Irish CEOs remain confident about growth prospects over the next year, despite global volatility. According to EY Ireland’s latest CEO Outlook Survey, 92% of Irish CEOs expect revenue growth, with geopolitical risks topping their list of concerns. This optimism is higher compared to their global counterparts, where only 86% anticipate revenue growth. However, 70% of Irish CEOs identify geopolitical tension as a primary risk, compared to 56% globally. Other concerns include macroeconomic volatility, supply chain disruptions, and talent shortages.
## AI Investment Shifts from Experimentation to Accountability
In Ireland, AI investment has reached a new level of maturity. According to the survey, 84% of Irish CEOs have increased their AI investments since 2025, aligning with a global trend where 80% of CEOs report similar growth. The emphasis is now on achieving measurable results from AI initiatives. Around 58% of Irish CEOs have already observed a tangible impact on core operations, although concerns about fragmented AI regulatory frameworks and compliance complexity persist.
A majority of Irish CEOs, 68%, are now using standard metrics to assess AI’s impact on significant projects. This shift indicates a transition from merely adopting AI technology to ensuring it delivers returns. As AI becomes more integrated into business operations, 60% of Irish CEOs anticipate significant reskilling and upskilling in the workforce over the next three years. However, only 10% believe AI will reduce hiring in specific roles. The main challenge remains skills availability, with 38% citing cultural resistance to change as a significant barrier.
## Competitive Context and Global Comparisons
Irish CEOs’ optimism contrasts with their global peers, who express slightly less confidence in growth and competitive positioning. While geopolitical risks are a primary concern for both, the intensity of these concerns is higher in Ireland. Globally, technology disruptions, including AI-related risks, are more pronounced, with 23% of CEOs citing them as a top concern. This indicates varying regional priorities and challenges.
AI’s role in business strategy is evolving, with Irish companies now focusing on accountability. Globally, the shift towards AI accountability is also evident, but the challenges differ. Cultural resistance to AI is less of an issue worldwide, with only 16% of global CEOs identifying it as a barrier. This suggests that Irish companies may need to focus more on cultural adaptation to fully leverage AI’s potential.
## Implications for Irish and European Stakeholders
For Irish and European founders, engineers, and investors, the survey’s findings highlight the dual challenges and opportunities in the current business landscape. The optimism among Irish CEOs suggests a robust environment for growth, but the emphasis on geopolitical risks underscores the need for strategic navigation. For engineers and tech professionals, the focus on AI accountability and measurable results points to a demand for skills in AI implementation and impact assessment.
Investors may find opportunities in companies that can effectively manage geopolitical risks while leveraging AI for operational improvements. The need for AI-related skills and cultural adaptation could also spur demand for training and consulting services. For European stakeholders, understanding the specific challenges faced by Irish companies can provide insights into navigating similar issues across the continent.
Irish CEOs’ confidence in growth, despite geopolitical challenges, suggests a resilient business environment. However, the focus on AI accountability and the need for cultural adaptation indicate areas for potential development. For founders and investors, aligning strategies with these trends could provide a competitive edge in the evolving Irish and European markets.