Evaluation of the Cyber AI Hub Programme in Northern Ireland

The Cyber-AI Hub Programme, funded by the UK government, is being evaluated to assess its impact on Northern Ireland's cyber security sector. Launched in 2023, the programme aims to enhance the talent pool of cyber-AI professionals and improve the region's economic productivity. The evaluation, commissioned by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology, is conducted by Steer Economic Development and focuses on four components: the Cyber-AI Technologies Hub, the CSIT Doctoral Training Programme, NICYBER2025 Masters Bursaries, and the NI Cyber Security Snapshot. As of 2025, the cyber security sector in Northern Ireland has grown significantly, with employment increasing from 1,700 in 2019 to over 2,700. The programme is set to run until 2027, with a total funding of £14.9 million aimed at bolstering the local economy and innovation levels. The evaluation report follows an earlier assessment published in January 2025.

Key Points: • The Cyber-AI Hub Programme aims to enhance Northern Ireland's cyber security talent pool. • Employment in Northern Ireland's cyber security sector has increased from 1,700 in 2019 to over 2,700 in 2025. • The programme is funded with £14.9 million from government and partners, running until 2027.