Anne Lanigan
Head of Enterprise Ireland’s Technology Services and Consumer Division
While it’s natural to feel some fear around new technologies, I believe AI will ultimately create more jobs than it replaces: better jobs with more value and impact.
Artificial intelligence (AI) offers major opportunities for Irish businesses to boost efficiency, productivity and competitiveness by delivering higher quality products and services.
Smart AI solutions over hype
From my work with Enterprise Ireland clients, I see two main areas of opportunity. The first is improving existing processes. Companies can use AI for intelligent automation, whether that’s behind the scenes or customer-facing. The second is developing AI-powered products to bring to market. Many products already have software elements; now they’ll increasingly need to include AI to stay relevant. This is a positive evolution.
That said, we must be careful how we apply AI. People don’t buy technology; they buy solutions. AI needs to enhance the product or service, meet real market needs and maintain strong customer service, which may require a human interface. Hype won’t deliver results.
AI needs to enhance the product or
service, meet real market needs and
maintain strong customer service.
Offering AI skills and funding
Finding the right expertise can be a challenge. That’s why we work closely with the European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs), which offer businesses access to cutting-edge technology support, testing and training. These hubs help companies build their skills and explore how AI can strengthen their offering.
At Enterprise Ireland, we also provide a range of supports, from advisory services to financial schemes like Innovation Vouchers and the RD&I Fund to help businesses progress through their AI journey.
AI isn’t just a trend, it’s a transformation. Now is the time for Irish companies to act — with purpose, support and a clear focus on delivering value.
