Confidence remains strong among Irish SMEs, with many focused on growth and future investment. As businesses look ahead, the latest findings from PTSB's Reflecting Business report suggest that future growth will be shaped by a combination of talent, diverse workforces and technology.

While many SMEs are focused on expanding their businesses, the research highlights that access to the right skills remains a key priority. In particular, businesses are looking for stronger sales and marketing capability, financial expertise and leadership skills to help support their next phase of growth.

The findings also point to a strong belief in the value of people. More than nine in ten SMEs expect immigration to have a positive impact on their business, with many highlighting its role in expanding the workforce, bringing new perspectives and helping to address skills needs.

At the same time, businesses are increasingly embracing the opportunities presented by AI. Four in five SMEs believe it will have a positive impact on their business, particularly through improved speed, efficiency and productivity. However, the research also shows that business owners want technology to enhance, rather than replace, the human element that remains central to building customer relationships and growing successful businesses

Ultimately, the report paints a picture of a business community that is optimistic about the future. Irish SMEs recognise the opportunities that technology can create, but they are equally clear that people, skills and fresh thinking will remain at the heart of sustainable growth. The businesses most likely to succeed will be those that bring these elements together, combining human capability with innovation to unlock their full potential.

Read the full Reflecting Business report here.