Skillnet Ireland, the national workforce development agency, is set to receive €57million in Budget 2027 to support skills development for Irish businesses. The investment will be augmented by up to €25 in matched funding from employers, bringing total investment in workforce development through Skillnet Ireland to €82million in 2027.
Speaking after the Budget announcement Skillnet Ireland Chairperson, Brigid McManus said: “Over the past year, Skillnet Ireland has seen strong demand from businesses of all sizes for workforce development supports that help them to adapt to the environment, to innovate, and most importantly, to compete. We welcome Minister James Lawless’s commitment announced in today’s budget to address emerging skills needs in artificial intelligence and digital technologies. This reflects the future focused ambition required to secure Ireland’s competitiveness and will strengthen our collective capacity to develop a workforce equipped for the opportunities of an AI-driven economy.”
Through its 73 Skillnet Business Networks and national Initiatives, Skillnet Ireland will continue to support businesses of all sizes across the country to build competitiveness for businesses through the skills needed for a more digital, sustainable and strong economy.
Mark Jordan, Skillnet Ireland Chief Executive, said: “Across every sector, Irish enterprise is demonstrating remarkable ambition and success in the face of rapid technological and economic change. Skillnet Ireland is committed to being a strategic partner to employers across the country, in that journey. Our priority for 2027 is to continue to roll out our three-year strategy. Empowering Enterprise, A Strategy for Next Generation Capability 2026 - 2028, was developed to support enterprises to build the skills and capabilities to harness AI, accelerate digital transformation and respond to changing market demands. Ireland's competitiveness is built on the strength of its people, and our vision is to position Ireland as a world leader in enterprise-driven learning, so that Irish companies can innovate, build resilience and create sustainable prosperity across the economy."