Category: Business

Increasing Irish Immigration Amid the First 100 Days of Trump’s Presidency: How Have Businesses and Citizens Reacted?

The fear element that was released by Trump’s re-inauguration for second tenure caused a spike in Irish immigration. Trump’s stance on immigration during his first tenure was considered extreme and a threat to the freedom and security of millions of immigrants.

During his campaign for second tenure in 2024, he promised to double down and be far more aggressive about implementing the most spectacular migration crackdown. Irish-Americans who were in the US legally and illegally found the policies of President Trump hanging over them.

The immigration raids went up after President Trump returned to office, causing an increase in anxiety in the immigrant community including undocumented Irish people.

Notably, the United States and Ireland share relations beyond common ancestral ties and shared values. The relations extend to regular dialogue on political and economic issues, and official exchange in areas such as medical research and education.

President Trump recently declared March, ‘Irish-American Heritage Month’, because the Irish voted for him heavily in November 2024. If the Irish and Americans share such deep historical ties, how then do recent immigration policies specifically impact Irish immigrants?

This article will explore the reason behind the increase in Irish immigration amid the first 100 days of Trump’s presidency. It will analyze the fear and uncertainty felt by documented and undocumented Irish citizens in the US, and how businesses and citizens have reacted.

The Landscape of Irish Immigration to the US Before Trump’s Presidency

To understand the long-standing trend of Irish immigration to the United States, you need to know its landscape particularly before the early 20th century. Most Irish immigrants before the Great Famine were Protestants, and the Great Famine led to a massive influx of Irish Catholics.

Irish Immigration to the US slowed during the Great Depression and after the Immigration Act of 1924. Currently, over 31 million people claim Irish descent in the US, and although the exact number of undocumented Irish citizens is difficult to establish, it has been estimated to be about 10,000 people.

Common Legal Pathways for Irish Immigration to the US

Over the years, Irish citizens have legally relocated to the US through the various visa pathways.

The first pathway is through the immigrant visas for Irish citizens who wish to reside permanently in the US. They migrate through family-based visas, employment-based visas and diversity lottery visas.

The second pathway is through the non-immigrant visas for Irish citizens who want to enter the US for specific reasons over a temporary period.

The table below explains it further.

 

Visa Types Purpose
1 B visas B-1 for business B-2 for tourism
2 F visas For students
3 H visas For temporary workers H-1B for skilled workers

H-2A/H-2B for seasonal workers.
4 J visas For exchange visitors
5 K visas For fiancees/spouses of U.S citizens.
6 L visas For intra-company transferees
7 O visas For individuals with extraordinary abilities in science, film, athletics, or arts
8 P visas For athletes and entertainers
9 R visas For religious workers
10 U visas For victims of crime
11 V visas For family members of U.S. citizens who are in the process of obtaining permanent residence.

 

Only 1% of over 10,000 Irish immigrants have legally moved permanently to the United States. The Ireland’s Prime Minister’s meeting with President Trump in March shows the Irish’s Government lobbying efforts to secure pathways to legal status for undocumented Irish in the US.

Trump’s First 100 Days: Key Immigration Policies and Their Immediate Implications

In an interview with CBS News, Aisling, an undocumented Irish waitress claims that since ICE started raiding her neighbourhood, she fears that she may become a ‘collateral damage’.

This highlights the effect of Trump’s immigration policies on Irish citizens, but could that have been the cause of the increase in Irish immigration?

We will now consider key immigration policies and their immediate implications:

 

  1. Deportation of Migrants

Over 1,000 people were removed on the fourth day of the Trump administration, and in the same week of entering office, over 5,000 people were detained by Border Patrol in San Diego and El Paso, Texas to be deported.

 

2. Ending the Migrants and Asylum Seekers Process

Within 100 days of being in office, President Trump suspended the entry  of all undocumented migrants to the US and ordered border patrol agents to turn asylum seekers away without a hearing.

3. Scrapping the CBP One Smartphone App

Immediately Trump took office, the CBP One smartphone app, which migrants used to schedule appointments with US border patrol agents, was taken down and over 30,000 people with schedule appointments were said to be stranded inside Mexico.

4. Unannounced Raids and Increasing the Powers of ICE

The statistics released by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) showed that approximately 6,648 undocumented immigrants were arrested within a week that Trump was sworn into office.

