- Skillnet Ireland revealed research showing 78pc of business leaders view upskilling as a strategic priority
- The report was based on a survey of 750 business leaders by Ipsos B&A
- 72pc of SMEs identified access to qualified talent as very important
- 41pc of Irish companies demonstrate high or very high levels of digital intensity
- Just 27pc of businesses plan to invest in AI upskilling over the next 12 months
Skillnet Ireland has revealed new research showing that over three-quarters of business leaders view upskilling as a strategic priority and critical to future business success. The report, entitled Ireland’s Talent Landscape 2026, was based on research conducted by Ipsos B&A with a nationally representative survey of 750 business leaders. The research shows that access to skilled talent remains the single most important enabler of success.
Among SMEs with 10 to 49 employees, 72pc identified access to qualified talent as very important, rising to 75pc among large businesses with 250 or more employees. The study found that more than half of companies expect the core skills required by their workforce to change over the next three years, rising to 79pc among larger organisations. Using a new Digital Intensity Index based on Eurostat methodology, the findings point to a two-speed digital economy. While 41pc of Irish companies demonstrate high or very high levels of digital intensity, the majority remain at lower levels of digital adoption.
Among businesses with very high digital intensity, 82pc believe AI will have a significant or transformative impact on their organisation within the next two years. Despite this growing awareness, investment in AI skills development remains limited, with just 27pc of businesses planning to invest in AI upskilling over the next 12 months. A quarter of businesses expect more than half of their workforce to require sustainability-related training, down from 33pc in 2025.
Minister James Lawless shared “The strength of Ireland’s economy has always depended on the talent of our people. As businesses navigate rapid technological change and evolving market demands, investing in skills has never been more important. This research provides a valuable picture of the challenges and opportunities facing Irish enterprises today.”
