15th July 2026
Businesses invited to share experiences, opportunities and challenges as government develops targeted supports for AI adoption
Minister of State for Trade Promotion, Artificial Intelligence and Digital Transformation, Niamh Smyth haslaunched a new industry consultation inviting businesses from across the manufacturing, tourism, construction and ICT services sectors to help shape the future of Artificial Intelligence (AI) adoption in Ireland.
The consultation forms part of a study being undertaken by Accenture on behalf of the Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment to better understand how Irish businesses are currently using AI, the opportunities they see for growth and innovation, the challenges they face in adopting the technology and the supports required to accelerate uptake across the economy.
The submissions will inform the first phase of the department’s Sectoral Strategy for Enterprise Adoption of AI, helping to ensure that future government policies, programmes and investments are aligned with the needs of businesses as they adopt and scale AI technologies.
Launching the consultation, Minister Smyth said:
"Artificial Intelligence is rapidly transforming how businesses operate, compete and innovate. From improving productivity and efficiency to creating new products, services and customer experiences, AI presents significant opportunities for enterprises of all sizes. We also recognise that businesses face challenges in adopting these technologies, including access to skills, capability development, understanding practical applications, investment considerations and navigating a fast-moving technological landscape.
"To ensure government support is targeted and effective, we want to hear directly from businesses about their experiences. Whether they are already integrating AI into their operations or just beginning to explore its potential, their insights will help us understand where the opportunities lie, what barriers exist, and what supports are needed to help accelerate adoption across Ireland's economy."
The consultation seeks input on how businesses are currently using AI within their operations; the opportunities they see from greater AI adoption, including productivity, competitiveness, innovation and growth; the challenges and barriers that may be slowing adoption; the skills, talent and capability requirements needed to maximise AI's potential and the types of government supports that could help businesses adopt and scale AI more effectively.
The study will focus on the manufacturing, tourism, construction and ICT services sectors, examining both the transformative opportunities that AI presents and the practical challenges businesses must overcome to realise its benefits.
Minister Smyth added:
"The ambition is clear: to ensure that Irish businesses are equipped to succeed in an increasingly digital and AI-enabled global economy. The feedback received through this targeted consultation will play a vital role in shaping policies and supports that help enterprises adopt AI responsibly, build new capabilities and strengthen their competitiveness for the future.
"This is an opportunity for businesses to directly influence Ireland's approach to AI adoption and help shape the supports that will be available in the years ahead."
Businesses of all sizes, from SMEs to large enterprises are encouraged to participate by visiting DETE AI in Enterprise Consultation by 24 July 2026.
ENDS
Notes to editors
Accenture has been commissioned by the Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment to undertake a study examining:
- the opportunities and barriers to the adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the manufacturing, tourism and construction sectors, and the policy measures that could support greater AI uptake
- the opportunities and challenges facing businesses in the ICT services sector as they adapt to AI-driven transformation, together with potential policy responses to support competitiveness and innovation
The study's findings will underpin the development of the first phase of the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment's Sectoral Strategy for AI in Enterprise in Ireland and support the delivery of Ireland's wider digital transformation objectives.
The work is also being guided by a steering group, chaired by Assistant Secretary Jean Carberry, comprising representatives from industry, enterprises operating in the priority sectors and relevant policy stakeholders. The steering group is providing practical insight and strategic advice to help ensure the strategy reflects the needs and experiences of businesses across the economy.
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