Most Irish immigrants believed that they could easily blend in when there was a raid because only criminals were targeted. However, the intensity of the raid made them scared and stopped going to work, church or even school.

 

Immigration experts believe that the aim was to force people to self-deport before they are caught. Could this be the reason why Irish immigration skyrocketed during that period?

Impact of Trump’s Presidency on Irish Immigration

How Irish Citizens and the Diaspora Reacted

Although, the Irish community in America lived in fear and anxiety of their undocumented status, some of them who were interviewed by CBS news believed that communities of color, hispanics and latinos are bearing the brunt of the immigration crackdown.

There were, however, reservations on becoming a ‘collateral damage’ target for the intense ICE raids. In an interview with BBC, Chicago-based immigration lawyer, Fionaa McEntee expresses that some Irish-Americans have empathy for what other people are going through and they stand in solidarity with them.

Even those with Green card are reluctant to travel due to concerns about anti-immigrant sentiment. The increased tension amongst Irish-Americans after Trump’s inauguration made those with Irish descent to consider returning back to Ireland, while others are considering relocating to Ireland to start afresh.

How Businesses Are Responding to Increased Irish Immigration

Employers express worry over workplace raids because they believe that it will lead to an exodus of workers in jobs that many Americans don’t want to do, but the White House is resisting.

Most tech and pharma companies that depend on their partnership with Ireland fear that the political tension in America will discourage investment decisions of Irish-based employers in the US.

What Every Homeowner Should Know About Storm Drain Blockages

Storm drain blockages can lead to serious property damage and health hazards, making them a significant concern for any homeowner. Proper maintenance of these drains is essential to prevent flooding and to keep the water flow efficient. Understanding the causes, prevention methods, and solutions for blockages can help homeowners maintain their properties and minimize risks.

Understanding Storm Drain Blockages

Storm drains are designed to manage excess rainwater, channeling it away from roads and other areas. Blockages can occur due to various reasons, including debris accumulation, sediment build-up, and organic materials. 

Often, leaves, trash, and other debris find their way into these drainage systems, creating obstacles that impede the smooth flow of water. Recognizing the causes of blockages is crucial for effective prevention. Common types of debris that lead to storm drain blockages include sticks, leaves, and various litter that wash into the drains during heavy rainfall. These materials, combined with dirt and sediment, can build up over time, creating significant clogs. In urban areas, infrastructure can be particularly strained during heavy rain periods, leading to overflows and localized flooding. 

Rely on qualified locals for skilled assistance. If you’re facing problems like these, several services offer reliable solutions. Whether you need Septic Tank Cleaning Miami Septic Tank Cleaning Miami Shores Septic Tank Cleaning Coral Gables, or anywhere else local to you, finding the right professionals can ensure that your storm drains are clear and functioning well. Clogged storm drains cause surface flooding and can damage landscaping, foundations, and driveways. Regular maintenance is key to avoiding costly repairs and health hazards associated with stagnant water.

Preventing Blockages

Preventing storm drain blockages requires proactive measures by homeowners and local communities. Regular maintenance is key. This might include clearing leaves, debris, and other obstructions from drains and gutters during seasonal changes. 

Homeowners should be vigilant after storms to inspect drains and ensure they are free from materials that can cause blockages. Communities can play a significant role in prevention by organizing clean-up events or awareness campaigns on keeping drains clear. 

Educating residents about the importance of not littering and understanding the impact of stormwater management helps foster a community-wide approach to maintaining the drainage systems. Collaborations between local governments and communities lead to better infrastructure and effective waste management programs.

The Role of Infrastructure

The design and condition of stormwater infrastructure are critical in preventing blockages. Older systems may not adequately handle current water flow demands, often leading to overwhelmed drains. Maintaining these systems through regular inspections and timely repairs is essential for effective stormwater management. 

In areas where the infrastructure is aging, upgrades may be necessary to accommodate increased rainfall and urban development. Local governments must invest in modernizing stormwater systems to enhance their efficiency, which can mitigate risks associated with blockages and flooding.

