Pictured at the launch of the Web 3 Industry Insights report, from left to right: Donna Boyne (Technology Ireland ICT Skillnet), Paul Hearns (PJH Consulting), Minister Robert Troy, and Susan Kelly (Technology Ireland ICT Skillnet). Photo credit: Kevin Meggs
Dublin, 27 May 2025 – A landmark report launched today at the Blockchain Ireland Summit outlines Ireland’s significant potential to become a global hub for Web3 development but stresses that immediate investment in skills and talent is critical to realise this ambition.
Titled “Industry Insights Report on Web3: Building a Skills and Talent Pipeline for the Coming Web3 Decade,” the research was spearheaded by Technology Ireland ICT Skillnet in partnership with Dublin City University (DCU), Atlantic Technological University (ATU), and Technology Ireland Ibec, funded under the Skillnet Ireland Industry Insights series.
Web3 represents the next evolution of the internet, defined by decentralisation, digital asset ownership, and self-sovereign identity. While early adopters are shaping its future, Ireland must act now to develop the cross-disciplinary skills needed to support innovation in this space.
The report sets out a roadmap for how Ireland can lead the next evolution of the internet – one defined by decentralisation, smart contracts, tokenised economies, and self-sovereign digital identity. While the Web3 ecosystem globally is still in flux, the race for skilled talent is already well underway.
Key findings from the report include:
- Talent Shortages Across the Stack: From blockchain devs to legal strategists and community builders, Ireland lacks the deep and diverse skills required to compete globally.
- Education Must Move Faster: Universities, industry and government must co-create agile learning pathways, including micro-credentials and immersive upskilling.
- Policy Bottlenecks Are Real: Ambiguity in taxation, digital asset treatment, and startup compliance is holding back innovation.
- Startups Are Scaling: Web3-native Irish startups are nearly doubling year on year – but need structured support to scale sustainably.
Commenting on the report, Una Fitzpatrick, Director of Technology Ireland, said: “Web3 has the potential to change how we work, how we play, and how we interact with vital services, for the betterment of all. This report will go a long way towards identifying the unique aspects of this wave of technological development to allow Ireland to become a centre for Web3 development and a world leader in developing the right skills and talent for a Web3 future.”
Lory Kehoe, Chair of Blockchain Ireland, added:“I strongly urge all stakeholders – industry, government, and education – to consider the report’s recommendations and work collectively to ensure Ireland becomes a global centre of excellence for Web3. The potential of Web3 to restore trust in digital services, empower individuals through self-sovereignty, and foster inclusivity through diverse talent is significant. Together, we can seize this opportunity to build a future that is not only technologically advanced but also equitable and sustainable.”
Speaking from the stage at the Blockchain Ireland Summit, Robert Troy, Minister of State at the Department of Finance, said: “We understand blockchain is about creating digital ecosystems and reducing friction in systems and empowering individuals through greater control over their assets and data. The Irish Government supports the responsible and sustainable development of blockchain technologies, and the broader digital asset ecosystem”
The report includes actionable recommendations for government, industry, and academia – from introducing Web3 micro-credentials to enhancing regulatory engagement and supporting inclusive ecosystem development.
Director of Technology Ireland ICT Skillnet, Dave Feenan, noted:“Web3 is more than a technology trend – it’s a seismic shift in how trust, identity, and value are built online. Ireland has the ecosystem and ambition, but we need coordinated investment in people and policy to lead in this new era. This report is our call to action.”
The full report is available to download by clicking here.
About Technology Ireland ICT Skillnet
Technology Ireland ICT Skillnet is a Government-backed business-support network, connecting teams and individuals from small and large companies to highly subsidised and cutting edge training in the latest technologies driving business development. Courses are uniquely co-developed with industry and academia, and span a range of areas including Artificial Intelligence, Software Development, Cybersecurity, Data Analytics, Cloud, Digital Transformation, and more.
About Skillnet Ireland
Skillnet Ireland is the national talent development agency of the Government of Ireland, responsible for advancing the competitiveness, productivity, and innovation of Irish businesses through enterprise-led talent development. Skillnet Ireland partners with 57 industry bodies, supporting over 26,600 businesses and more than 97,700 trainees annually. Skillnet Ireland is funded from the National Training Fund through the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science.
To learn more about Skillnet Ireland visit www.skillnetireland.ie