Tech Sector Aspirations for Budget 2026: Key Expectations and Priorities Revealed on RTE.ie

Tech Industry Outlines Key Budget 2026 Priorities

october 6, 2025 – Archyde News

Teh Technology Sector is anticipating substantial support from the upcoming budget 2026, with requests centering on infrastructure investment, skills advancement, and initiatives to foster innovation. Industry Leaders have articulated a range of expectations, hoping to position Ireland as a leading hub for technological advancement.

Infrastructure Demands Take Center Stage

A Major point of contention amongst Tech Companies is the need for upgraded digital infrastructure across the country. Representatives are pushing for increased investment in high-speed broadband,particularly in rural areas,to ensure equitable access to technology. This investment is seen as crucial for attracting further foreign direct investment and supporting the growth of domestic startups.

Currently, Ireland’s National Broadband Plan, while progressing, faces ongoing challenges relating to timelines and costs.The tech sector argues that accelerating this plan, and exploring additional investment in emerging technologies like 5G and 6G, is paramount.

Addressing the Skills Gap

The Tech Sector is grappling with a significant skills shortage, hindering its ability to expand and innovate. Industry figures are advocating for increased funding for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education at all levels, from primary school to higher education. They suggest a focus on retraining programs to upskill the existing workforce is also necessary.

Recent data from Skillnet Ireland revealed a 70% increase in demand for data science and artificial intelligence skills over the past year, underscoring the urgency of this issue.industry Leaders are also proposing tax incentives for companies investing in employee training and development.

Fostering Innovation and Start-Up Growth

Ireland’s Tech Industry is calling for measures to stimulate innovation and support the growth of start-up companies.Proposals include enhanced research and development tax credits, streamlined regulatory processes for new technologies, and increased funding for venture capital initiatives.

Furthermore, Industry Representatives have highlighted the importance of maintaining Ireland’s competitive corporate tax rate to attract and retain international tech firms. They claim that any changes to this rate could jeopardize Ireland’s position as a global technology hub.

Here’s a rapid comparison of key requests:

Area	Key Requests
Infrastructure	Accelerated broadband rollout, Investment in 5G/6G
Skills	Increased STEM funding, Retraining programs, Tax incentives
Innovation	R&D tax credits, Streamlined regulations, Venture capital funding

Did You Know? Ireland is home to over 1,800 tech companies, employing more than 180,000 people, according to IDA Ireland’s latest report.

The Broader Economic context

These requests come as the Irish economy faces increasing global headwinds, including inflation, supply chain disruptions, and geopolitical uncertainty. the Tech Sector argues that strategic investment in technology is essential for driving economic growth and resilience in the face of these challenges.

Experts predict that the technology sector will continue to be a key driver of Ireland’s economic performance in the years ahead. Continued Government Support, they say, is crucial for ensuring that Ireland remains at the forefront of technological innovation.

Pro Tip: Staying informed about government budgets and their impact on the technology sector is crucial for businesses and individuals alike. check the Department of Finance website for regular updates.

Understanding Budgetary Influence on Tech

Government Budgets play a pivotal role in shaping the Tech Landscape of any nation. Investment in research, education, and infrastructure creates an ecosystem conducive to innovation and growth. Tax incentives and regulatory frameworks can further encourage both domestic and foreign tech investment. Conversely, unfavorable policies can stifle growth and drive businesses elsewhere.

Ireland, with its historically pro-business environment, has successfully attracted Major Tech companies. Maintaining this competitive edge requires a continued commitment to supporting the sector through strategic budgetary allocations.

Frequently Asked Questions About Budget 2026 and the tech Sector

• What is the Tech Sector’s primary concern regarding Budget 2026? The sector is primarily concerned with securing investment in infrastructure, skills development, and innovation.
• How will improved infrastructure benefit the Tech Sector? Enhanced broadband and 5G/6G networks will support innovation, facilitate remote work, and attract foreign investment.
• What is being done to address the skills gap in technology? Increased funding for STEM education, retraining programs, and tax incentives for employee development are being proposed.
• Why are R&D tax credits significant for the Tech Sector? R&D tax credits encourage companies to invest in research and development, leading to new products, services, and job creation.
• how does Ireland’s corporate tax rate impact the Tech Sector? Ireland’s low corporate tax rate is a key factor attracting international tech firms; changes could jeopardize this advantage.

What are your thoughts on the Tech Sector’s Budget 2026 priorities? Share your comments below.

What specific R&D tax credit expansions are tech companies advocating for in Budget 2026, and how would these benefit SMEs?

