Microsoft has been awarded the Special Recognition Award by IDA Ireland, recognizing the tech company’s substantial contributions to the country’s economy and society. The award celebrates Microsoft’s 40th year in Ireland and commemorates the company’s ongoing commitment and investment in the region.
The IDA Special Recognition Award acknowledges companies that have significantly influenced the Irish economy. Microsoft joins previous recipients such as Pfizer, Apple, and Google. The award was presented on March 3rd by Taoiseach Micheál Martin to Brad Smith, Microsoft’s vice-chair and president.
Taoiseach Martin highlighted Microsoft’s long-standing presence in Ireland as a testament to the country’s attractiveness for international business. He noted that Microsoft’s decision to expand its operations in Ireland has greatly contributed to the development of a vibrant and innovative tech ecosystem over the past four decades, with significant economic and social impacts.
Smith emphasized the pivotal role of Microsoft’s Irish operations in driving innovation and transformation throughout the European Union. Dublin serves as a major European hub for the tech giant, employing over 4,000 people. The Irish operations provide software development, engineering, data center services, and crucial support services for the EMEA region.
“For four decades, Microsoft has shared a special relationship with the people and Government of Ireland,” Smith remarked. Last November, Microsoft announced a strategic investment in its Irish operations, creating 550 new engineering and R&D roles, these roles are involved in pioneering the development of new AI technologies.
Michael Lohan, the CEO of IDA Ireland, stated, “Our Special Recognition Award celebrates the substantial contributions our client companies make to the Irish economy and to the people of Ireland. Foreign direct investment continues to be a substantive driver of the Irish economy. Microsoft is one such company and is a very deserving winner of our Special Recognition Award 2025.” He added that IDA Ireland and Microsoft had built a long-standing partnership and looked forward to continued collaboration.
