New polling shows Northern Ireland is open to AI’s potential but a major skills and trust gap risks holding back adoption and productivity.

Recent research from the Ulster University Strategic Policy Unit in The AI Pulse: Public Sentiment in Northern Ireland on Artificial Intelligence provides the first comprehensive baseline of public attitudes to artificial intelligence in Northern Ireland. The findings carry clear implications for businesses seeking to adopt AI responsibly and at pace.

The poll reveals high headline awareness, 83% of respondents describe themselves as at least “somewhat aware” of AI, and many are already using AI tools, particularly for searching and recommendations. However, this headline readiness masks a deeper challenge. Only 15% feel “very able” to use AI safely and effectively, while 89% report having received no AI-related training at all. This points to a significant AI readiness gap.

Public attitudes towards AI are mixed. While there is optimism about its potential to improve productivity, healthcare, science and education, concerns about risk outweigh perceived opportunities for many. Trust levels are notably low, particularly around data privacy, reliability and ethical use. Crucially, people are not rejecting AI; rather, they are demanding strong human oversight, transparency and ethical governance.

For businesses, this matters in three ways. First, workforce capability is emerging as a binding constraint. Firms that invest early in AI literacy and upskilling are likely to gain a competitive advantage, while those that do not risk falling behind. Second, trust will shape adoption. Employers will need to be transparent about how AI is used, how data is handled, and where human decision-making remains central. Third, there is a clear opportunity for businesses to work with education providers and policymakers to help close emerging digital divides linked to age, gender and socio-economic status.

The message from the poll is clear: AI adoption in Northern Ireland will succeed not through technology alone, but through skills, trust and responsible leadership.

Key takeaway:

Northern Ireland is AI-aware but underprepared, businesses that invest in skills, transparency and ethical use now will be best placed to capture productivity gains and public confidence.

You can find the full report here: Ulster University Strategic Policy Unit in The AI Pulse: Public Sentiment in Northern Ireland on Artificial Intelligence