The Executive Office is seeking the views of businesses on Northern Ireland’s draft Artificial Intelligence Strategy, which will guide the responsible adoption and use of AI across the public sector.

The strategy recognises AI’s potential to improve public services, strengthen decision-making and support productivity and economic growth. It is founded on eight principles:

  • Human oversight
  • Accountability and redress
  • Data governance
  • Technical safety and security
  • Fairness and transparency
  • Sustainability
  • Societal benefit
  • Training and literacy

For the strategy to succeed, it must reflect the practical experience of the businesses expected to adopt, supply and work alongside these technologies. Employers can provide valuable evidence on skills shortages, infrastructure, procurement, workforce implications and the barriers preventing smaller companies from using AI effectively.

Smaller businesses may recognise AI’s potential but often lack the time, expertise, finance or confidence to move beyond limited experimentation. The draft highlights existing support through the Artificial Intelligence Collaboration Centre, while acknowledging that demand is already outstripping supply.

The final strategy should therefore consider how practical support can be made accessible to more businesses. This includes help to identify worthwhile applications, prepare and manage data, train employees, assess risks and establish whether an AI investment is likely to deliver a genuine return.

Public procurement is equally important. As government departments and public bodies increase their use of AI, new opportunities could emerge for Northern Ireland’s technology companies, researchers and professional services firms. The draft proposes modular and phased procurement contracts that allow technologies to be tested and evaluated before being expanded. It also warns against excessive reliance on individual technology providers.

These principles are welcome, but their implementation must allow SMEs and regional suppliers to compete for pilot projects, contracts and supply-chain opportunities. Without accessible procurement processes, public-sector AI expenditure could become concentrated among a small number of large providers.

Participation from North West businesses is critical in shaping a regional balanced strategy. The strategy identifies 198 specialist AI companies across Northern Ireland, but reports that 73% are based in Belfast and only 4% in Derry-Londonderry. Business responses can help ensure that the final strategy addresses this imbalance and that future investment, training and procurement opportunities are accessible across every region.

The consultation questionnaire seeks views on skills, governance, data sharing, infrastructure and public-sector transformation. Businesses do not need specialist technical knowledge to contribute. Their experience of adopting technology, recruiting skilled employees, bidding for contracts and interacting with public services is directly relevant.

Derry Chamber encourages members to review the proposals and complete the questionnaire. Strong participation will help ensure that the final strategy moves beyond broad ambition and provides practical, measurable support for SMEs throughout Northern Ireland.

The consultation and questionnaire are open until 5.00pm on Wednesday 7th October 2026.