FAQS

Our aim is to be the go-to place for all blockchain-related news, queries and information for Ireland, so we will be focusing on curating relevant content and making it available on the website in a usable form.  Our core content is built on informing users about events, meetups, conferences, training courses and relevant news on blockchain-related developments in Ireland. We also aim to connect those with questions on the blockchain ecosystem in Ireland to those with the answers.

Both local and multinational companies are investing in blockchain-related developments with local and globally-sourced talent developing capabilities in Ireland. The technology and research sector in Ireland is well-developed and the global technology firms are inspirational role-models for the start-up industry. The proximity and ‘cluster effect’ of technology firms, international companies, local firms, industry bodies, government institutions and universities is unique in Ireland.

We strongly believe that Ireland’s offer to the global blockchain ecosystem is unique, as are the offers of other global jurisdictions.  Rather than viewing other blockchain-related national and international groups as competitors, we view them as complementary. Some blockchain-related ventures and initiatives require only a home jurisdiction with  regulatory and tax certainty, whereas other ventures, whether corporate or startup, need an entire business model. We like to think that Ireland offers the latter.

Ireland is a global technology hub - nine of the top ten global technology firms and all ten of the top ‘born on the internet’ companies’ operate in Ireland.  Also, Ireland features a large, highly-skilled and multicultural workforce which makes Ireland a great place to set up multi-functional teams focusing on multiple global regions.  Ireland’s EU membership means quick and easy access to over 500 million customers, and the 12.5% corporate tax rate combined with government support for innovation and 25% R&D tax credits make Ireland a commercially compelling option as well.

One of the core objectives of the Irish Blockchain Expert group is to inform government policy on legislative and regulatory change.  As such, the make up of our group reflects this objective with participation by government representatives. Through our ongoing work, we will continue to engage with policymakers to help inform them as their views evolve on the appropriate regulatory and tax framework for blockchain-related activities.

While our participants include those that can help incubate and accelerate blockchain-related businesses in Ireland, the Irish Blockchain Expert Group and the Blockchain Ireland website are reflective of an industry body rather than a commercial advisor.