fees and Deadlines
The registration fee is $700 for members and $350 for members' guests. The optional day in Northern Ireland is available for an additional $150 fee for both members and guests.
The fee includes ground transportation costs, fees, and certain meals, as noted in the draft schedule. Participants are responsible for their airfare and hotel costs. Group hotel rates have been negotiated, and the nightly rate is €280 for a classic king room (1 bed, sleeps 2 people) and €310 for a classic twin room (2 beds, sleeps 2 people). The rate includes breakfast and applicable taxes (VAT).
Registration is first come, first served. Opened now and closing January 15, 2026, or when capacity is reached. Refunds can be processed until January 15, 2026. ICMA expects this trip to be popular, and registration is limited. Register as early as possible in order to secure your spot!
Important Registration Information
Registration is limited to ICMA members.
ICMA members can follow the registration link below to be directed to the form. Registration will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis and all registrations are subject to review by ICMA staff.
After registration, members will receive a confirmation email that contains several important links and other information. Ensure that you read this email and follow instructions for hotel booking and sending other necessary logistical information to ICMA staff.
If you plan to bring a guest, include them at the time of registration by clicking the “add guest” button at the bottom of the member registration page. It’s not possible to edit your registration information once the form is submitted, including adding a guest. We recommend finalizing your guest plans as soon as possible so you can register and secure your spot. Only one payment method is allowed during the registration process, so keep this in mind when completing the registration.
Register Today!
Join your ICMA colleagues for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience local government from an entirely new perspective and contribute to strengthening the local government profession and improving communities worldwide.
Event Details:
Dublin, Ireland: March 22-27, 2026
For questions or additional information, contact Jeanette Gass, senior program manager, strategic relationships, member support and advancement at jgass@icma.org or Sophie Weyn, assistant program manager, strategic relationships, member support and advancement at sweyn@icma.org.
Image 1: Croke Park, Dublin, courtesy of Dublin City Council
Image 2: King John's Castle, Limerick, courtesy of County Limerick
Image 3: Lanesborough, County Longford, courtesy of County Longford
New, Reduced Membership Dues
A new, reduced dues rate is available for CAOs/ACAOs, along with additional discounts for those in smaller communities, has been implemented. Learn more and be sure to join or renew today!
