Dublin, 18th December 2025 – Climb Channel Solutions Ireland, an international specialty technology distributor and wholly owned subsidiary of Climb Global Solutions, Inc. (NASDAQ: CLMB), today announces survey findings which show that 53% of AI/IT decision-makers think the innovation potential of AI outweighs the security concerns.

However, according to the survey – conducted by Censuswide and involving 600 AI/IT decision-makers in large enterprises across Ireland, the UK and Germany – a similar proportion (54%) are concerned about the security of AI tools, with respondents in Ireland most concerned (60%).

Overall, 56% of AI/IT decision-makers think organisations that use AI are more vulnerable to cyber-attacks and breaches, with the top security concerns related to AI usage found to be data privacy/security (36%), regulatory compliance (33%), and bias/discrimination (30%).

Despite these worries, over a third (36%) of companies do not have a policy in place to promote safe AI use. Furthermore, 39% of AI/IT decision-makers do not think their organisation has defined what data is suitable to be input into AI tools and some 54% have input confidential business or customer data into AI tools.

The research also found that while 55% of respondents are aware of the compliance requirements around AI use, 40% do not think their organisation’s AI strategy will be compliant with the EU Act.

In a similar vein to the innovation versus security risk finding, over half of AI/IT decision makers (57%) believe the sustainability opportunities of AI outweigh the associated risks, with 56% agreeing that AI can help meet ESG requirements/efforts.

Specifically, 55% see the ability of AI to analyse data as a means of predicting and managing environmental impacts. The same proportion say AI aids sustainability decision-making. This may explain why over half (55%) of organisations are also likely to increase their investment in AI-driven sustainability initiatives over the next three years.

On the other hand, 53% have identified sustainability risks associated with AI technologies. Moreover, 44% of companies do not have mechanisms in place to monitor and evaluate the sustainability impact of AI implementation and 39% do not measure environmental output/impact of AI solutions.

Brian Davis, VP of Sales, UK & Ireland, Climb Channel Solutions Ireland, said: “When it comes to AI, the potential for innovation needs to be balanced against security implications and environmental impacts. Whilst our research indicates a shift in mindset, with organisations acknowledging that the reward outweighs the risk, processes need to be put in place to support not only successful but safe and sustainable AI use.

“To address the multi-dimensional challenge of AI, companies need to identify use cases and acquire new skills. That’s why we launched the Skyward Project, a programme for channel partners which offers training through the Climb AI Academy and provides access to a powerful platform to support and scale implementation. The AI journey can be somewhat uncertain, but it’s certainly one worth taking given that the benefits towards business objectives and ESG goals are both apparent and transformative.”

About the survey

The research was conducted by Censuswide, among a sample of 600 AI/IT decision-makers and leaders in large enterprises across Ireland (250+ staff), the UK (500+ staff) and Germany (500+ staff) – 200 respondents per market. The data was collected in July/August 2025. Censuswide abides by and employs members of the Market Research Society and follows the MRS code of conduct and ESOMAR principles. Censuswide is also a member of the British Polling Council.

About Climb Channel Solutions Ireland

Climb Channel Solutions is a global specialty technology distributor focusing on Artificial Intelligence, Cloud, Cybersecurity, Data Management, Modern Workplace, and Software & Lifecyle Management. What sets Climb apart is our commitment to transform distribution by providing emerging and established IT technologies, flexible financing, real-time quoting, best of breed channel operations, speed to market, and exceptional service to our partners worldwide. Climb Channel Solutions is a wholly owned subsidiary of Climb Global Solutions (NASDAQ: CLMB). Experience the Climb difference and learn how our people-first approach empowers VARs and MSPs to grow, scale, and accelerate their business. Visit www.climbcs.ie and connect with us on LinkedIn.