Second German-Irish Business Forum 2026
On Tuesday, 26 May 2026, the German-Irish Chamber of Industry and Commerce (AHK Ireland) successfully hosted the Second German-Irish Business Forum on “AI for Business: Real Adoption, Real Leadership” at the Herbert Park Hotel in Dublin. The event brought together policymakers, industry leaders, and innovators to explore the practical implementation of artificial intelligence and its transformative impact on businesses, particularly SMEs.
The day began with a well-attended registration and networking breakfast, offering participants the opportunity to connect, exchange ideas, and set the stage for a dynamic programme.
Guests and Speakers
The opening keynote session featured distinguished speakers including H.E. David Gill, Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Germany to Ireland, James Geoghegan, TD, Vice President of the Oireachtas Committee on Artificial Intelligence and Joe Walsh, President of the German-Irish Chamber of Industry & Commerce and General Manager, Siemens Ireland. Their remarks highlighted the growing importance of AI in strengthening economic ties and fostering innovation between Ireland and Germany.
Panel 1 - AI for SMEs: From Confusion to Competitive Advantage
The first panel discussion focused on practical strategies to support small and medium-sized enterprises in navigating the complexities of AI. Moderated by Michael Dowling (DCU Business School), the session featured insights from Mark Kelly (AI Ireland), Ger Perdisatt (Acuity AI), and Aarthi Kumar (CK Delta).
Key topics included data readiness and cybersecurity, implementation challenges, and addressing skills shortages through upskilling. The discussion provided attendees with clear, actionable guidance on how to begin and scale their AI journey.
Panel 2 - Leading AI Innovation: Strategy, Transformation & Real-World Deployment
Following an engaging Q&A session, the second panel shifted the focus to leadership and strategic transformation. Moderated by Pierangelo Rosati (DCU Business School), the panel brought together leading voices in AI including Deirdre Hogan (EY), Stefanie Teichmann (TECA), Aideen Bodkin (Sizible), and Meg Brennan (Polliknow).
The discussion emphasised AI as a leadership challenge rather than purely a technological one, highlighting the importance of organisational culture, trust, governance, and continuous transformation. Panelists also explored how responsible AI practices can serve as a strategic advantage for businesses.
The event concluded with a Q&A session followed by a networking lunch, where participants continued discussions and strengthened valuable connections.
Overall, the forum provided a dynamic platform for knowledge exchange and collaboration, reinforcing the importance of real-world AI adoption and strong leadership in driving business success. Once again, the German-Irish Chamber demonstrated its role as a key facilitator of dialogue between the German and Irish business communities.