First Derivative to build AI centre of excellence in Ireland

First Derivative is committing more than £15 million to a new centre of excellence devoted to artificial intelligence and financial technology in Ireland. The plan was announced by First Minister Michelle O'Neill, Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly and Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald, who presented the investment as a boost to research, development and employment.

The centre is designed to give the company a dedicated base for expanding its AI capabilities alongside its fintech work, pairing research and development with the creation of new roles. Specific figures for job numbers or construction timelines were not included in the announcement.

The involvement of the executive's most senior figures reflects the competition among regions to secure technology investment and the political value placed on high-skill employment. AI and fintech have become priority areas for governments seeking to build expertise that can support a broader digital economy and anchor firms to a location.

For First Derivative, the centre adds to a wider push across financial services, where firms are racing to embed machine learning in trading, compliance and customer operations. Building a dedicated research hub can also help attract specialist staff and signal a long-term commitment to the local labour market.