Poorly maintained infrastructure can contribute to erosion, road damage, and contamination of local waterways. When systems fail, stormwater may carry pollutants directly into rivers and oceans, harming ecosystems. Public awareness and community involvement play a role in advocating for better infrastructure funding and maintenance. Collaboration between municipalities and residents ensures that drainage systems remain functional and resilient.

Signs of Blocked Drains

Homeowners need to be aware of the signs that indicate a storm drain is blocked. Some common indicators include stagnant water in nearby areas, unpleasant odors emanating from drainage sites, and unexpected water pooling during rain showers. Catching these warning signs early can save considerable effort and resources in the long run. 

If you notice any of these signs, it’s crucial to act quickly. Failing to address blockage can lead to serious flooding, potential property damage, and increased repair costs. Timely interventions will often make a significant difference in preventing larger issues down the road.

Other symptoms may include slow-draining water in sinks, gurgling sounds from pipes, or water backing up in toilets or tubs. Vegetation overgrowth near storm drains can signal excess moisture and hidden clogs. In some cases, pests may be attracted to the stagnant water, creating an additional nuisance. Regularly checking drainage grates and surrounding areas for debris buildup can help prevent blockages from developing.

 

Understanding Local Regulations

Each locality can have different regulations regarding stormwater management and drain maintenance. Homeowners must be informed of their responsibilities and any applicable regulations to avoid potential penalties. 

This includes understanding what materials are permitted in drains and the consequences of non-compliance. Local governments often provide resources and guidelines to help homeowners navigate stormwater management practices. Familiarity with these regulations can help reduce the risk of blockages and associated issues, contributing to safer community living. 

Understanding the intricacies of storm drain maintenance can help minimize risks associated with blockages. By staying vigilant, regularly maintaining drains, and seeking professional help when necessary, homeowners can protect both their properties and community members from the adverse effects of flooding and drainage issues.

CCI Global Expands European Operations at Platform94, Galway

Just six months after opening its first European base at Platform94 in Galway, global customer engagement leader CCI Global have announced a major expansion, moving from a 3-desk startup space into a 30-person office unit. The new office space will provide the capacity needed to support CCI’s ambitious growth plans in the region, with room to scale their team steadily over the coming months.

CCI Global operates across key African markets including Kenya, Ghana, Rwanda, Ethiopia, Egypt and South Africa, with Botswana launching soon. With over 15,000 employees across 15 sites on the continent, the company’s expansion into Galway marks a strategic step in building distributed global tech hubs. Galway’s vibrant talent pool, innovation-driven culture, and strong connectivity make it an ideal European base to complement CCI’s growing African operations.

The expansion was officially announced at a private event today at Platform94, with speakers including Mervyn Pretorius, Group CTO and CCI Ireland Lead and Marie Donnellan, CEO of Platform94. The event was also attended by IDA Ireland.

Martin Roe, Group CEO of CCI Global commented: “This strategic move has been thoughtfully planned and is a key step in our global growth. We chose Ireland as the home of our IT Hub because of its strong reputation for tech talent and the incredible support from the government and local ecosystem. We’re excited to be expanding into a larger space in Galway, strengthening our IT capabilities, and creating more high-quality jobs here in Ireland.”

Mervyn Pretorius, Group CTO and Ireland Lead, added: “Establishing our European base at Platform94 is a strategic move for CCI as we continue to grow our global delivery capability. The team here is already contributing to key areas of our technology and client support operations, and this expansion positions us to deliver even more value to our partners worldwide.”

Marie Donnellan, CEO of Platform94, welcomed the news:
“The speed of CCI’s growth speaks not only to the strength of the local ecosystem for ambitious global tech businesses, but also to the calibre of the team they’ve built here in Galway. We’re proud to support them on this journey and excited to see what’s next as they scale their European presence from their base here at Platform94.”

Denis Curran, Head of Emerging Business at IDA Ireland said: “CCI Global’s expansion in Galway is a strong endorsement of Ireland’s position as a strategic location for ambitious, growth-focused companies. Our pro-business environment, combined with access to skilled talent and a supportive innovation ecosystem, continues to attract firms from across the globe”

This expansion marks a significant milestone for CCI Global. Galway’s rich talent base and dynamic innovation ecosystem have positioned it as a cornerstone of CCI’s global growth strategy.

