The technology consulting firm strengthens its services division with a strategic acquisition focused on data modernization and solutions with Snowflake
IBM has announced the acquisition of Hakkoda Inc., a firm specializing in data consulting and artificial intelligence, in a move that reinforces its commitment to becoming the go-to partner for companies looking to modernize their data infrastructures with a view to integrating artificial intelligence (AI)-based solutions. The deal, the financial details of which have not been disclosed, was officially closed on April 2.
Based in New York, Hakkoda is recognized for its expertise in migrating, modernizing, and monetizing large data repositories. Its close collaboration with Snowflake, where it is an elite partner, and with Amazon Web Services (AWS), positions it as a reference consulting firm for complex digital transformation projects in sectors such as financial services, public sector, healthcare, and life sciences.
Strengthening Data Consulting with Generative AI
According to IBM, the incorporation of Hakkoda will enhance the offerings of IBM Consulting, particularly its AI-driven delivery platform, IBM Consulting Advantage. This tool aims to increase consultants’ efficiency through generative AI solutions that accelerate data modernization projects.
“IBM is at the forefront of consulting through how we empower our consultants with AI,” said Mohamad Ali, senior vice president and head of IBM Consulting. “With Hakkoda’s expertise and its asset-centric delivery model, we will be able to deliver value to our clients more quickly in their transformation journey with AI.”
For his part, Erik Duffield, CEO and co-founder of Hakkoda, celebrated the agreement as “the ideal union at a critical moment for organizations that need to modernize their data.” He added that IBM provides the perfect environment to expand Hakkoda’s global impact in modern data-centric consulting.
A Booming Market
The market for business intelligence services is experiencing sustained growth. According to IDC, global spending on intelligent business services initiatives is expected to reach $243 billion by 2028, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 13%. Hakkoda’s acquisition strengthens IBM’s ability to compete in this landscape, offering robust and rapid solutions to migrate data to cloud platforms.
Specifically, Hakkoda holds hundreds of SnowPro certifications (both basic and advanced) and has been recognized as Partner of the Year in Healthcare & Life Sciences Services by Snowflake in 2024, and Partner of Innovation of the Year in System Integration in the Americas in 2023. Its approach is based on an asset-centric delivery model, which accelerates processes without sacrificing customization.
International Presence and Strategic Expansion
The acquisition also expands IBM Consulting’s international footprint by incorporating Hakkoda’s teams in the United States, Latin America, India, Europe, and the United Kingdom. This human capital enhances IBM’s ability to scale digital transformation projects across multiple regions and sectors.
In addition to providing technical expertise in Snowflake and AWS, Hakkoda has developed vertical solutions that align with current challenges in regulated sectors such as healthcare and financial services, where data governance and operational efficiency are key.
Conclusion: AI and Data as Pillars of Business Growth
The acquisition of Hakkoda by IBM represents another piece in the company’s strategy to lead the new wave of business transformation driven by artificial intelligence. In an environment where data is the most valuable asset, having the tools and expertise to manage it efficiently makes all the difference.
For IBM, it’s not just about adding technical capabilities, but also about offering a comprehensive proposition that combines strategic consulting, hybrid cloud platforms, and generative AI solutions, with a clear focus on key sectors and measurable results. With Hakkoda on board, IBM Consulting is positioned even more strongly at the center of this revolution.