Registrations are now open for the National AI Challenge 2025, a hackathon-style initiative by TechIreland, for developers and AI enthusiasts from across Ireland to collaborate and build practical AI solutions addressing real-world problems. With strong uptake recorded from across developer communities, organisers are expecting to complete registrations before 10th August - the scheduled closing date.

Inspired by Ireland's national AI strategy, "AI - Here for Good," the Challenge emphasises people-centred, ethical AI development across diverse sectors including FinTech, InsurTech, Health, Enterprise Solutions, Public Services, ImmersiveTech, Sustainability, among other impact-driven themes.

National AI Challenge 2025 to Drive AI Innovation

Supported by Enterprise Ireland, Data2Sustain EDIH, Google, and OpenAI, the 2025 Challenge has attracted interest and support from prominent industry groups such as ITAG, InsTech.ie, and Eirmersive, alongside global companies implementing AI such as Millennium Management and the leading AI Platform, Workday - both organisations expanding their presence in Ireland, reflecting the country's world-class technology talent.

With hundreds of participants signing-up, ten leading innovation hubs have stepped forward to support as Challenge Venues and host the final in-person day, following two-week of remote collaboration. This year, teams are encouraged to develop either innovative solutions or efficiency-driven agentic workflows to tackle pressing industry challenges.

Google and OpenAI provide participants with complimentary access to their advanced AI tools, along with technical guidance from their teams. Both organisations have been longstanding supporters of the initiative, ensuring a valuable educational experience for participants. Now entering its second year, the Challenge has expanded its network to include nearly 30 partner organisations and coding communities nationwide to enhance collaboration and impact.

On 11th August, all registered participants will be invited to the AI Challenge opening webinar for briefings and guidelines. Sean Blanchfield - Founder & CEO of agentic AI startup Jentic, will talk about building with AI primer, inspiring the application of AI for meaningful outcomes.

These top teams announced on the final in-person day will have the opportunity to showcase their projects at the National AI Meet 2025 on 18th September in Galway, where the National AI Challenge 2025 winners will be announced.

Participants from last year reported a steep learning curve during the Challenge, with two teams even evolving into fledgling startups. The National AI Challenge Steering Group is confident that this year's Challenge will also bring to light innovative solutions and workflows.

Challenge Highlights

An ideation and consultation period to shape ideas with sector and technical experts

Two full weeks to build AI solutions

Local demo events at more than 10 hubs nationwide

A final showcase for top teams at the National AI Meet in Galway on 18 September

Key Dates

10 August: Registration closes (free to enter)

11 August to 21 August: Team formation, ideation webinars and preparation

22 August to 4 September: Build phase

5 September: Regional in-person presentation day

18 September: National showcase in Galway

Participants must be based in Ireland or Northern Ireland, and must be at least 18 years of age.

The event continues to champion the principles of ethical AI design, inclusion, and collaboration, placing a strong emphasis on learning and impact over competition.

For more information, and to register: CLICK

Commentary from Key Stakeholders:

Brian Caulfield, Chair - TechIreland: TechIreland is proud to be hosting the second edition of the National AI Challenge, together with our sponsors and supporters. AI is here to stay and will have profound impacts on society. We can't ignore it. Ireland needs to be a leader in driving considered, ethical adoption of AI. We hope that the National...