How to Choose the Right Fraud Prevention Tools for Your E-commerce Business

In the fast-paced world of online retail, fraud remains a persistent and growing concern for e-commerce businesses. From stolen credit cards to account takeovers and refund fraud, the threats are evolving rapidly. To protect their businesses and customers, online retailers must invest in robust fraud prevention tools. However, with so many options available, choosing the right ecommerce fraud prevention software can be a daunting task. This article provides a step-by-step guide to help you select the best tools tailored to your e-commerce business while ensuring comprehensive protection.

  1. Understand the Types of E-commerce Fraud

Before diving into the selection process, it’s crucial to understand the most common types of e-commerce fraud. This will help you identify the specific threats your business might face and choose tools that address those vulnerabilities. Common fraud types include:

  • Payment fraud: Stolen card details used for unauthorized purchases.
  • Account takeover: Hackers gain access to customer accounts to make fraudulent purchases.
  • Chargeback fraud: Customers make false claims to receive refunds for legitimate purchases.
  • Refund fraud: Fraudsters exploit refund policies to steal money.

By understanding these threats, you can narrow your search to tools that specialize in mitigating the risks associated with each type of fraud.

 

  1. Identify Your Business Needs

No two e-commerce businesses are exactly alike. A small online store will have different fraud prevention requirements compared to a global retailer. Start by assessing your business size, transaction volume, and the level of risk you face. Key questions to consider include:

  • What is your average order value (AOV)?
  • Do you operate in high-risk industries?
  • How many transactions do you process daily or monthly?
  • Do you sell internationally, and if so, how diverse is your customer base?

Understanding your business needs ensures that you invest in tools that align with your operations and budget.

 

  1. Look for Real-Time Fraud Detection

One of the most important features in any fraud prevention tool is the ability to detect and prevent fraudulent transactions in real-time. Tools that use artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning are particularly effective, as they can analyze data patterns and behaviors to identify suspicious activity instantly. Real-time fraud detection helps you stop fraud before it happens, reducing financial losses and protecting your customers.

 

  1. Evaluate User Authentication Features

Strong user authentication is critical in preventing account takeovers and unauthorized transactions. Look for tools that offer multi-factor authentication (MFA), biometric authentication, and behavioral analysis. These features ensure that only legitimate users can access accounts and complete transactions, adding an extra layer of security.

 

  1. Ensure Scalability and Flexibility

As your e-commerce business grows, so will the complexity of fraud risks. Choose fraud prevention tools that are scalable and can adapt to your business’s evolving needs. For instance, tools that support cross-border transactions, multiple payment methods, and diverse fraud scenarios are ideal for businesses expanding into new markets.Flexibility is also important. Some fraud prevention tools allow customization, enabling you to set specific rules and thresholds based on your business model. This ensures that the tool is not only effective but also aligned with your unique requirements.

 

  1. Prioritize Ease of Integration

When selecting fraud prevention tools, consider how easily they can integrate with your existing e-commerce platform, payment gateways, and customer relationship management (CRM) systems. Seamless integration minimizes disruptions to your operations and ensures that the tools work harmoniously with your current technology stack. Many fraud prevention solutions offer pre-built integrations for popular platforms like Shopify, Magento, and WooCommerce.

 

  1. Analyze Reporting and Analytics Capabilities

Fraud prevention is not just about stopping fraud—it’s also about learning from it. Tools with robust reporting and analytics capabilities allow you to monitor fraud trends, assess the effectiveness of your strategies, and make data-driven decisions. Look for tools that provide detailed dashboards and reports, giving you a clear picture of your fraud landscape.

 

  1. Compare Costs and ROI

While fraud prevention tools are an investment, it’s essential to evaluate their costs in relation to the potential losses they can help you avoid. Many providers offer tiered pricing based on transaction volume or features, so you can find a solution that fits your budget. Remember, the right fraud prevention tool will not only save you money but also protect your reputation and customer trust.

 

  1. Check for Customer Support and Reliability

Fraud prevention is a 24/7 concern, so you need tools that come with reliable customer support. In the event of an issue or suspected fraud attack, quick assistance can make all the difference. Look for providers that offer round-the-clock support through multiple channels, such as live chat, email, and phone.

