Preparing today’s workforce for tomorrow’s technology.

A new Matrix NI report, “AI and the Future of Work in Northern Ireland,” outlines how artificial intelligence is reshaping the region’s economy and workforce. Forecasting that AI could contribute up to £1.2 billion in additional GVA by 2030 and impact up to 200,000 job equivalents through task transformation rather than job loss.

The report highlights the dual role of AI as both a high-value growth sector and a transformative force across all industries, from manufacturing and healthcare to financial services and education. Northern Ireland already has strong foundations in areas like cybersecurity, health tech, and digital innovation, supported by 198 local firms developing AI solutions and employing more than 1,300 professionals.

However, it also identifies key challenges that must be addressed to ensure inclusive growth including limited venture capital access, talent retention, leadership caution, and the need for clear regulatory guidance between UK, NI and EU frameworks.

The study outlines four potential futures for Northern Ireland’s AI adoption, ranging from the high-growth “Titanic Leap” scenario where rapid adoption and agile skills development make the region a global leader, to the “Slow Lane Spiral” where hesitancy leads to missed opportunities and declining competitiveness.

For the North West, the report underscores the importance of skills agility, SME adoption, and cross-sector collaboration to ensure that local businesses can benefit from AI-driven productivity gains while protecting job quality and inclusivity.

Full report available here.