Skillnet Ireland Business Networks Celebrate Milestones in Landmark Year

Skillnet Ireland is marking a landmark year for enterprise-led workforce development, as 10 Skillnet Business Networks celebrate milestone anniversaries in 2026, collectively spanning decades of delivering impact for businesses, employees and the wider economy.  

The milestone celebrations come at a pivotal moment, following the launch of Skillnet Ireland’s new Statement of Strategy, ‘Empowering Enterprise 2026–2028: A Strategy for Next Generation Capability’, which sets out an ambitious roadmap for strengthening Ireland’s competitiveness in a rapidly evolving global economy.   

As these 10 Networks mark their respective anniversaries, the milestones highlight not only past achievements but also the critical role Skillnet Ireland will continue to play in shaping Ireland’s workforce and supporting enterprise growth.  

Dave Flynn, Director of Business Networks, Skillnet Ireland, said: “The longevity and success of these Skillnet Business Networks demonstrate the power of enterprise-led collaboration in action. From the outset, these Networks have supported Irish businesses to build capability, respond to change and compete on a global stage. As we implement our new Statement of Strategy, we are focused on the future and dedicated to equipping businesses with the skills they need to harness opportunities in digitalisation, artificial intelligence and sustainability, and ensuring Ireland continues to thrive as a competitive, innovative and resilient economy.”  

In 2026, Waterford Chamber Skillnet is marking 25 years in existence. BioPharmaChem Skillnet; Design, Print & Packaging Skillnet; ICBE Business Excellence Skillnet; South Kerry Skillnet; Space Industry Skillnet and Technology Ireland ICT Skillnet are all celebrating 20 years. XL Vets Skillnet and Tech Northwest Skillnet are celebrating 15 years. CILT Mobility & Supply Chain Skillnet has reached the 10-year milestone, while Skillnet Climate Ready Academy – a Skillnet Ireland national initiative – is celebrating five years in operation.  

These Networks represent a diverse cross-section of Ireland’s economy, from regional SMEs to larger companies operating in sectors such as technology, life sciences and advanced manufacturing. From leadership development and digital skills to sector-specific technical expertise, Skillnet Business Networks have consistently supported companies to innovate, improve productivity and enhance competitiveness.  

Tommie Ryan, Network Manager of Waterford Chamber Skillnet, added: "Reaching 25 years is a truly humbling milestone, and one that belongs as much to the businesses we have had the privilege of supporting as it does to us. Since 2001, we have witnessed first-hand the resilience and determination of enterprises across Waterford and the South East, and it has been our honour to walk alongside them through every twist and turn. As part of Skillnet Ireland, we’ve been able to listen, adapt and respond to the ever-changing skills needs of local businesses, ensuring they have the tools, talent and confidence to innovate, grow and seize the opportunities that lie ahead." 

Established in 1999, Skillnet Ireland, the national talent development agency, plays a central role in advancing Ireland’s economic resilience by equipping businesses with the skills needed to adapt and thrive. Its enterprise-led model brings companies together through Skillnet Business Networks to identify and address shared workforce needs.  

This collaborative approach has enabled Irish enterprise to respond to major economic shifts, from globalisation and digitalisation to sustainability and, most recently, the emergence of artificial intelligence.  

Skillnet Ireland’s recently launched Statement of Strategy reinforces this model, focusing on enabling business transformation through digitalisation, AI and sustainability, while supporting up to 100,000 businesses by 2028 and expanding engagement with SMEs, start-ups and scaling companies.  

Any business in Ireland, of any size, across multiple sectors, can access upskilling and training supports through one of its Skillnet Business Networks or National Initiatives. Business Leaders are encouraged to contact either a sector-specific or regional Skillnet Business Network to discuss their future upskilling needs. A list of sector-specific and regional Skillnet Business Networks can be viewed on the Skillnet Ireland website, www.skillnetireland.ie/sectors.