 

  1. Research Reviews and Case Studies

Before finalizing your decision, research customer reviews and case studies to understand how the fraud prevention tool has performed for other businesses. Pay attention to feedback from businesses similar to yours, as this can provide valuable insights into the tool’s effectiveness and ease of use.

 

Conclusion

Choosing the right fraud prevention tools for your e-commerce business is a critical step in safeguarding your operations, customers, and reputation. By understanding the types of fraud, identifying your business needs, and prioritizing features like real-time detection, scalability, and user authentication, you can find a solution that offers comprehensive protection.Investing in the right tools is not just about reducing losses—it’s about fostering trust and ensuring a secure shopping experience for your customers. When evaluating options, consider providers that specialize in ecommerce fraud solutions, as they are tailored to meet the unique challenges of online retail. With the right tools in place, you can focus on growing your business while staying one step ahead of fraudsters.

Kinore Named Xero Ireland Partner of the Year 2025 For the Fifth Year Running

Kinore, formerly known as Accountant Online, a leading cloud accounting and advisory firm, has been awarded Xero Ireland Partner of the Year 2025, marking the fifth year in a row the firm has received this accolade.

The award, presented by Xero, a global leader in cloud-based accounting software, recognises outstanding performance, innovation, and commitment to excellence in delivering cloud accounting services. Kinore’s consistent recognition is a testament to its expertise, personalised client support, and full-service finance and business support that leverages technology to provide innovative, client-focused solutions.

Members of the Kinore team pictured at the XERO Awards, where the business was awarded Xero Ireland Partner of the Year 2025 for the fifth year in a row.

Accepting the award, Kinore’s founder and CEO, Larissa Feeney said:

“We’re delighted to receive this award for the fifth consecutive year. It’s a strong reflection of the consistent effort and high standards our team brings to their work, and the steady growth we’ve achieved as a business. Recognition like this reinforces our commitment to delivering excellent service and continuing to move forward, year after year. A sincere thank you to our team for their professionalism and dedication, and to our clients for their continued trust.”

Members of the Kinore team pictured  at a recent awards’ ceremony

Since launching in 2017, Kinore has seen impressive growth, with an average annual revenue increase of 30% serving over 2,500 clients across Ireland and the UK. CEO, Larissa Feeney’s visionary approach is highlighted by the development of MyKinore, the company’s onboarding platform, which has streamlined operations, enhanced client experiences and positioned Kinore as a leader in digital transformation. 

In 2024, the company rebranded to Kinore to better reflect its evolution and the expanding range of services it provides. The rebrand underscores Kinore’s future ambitions, with projections indicating the firm is on track to achieve €15 million in revenue by 2028 (currently €4.1million). The company is expanding its service offerings, providing clients with outsourced financial management, bookkeeping, payroll services, and more, ensuring businesses have the tools to thrive in a competitive business landscape.

Kinore’s founder and CEO, Larissa Feeney

In addition to winning the Xero Award, Kinore was also shortlisted in five categories for the Irish Accountancy Awards. Additionally, Kinore has been recognised in the Digital Transformation & AI Awards, with nominations for Best Customer Experience Impact, Best Operational Impact, and Best Digital Transformation in Financial & Professional Services for the My Kinore Platform.

As Kinore looks ahead, the team remains committed to delivering forward-thinking, people-first solutions for businesses across Ireland and beyond.

For more information about Kinore, visit www.kinore.com

 

Tech Solutions That Boost Business Search Rankings

Visibility in search results can often be the difference between business growth and stagnation. Companies across industries invest heavily in strategies to appear higher in search rankings, knowing that their discoverability depends on it. With search technologies advancing rapidly and customer behaviors shifting toward voice commands, image queries, and conversational AI, traditional SEO tactics are no longer sufficient on their own. Businesses looking to improve their position must adopt a range of modern digital tools. These tech-driven solutions aren’t just trends—they shape the way search engines interpret, rank, and present content. From structured data to machine learning-driven analytics, new tools are pushing businesses into a new age of search relevance.

Climbing the Ranks with Smarter Optimization Tools

Securing a prominent place in search results demands more than just keywords. Smart SEO platforms now integrate AI to analyze competitor strategies, monitor ranking shifts, and make predictive recommendations. These tools identify gaps in content and detect technical errors that might be weighing down a site. To gain visibility in AI Search Results, businesses need their pages to speak the language of intelligent crawlers and virtual assistants. These systems rely heavily on structured content, conversational phrasing, and relevance scoring models. Voice search optimization, schema markup, and FAQ-style content are now integral parts of staying ahead in both traditional and AI-enhanced search environments.

