Minister of State at the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, Marian Harkin TD, has announced the latest regional expansion of Skillnet Innovation Exchange in Co Waterford through its regional partner, Greentech HQ.
Skillnet Innovation Exchange provides support to businesses both large and small by connecting larger companies facing innovation challenges with digital solution providers that can fast-track innovation. The partnership between Skillnet Innovation Exchange and Greentech HQ will bolster the business community in Co Waterford and the wider region, as a centre for innovation, technology, and business excellence.
Minister Marian Harkin said: “I’m delighted that Skillnet Innovation Exchange is extending its reach and influence into Co Waterford and in doing so, contributing to the competitiveness of ambitious SMEs in the region, while supporting larger companies with specific innovation challenges. Through initiatives like Skillnet Innovation Exchange, the Irish Government is supporting the digital transition across all sectors of the economy and ensuring businesses have the skills, tools, and opportunities needed to thrive in a digital world.”
Mark Jordan, Chief Executive, Skillnet Ireland, said: “The expansion of Skillnet Innovation Exchange in Co Waterford will deliver significant advantages for local businesses, providing much-coveted opportunities for solution providers to expand their commercial horizons and engage with larger corporations. I encourage local SMEs and larger companies in the region to engage with the Skillnet Innovation Exchange and take advantage of the many benefits it offers.”
Since 2022, Skillnet Innovation Exchange has delivered €5 million in SME deal flow, supported 80 corporate challenges resulting in 40 signed deals, provided over 6,000 training days, and established a strong nationwide partner network that underpins a vibrant innovation ecosystem.
The nationwide expansion of the national initiative offers more solution provider access to a wide range of benefits, including access to a readymade sales pipeline, upskilling and collaboration opportunities with large corporations.
Conor Carmody, Director, Skillnet Innovation Exchange, said: “The expansion of Skillnet Innovation Exchange across Ireland has created valuable opportunities for digital solution providers to collaborate with SMEs and large corporates, helping bridge the innovation divide and strengthen the national business ecosystem. We’re delighted to continue our partnership with Greentech HQ and to build new, impactful relationships with businesses in Co Waterford, while showcasing exceptional talent and supporting companies as they scale.”
Ian Mernagh, CEO, Greentech HQ, added: “Welcoming the Skillnet Innovation Exchange expansion into Co Waterford is a strong vote of confidence in the region’s innovation potential. Through our partnership with Skillnet Innovation Exchange, we are creating a practical pathway for SMEs and larger companies to collaborate, adopt digital solutions faster and build real commercial outcomes. This initiative strengthens the South East as a connected hub for innovation, talent and sustainable growth, and we look forward to supporting ambitious businesses across Waterford and the wider region as they scale.”
The Skillnet Innovation Exchange has more than 1,600 scaling solution providers members of the marketplace for innovation, demonstrating a significant appetite for the initiative. Since its formation, the national initiative has responded to numerous innovation challenges from companies such as InterSport Elverys, Horse Sport Ireland, Ryanair, Glanbia and many more.
To date, Skillnet Innovation Exchange has successfully partnered with regional hubs throughout the country, such as Republic of Work in Cork City, The Ludgate Hub in Skibbereen Cork, Platform 94 in Galway, The Mill, Drogheda, the RDI Hub in Kerry, and GreenTech HQ in Enniscorthy.
Scale-ups and corporates in the region are being encouraged by Skillnet Innovation Exchange to sign up at www.theinnovationexchange.ie.
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