Microsoft marks 40 years in Ireland with expanded AI skills investment and industry commitments
Microsoft Ireland has marked its 40th anniversary, with General Manager Catherine Doyle using LinkedIn to reflect on the company’s work across public and private sectors.
Microsoft Ireland operates as the company’s European hub for engineering, digital transformation, and cloud services, working with government, enterprises, and education partners across the country.
Doyle wrote that the milestone was celebrated alongside Irish government representatives and industry stakeholders, stating that Microsoft’s focus remains on helping organizations “embrace technology and unlock new opportunities for the future.” She noted that Microsoft sees artificial intelligence as a major driver of national growth, adding that AI “has the potential to add at least €250 billion to Ireland’s GDP over the next decade.”
AI skills investment and national competitiveness
In her post, Doyle confirmed that Microsoft will invest an additional €4 million in AI skilling initiatives over the next three years. Programs include Dream Space, which supports students, teachers, and adult learners in developing AI literacy and digital skills.
Doyle emphasized Ireland’s current position in global AI adoption rankings but warned against complacency, writing “we cannot be complacent, we must do all we can in these early days of AI to maintain this leadership position.” She stated that expanded collaboration across government and industry will be essential to ensure responsible AI adoption and sustained economic benefit.
Microsoft UK & Ireland CEO Darren Hardman also took to LinkedIn to acknowledge the anniversary, highlighting the company’s €1.8 billion investment in research and development activity in Ireland over the past decade. Hardman noted Microsoft’s work with start-ups and local suppliers and referenced the same three-year AI skilling investment confirmed by Doyle.
Hardman wrote that Irish government, business, and industry leaders gathered at the anniversary event to review progress and discuss digital transformation priorities. He stated that Microsoft believes AI “has the potential to add at least €250bn (£219bn) to Ireland’s GDP,” positioning the technology as central to future economic growth.
Doyle concluded her post by expressing interest in continued collaboration, writing “I look forward to working with businesses and leaders across the country on this transformative journey.”
The ETIH Innovation Awards 2026
The EdTech Innovation Hub Awards celebrate excellence in global education technology, with a particular focus on workforce development, AI integration, and innovative learning solutions across all stages of education.
Now open for entries, the ETIH Innovation Awards 2026 recognize the companies, platforms, and individuals driving transformation in the sector, from AI-driven assessment tools and personalized learning systems, to upskilling solutions and digital platforms that connect learners with real-world outcomes.
Submissions are open to organizations across the UK, the Americas, and internationally. Entries should highlight measurable impact, whether in K–12 classrooms, higher education institutions, or lifelong learning settings.