Structured Data: Speaking Directly to Search Engines

Search engines work best when they can quickly understand a page’s content. That’s where structured data comes in. By using markup formats like JSON-LD or Microdata, businesses help search engines parse the purpose of each section. A product listing with structured data might show availability, price, and reviews directly in search results. These rich snippets make listings more engaging and trustworthy. They reduce ambiguity and improve the chances of being featured in a knowledge panel, map pack, or carousel. Retailers, local businesses, and content publishers alike benefit from improved accuracy in how their information is interpreted and ranked.

Optimizing for Mobile and Page Experience

Mobile responsiveness isn’t just a design choice—it’s a search requirement. With most queries now coming from mobile devices, search engines have adopted mobile-first indexing. This means they look at the mobile version of a website before anything else. If a page loads slowly, doesn’t fit on small screens, or buries important information behind poor navigation, its chances of ranking drop. Tools like Google’s PageSpeed Insights and Core Web Vitals reports show which elements hurt usability. Simple tweaks like compressing images, eliminating render-blocking scripts, or improving server response time can lead to noticeable gains in performance metrics and, in turn, rankings.

AI Content Generation and Its Impact on Visibility

Content still drives SEO, but producing it manually at scale is resource-heavy. AI writing tools now support content teams by drafting outlines, suggesting headlines, or creating full articles. These systems use natural language generation models trained on billions of text samples to mimic human tone and structure. When paired with editorial oversight, AI-generated content can target long-tail keywords and answer niche questions, improving relevance and coverage. Businesses using these tools efficiently expand their content footprint without overwhelming their teams. Over time, this leads to higher engagement rates and better indexing across more topics.

Local SEO Technologies for Regional Growth

Local businesses rely on appearing in location-based searches to attract foot traffic or phone inquiries. Tools like Google Business Profile, Moz Local, and Yext make it easier to manage and sync business details across directories. These platforms check for consistency in name, address, phone number, and hours, which is a major trust factor for search engines. Review management is another critical piece. Systems that request, monitor, and respond to reviews not only improve credibility but also signal activity to search engines. Heatmaps and location-based insights offer another level of intelligence, helping identify search trends and customer movement across cities or neighborhoods.

Analytics Platforms That Turn Data into Action

Knowing how users interact with your website, where they come from, and which paths lead to conversion informs every search ranking strategy. Platforms like Google Analytics, SEMrush, and Ahrefs offer real-time data on traffic sources, bounce rates, backlinks, and more. With attribution models and goal tracking, businesses can tie search visibility directly to revenue or lead generation. Heatmaps and session recordings expose points of friction in the user journey, revealing where improvements are needed. Over time, this feedback loop helps refine both content and structure, supporting higher rankings through continuous iteration.

Technology is no longer optional for those aiming to rise in search rankings. Each tool—from AI-driven content generators to mobile performance optimizers—plays a distinct role in building search presence. The integration of structured data, regional tools, responsive design, and precise analytics transforms digital strategy from guesswork into a calculated, ongoing effort. Those who invest in the right solutions position themselves for better visibility, increased trust, and greater engagement in the ever-shifting realm of search.

 

The Ultimate Guide to Finding Top Smart Contract Auditors

Among the most pressing concerns of blockchain technology is the reliability of smart contracts. For that reason, finding effective and trustworthy smart contract auditors can leverage blockchain technology.

These firms will guarantee that contracts are free of vulnerabilities and have been developed following best practices. Read on to explore how to identify top auditors in the field, the significance of their role, and the key factors to consider during the selection process.

Identify Reputable Auditing Firms

The first step in your search should be to look for established auditing firms with a good track record. Pay close attention to projects they have audited in the past and the feedback associated with their services. Read reviews and testimonials from other businesses that can offer clarity into the firm’s capabilities and quality of service. Take a look at any open-source audits the firm has performed; this transparency indicates their commitment and expertise in the field.