Funding for Digital Transformation & Innovation

Recent coverage on RTE.ie highlights a notable push from Ireland’s tech sector for increased budgetary allocation towards digital transformation initiatives in Budget 2026. The core argument revolves around bolstering Ireland’s competitive edge in the global tech landscape and fostering sustainable economic growth. Key demands center on:

* Increased R&D Tax credits: Tech companies are advocating for an expansion of Research and Growth (R&D) tax credits, specifically targeting SMEs involved in cutting-edge technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), and cybersecurity. This would incentivize further innovation and attract foreign direct investment (FDI).

* Skills Development programs: A critical shortage of skilled tech professionals is a recurring theme. The sector is calling for substantial investment in upskilling and reskilling programs, focusing on areas like data science, cloud computing, and software development. Collaboration between higher education institutions and industry is seen as vital.

* Digital Infrastructure Enhancement: Reliable and high-speed broadband is no longer a luxury but a necessity. The tech sector wants to see continued investment in national broadband infrastructure, notably in rural areas, to ensure equitable access to digital opportunities. This includes 5G rollout and fiber optic network expansion.

* Support for Startups & scale-ups: Ireland’s vibrant startup ecosystem is a major driver of innovation.Budget 2026 expectations include increased funding for seed capital, venture capital, and accelerator programs to help early-stage tech companies scale and compete internationally.

addressing the Skills Gap: A National Priority

The RTE.ie report emphasized the urgency of addressing the skills deficit. Ireland faces stiff competition from other European nations in attracting and retaining top tech talent. Specific proposals include:

1. Expansion of STEM Education: Increased investment in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education at all levels, from primary school to university.
2. Apprenticeship Programs: Development of more tech-focused apprenticeship programs, providing practical, hands-on training and a pathway to employment.
3. Attracting International Talent: Streamlining the visa process for highly skilled tech workers and offering incentives to attract international talent to Ireland.This is particularly crucial in areas where there is a severe skills shortage.
4. Lifelong Learning Initiatives: Funding for continuous professional development (CPD) programs to help existing tech professionals stay up-to-date with the latest technologies and trends.

Cybersecurity Investment: Protecting Ireland’s Digital Future

With the increasing sophistication of cyber threats, the tech sector is urging the government to prioritize cybersecurity investment. This includes:

* National Cybersecurity Strategy: A fully funded and comprehensive national cybersecurity strategy to protect critical infrastructure and businesses from cyberattacks.

* Cybersecurity Awareness programs: Public awareness campaigns to educate individuals and organizations about cybersecurity best practices.

* Support for Cybersecurity Companies: Incentives for cybersecurity companies to establish and grow in Ireland, creating jobs and expertise.

* Collaboration with International Partners: Strengthening collaboration with international cybersecurity agencies to share intelligence and best practices.

Tax Implications & Corporate Tax Rates

The discussion on RTE.ie also touched upon the impact of global tax reforms on Ireland’s attractiveness as a location for tech companies. While maintaining a competitive corporate tax rate remains a priority, the sector acknowledges the need for ireland to comply with international agreements. The focus is on:

* Maintaining a Stable Tax Environment: Providing certainty and predictability for tech companies operating in Ireland.

* Investing in Innovation: Using tax revenues to fund innovation and skills development, enhancing Ireland’s long-term competitiveness.

* Attracting High-value Investments: Targeting investments in high-value activities,such as R&D and intellectual property development.

Real-World Example: The Impact of R&D Tax Credits

Several Irish tech companies have publicly stated the positive impact of R&D tax credits on their ability to innovate and grow. For example, Intercom, a customer messaging platform, has credited the R&D tax credit scheme with enabling them to invest in developing new features and expanding their global reach. This demonstrates the tangible benefits of such incentives.

Benefits of Meeting Tech Sector Expectations

Meeting the tech sector’s aspirations in Budget 2026 offers several potential benefits for Ireland:

* Economic Growth: Increased investment in the tech sector will drive economic growth and create high-paying jobs.

* Enhanced Competitiveness: A strong tech sector will enhance Ireland’s competitiveness in the global economy.

* Innovation & Productivity: Increased R&D and skills development will foster innovation and productivity.

* Improved Digital Infrastructure: Enhanced digital infrastructure will benefit all sectors of the economy.

Practical Tips for Tech Companies Preparing for Budget 2026

* Engage with Government: Actively engage with government officials and policymakers to advocate for your priorities.

* Highlight Your Impact: Demonstrate the economic and social impact of your company and the tech sector as a whole.

* Collaborate with Industry Associations: Work with industry associations to amplify your voice and advocate for common goals.

* Stay Informed: Keep abreast of developments in Budget 2026 and related policy areas.