Artificial Intelligence Capability Census
A baseline study of AI adoption, opportunity and impact in Northern Ireland
A baseline study of AI adoption, opportunity and impact in Northern Ireland
The Artificial Intelligence Collaboration Centre (AICC) has published the first-ever comprehensive baseline of the Northern Ireland AI ecosystem, setting the foundation for growth and innovation across the region.
The Artificial Intelligence Capability Census, commissioned by the AICC and delivered by Perspective Economics, identifies 198 firms actively engaged in AI across Northern Ireland, employing approximately 1,340 AI professionals. The report finds that Northern Ireland’s AI-related revenue reached £188 million in 2024, generating £82 million in Gross Value Added (GVA).
With the right interventions, the mid-growth scenario outlined in the report shows that AI-related GVA could reach £200 million by 2028, supporting over 2,000 AI professionals. This would represent a more than doubling of the sector’s economic contribution compared to the current baseline of £82 million GVA and 1,340 professionals in 2024, underlining the significant growth potential of Northern Ireland’s AI economy.
Key highlights include:
Launching the report at a visit to the AICC in Belfast, Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald, said:
“Artificial intelligence will transform our economy. This report shows both the strength of our AI sector and the potential ahead. With targeted investment in skills, innovation, and the widespread adoption of AI, we can ensure that our people and businesses are positioned to capitalise on the opportunities. The AICC will be central to delivering this ambition.”
David Crozier CBE, Director of the AICC, welcomed the Minister’s visit and praised the Census as a turning point in Northern Ireland’s AI journey:
“This is a defining moment. The Census confirms what we’ve long suspected, that Northern Ireland punches well above its weight in practical, implementation-focused AI. Our strength isn’t in theoretical research alone, but in applying AI to real-world challenges. This report gives us the data and direction to scale that success, responsibly, regionally, and collaboratively as well as a solid baseline from which to measure our progress and impact.”
The report sets out eight key recommendations to accelerate growth, including positioning Northern Ireland as a leader in AI implementation, strengthening public sector AI leadership, scaling the “mid-market” of AI firms, and expanding AI skills pipelines.
To discuss this report please get in touch with us at aicc@ulster.ac.uk or contact the Perspective Economics Research Team at info@perspectiveeconomics.com.
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