Review a firm’s credentials and experience. Reliable smart contract auditing firms will have certified professionals with industry experience and an understanding of the programming languages used in most smart contracts. This knowledge contributes to their ability to identify potential risks.

Evaluate Auditors’ Methodologies

Different firms utilize various techniques to evaluate smart contracts. Some may rely on automated tools; others employ manual review processes. A combination of both is the most effective approach to thoroughly assess potential vulnerabilities. An effective auditor should utilize industry-standard best practices. These techniques include static analysis, formal verification, and dynamic analysis.

Inquire about their approach to testing, which should include vulnerability checks and forms of penetration testing. Robust methodologies will identify security flaws and optimize contract performance. Know that the turnaround time for audits should be clarified upfront. Efficient audits should be conducted within reasonable periods so that you can proceed with your project timelines.

Review Case Studies and Audit Reports

A good way to determine the effectiveness of a smart contract auditor is by reviewing their past case studies and audit reports. High-quality audit reports provide insight into the thoroughness of an auditor’s evaluation process. They should clearly outline the issues identified, their impact, and detailed recommendations for mitigation.

If you can access reports for previous projects, you can gauge how transparent and comprehensive the auditor is. Consider the complexity and scope of projects they have worked on; if an auditor has dealt with large decentralized finance (DeFi) platforms or non-fungible token (NFT) markets, they are likely to have honed valuable expertise. A well-documented audit report can demonstrate their capacity to navigate complex smart contract issues.

Look at Security Certifications

Many auditing firms strive to achieve industry certifications related to cybersecurity, blockchain technology, or programming languages. Having these certifications can foster trust and confirm that the auditors follow stringent processes and guidelines. Certifications such as ISO/IEC 27001 denote proficiency in information security management systems.

Firms that regularly participate in industry events and contribute to security research gain credibility and visibility, allowing you to have more faith in their expertise. Look into their partnerships or affiliations within the blockchain community. Collaborations with reputable organizations or developers can provide additional trust, indicating that they are respected within the industry.

 

Assessing the credibility and skills of smart contract auditors can secure your blockchain projects. By identifying reputable auditing firms, evaluating their methodologies, and reviewing past reports, you can guarantee the integrity of your smart contracts. Finding a trustworthy audit firm is all about creating a secure and reliable space where blockchain technology can flourish.

Ireland’s Startups Lead Europe in AI Adoption

Ireland’s startup ecosystem is setting the pace for AI adoption in Europe, according to a new AWS report titled “Unlocking Ireland’s AI Potential 2025”.  The report, based on survey data of 1,000 Irish businesses, highlights how agile Irish startups are rapidly integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into their core operations, with 36% of Irish startups embedding AI at the core of their business model, higher than the 29% European average.

Irish startups are also seeing measurable gains from this adoption, with 94% of Irish businesses reporting a significant increase in revenue thanks to adopting AI, with an average 36% revenue increase directly linked to their use of AI.

“The data in this report aligns closely with our observations in the field – Irish startups are demonstrating a strong commitment to integrating emerging technologies,” said Niamh Gallagher, AWS Country Lead for Ireland. “Many of these companies clearly recognise that AI is becoming increasingly important for maintaining competitiveness, attracting investment, and pursuing global expansion opportunities.”

During the AWS Gen AI Loft Dublin tour, Niamh Gallagher met with Niamh Smyth, Minister for the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment with special responsibility for Trade Promotion, Artificial Intelligence and Digital Transformation. The Minister was presented the “Unlocking Ireland’s AI Potential 2025” report and taken through the key findings. During the event, leading Irish startup founders shared how AI is already transforming their industries.

Minister Smyth, praising the role of startups in Ireland’s AI leadership, said “These findings make it clear that startups are central to Ireland’s digital future,” she said. “They’re leveraging AI not only to grow, but to lead the transformation of entire industries—from safety tech to genomics and climate solutions.”

“This report validates our approach to keeping children safe online,” said Rena Maycock, founder of Chirp, a safety-focused tech company. “Using GenAI to enhance our datasets has enabled us to detect and block harmful communications and offer real-time protection for children and families—something that simply wouldn’t be possible with conventional tech alone.”

