While a positive, that is still the third lowest in Ireland.
The IDA is warning 2021 will be a difficult year to attract foreign investment to Ireland because of the pandemic.
Employment as a result of IDA projects in the midlands increased by 1.8% in 2020, the third lowest rate in the country.
The agency, which attracts foreign companies to locate here, said it created almost 9,000 jobs here last year, when losses were also taken into account.
That compares to over 13,900 in 2019.
CEO Martin Shanahan says foreign direct investment is declining worldwide:
The IDA is targeting 25 new investments in the midlands over the next three years.
The aim is set out in its draft strategy for recovery and sustainable growth, which contains plans for new buildings in Athlone and Mullingar during that time.
It's also secured planning permission from Offaly County Council for an advanced technology centre in Tullamore.
Minister of State, Longford/Westmeath Fine Gael TD Peter Burke says the strategy is a significant one for the region:
Michael O'Leary Allays Jet Fuel Shortage Concerns
Man Dies In Second Fatal Midlands Crash In 24 Hours
Family Carers Ireland Criticises Lack Of Progress On Government Commitments
Fundraising Walk Planned For Westmeath Man Left Paralysed In Freak Accident
AI Dementia Shield Prototype Showcased In Westmeath
Electric Bus Fleet Lies Idle Over Lack Of Charging Points
Gardaí Appealing For Witnesses After Fatal Midlands Crash
Offaly Author Shortlisted For Literary Award
Four Arrested Over Fatal Offaly House Fire
Elderly Pedestrian In Critical Condition After Midlands Car Crash
Fuel Support Scheme Approved For Agriculture, Fisheries And Haulage Sectors
Sinn Féin Warns Of Healthcare Gaps Due To Housing Shortage
Laois Farmer Grows New Links In Regional Food Network
Charter Medical Private Hospital Wins National Award
Cabinet Delays Airbnb Regulation And Short-Term Let Register Ahead Of Summer
Laois Firm Wins Sustainability Award At SEAI Energy Show
Midlands Media Committee Member Wants Explanation Over Local Radio Levy Hike
Westmeath Councillors Seek Taxpayer Cost Review Of Failed IPAS Centre
Journalists Face Surge In Online Abuse As NUJ Urges Tech Action
Camross Camogie Honoured In Laois Following Historic All-Ireland Triumph