“At Jentic, we’re building AI-native infrastructure for the agent era, enabling AI agents to dynamically discover, load, and execute the exact tools they need, precisely when they need them,” said Dorothy Creaven, Chief Operating Officer of Jentic. “This report reinforces what we’re seeing every day: Ireland’s startups are not just adopting AI, they’re pushing the boundaries of how AI is applied at scale.”

“The report reflects what we’re seeing on the ground,” added Sean Mullaney, Founder & CEO of Seapoint. “AI isn’t just enhancing finance tools—it’s fundamentally changing how startups manage money, make strategic decisions, and scale. It’s enabling us to build the intelligent financial home we always wished we had.”

Across Ireland, businesses are integrating AI at an accelerating pace, with 45% now using AI, marking a 32% growth in just one year, up from 34% last year. This growth is outpacing the European average, where, overall, 42% of businesses are now consistently using AI at a growth rate of 27%.

The report also found that Irish businesses reported a 25% year-on-year increase in AI investment, exceeding the European average of 22%.

Wide, but shallow adoption: The two-tier economy

Many businesses, particularly large enterprises, are not leveraging the most advanced uses of AI. This risks a two-tier AI economy between startups and large enterprises. The research identifies three distinct stages of AI adoption in Ireland, outlining the gap between businesses that are merely experimenting with AI and those that are fully embedding it into their operations for transformative impact.

Stage 1: First steps

  • Two thirds (66%) of Irish businesses are in the early stages of AI adoption, primarily using publicly available chatbots or basic AI tools for routine tasks (e.g., chatbots, scheduling assistants)
  • Large enterprises are slow to progress beyond basic AI applications with 83% remaining at the most basic stage of AI integration

Stage 2: Transformation

  • The divide between startups and large enterprises becomes pronounced at this stage. Startups continue to set the standard on AI integration—25% are currently at this stage and exploring how they can integrate AI more deeply within their organisations, more than triple that of large businesses (7%).

Stage 3: Strategic Innovation

  • A small proportion of businesses are at this stage and are using AI not just to improve efficiencies, but also as a fundamental pillar of their strategy. 26% of startups have reached stage 3, integrating AI across operations, compared to only 8% of large businesses.
  • (17%) of businesses at this stage are building custom AI systems or apps tailored to their specific needs, and additionally, 17% of businesses report full AI integration, where AI is seamlessly embedded across operations.

“This report highlights the remarkable pace of innovation in today’s startup ecosystem,” said Tricia Troth, General Manager, Startups UK & Ireland at AWS. “We’re seeing startups move beyond AI experimentation to implement practical, strategic applications. The data shows how founders are increasingly focused on integrating AI into their long-term growth and scaling strategies.”

Read the report in full HERE

Bank of Ireland launches Sustainable Business Coach online platform for SMEs

Bank of Ireland has launched its new Sustainable Business Coach online platform, a free digital tool designed to support SME business customers with sustainability planning and to identify their ESG priorities.

Sustainable Business Coach, which is unique in the Irish market, is designed as an ESG questionnaire with businesses answering a series of multiple-choice questions. The results of the online assessment, which can be conducted at a pace that suits each business, provides a concise summary of their current sustainability position and covers key action areas such as:

  • Greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions
  • Employee engagement
  • Energy usage
  • Procurement
  • Water & waste management

Recent research conducted by Bank of Ireland revealed that a majority of SMEs are unclear on how to implement sustainable growth plans, with over 70% concerned about the impact ESG requirements could have on their own enterprises. Sustainable Business Coach provides SMEs with a structured roadmap to make meaningful progress in the sustainability space, with the online platform underpinned by a globally recognised framework based on the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals.

The launch of the easily accessible and free-of charge Sustainable Business Coach further enhances Bank of Ireland’s ESG ambitions, with the Bank on track to deliver its end-2025 sustainability-related lending target of €15 billion earlier than anticipated.

John Feeney, CEO, Corporate and Commercial, Bank of Ireland said: “‘Bank of Ireland is delighted to launch a new, free digital sustainability tool focused on Irish SMEs. Many of our business customers face time and resource challenges. Our goal is to deliver an easy-to-use online tool that can provide businesses with a practical and quick plan to support sustainability decision making.”

To find out more about the Bank of Ireland Sustainable Business Coach please click here: Bank of Ireland – Sustainability Coach