Training and upskilling are key to keeping businesses competitive
When businesses cultivate a top-class workforce they are positioned to grow through the economic opportunities presented by hi-tech innovation, digitalisation and the green transition.
Whatever the size of your company, from micro through SME to FDI, you can get in touch with one of our 70 Skillnet Business Networks or national initiatives, to find upskilling solutions for your team. Skillnet Ireland currently partners with 57 industry bodies, supports over 24,000 businesses, and trains more than 90,000 people annually.
Strategic Focus Areas
The focus areas for upskilling are based on research carried out by the Irish Government and Skillnet Ireland in the area of skills and lifelong learning. With the aim of supporting Irish businesses to become stronger and more competitive through upskilling, these focus areas are at the centre of everything we do and form the building blocks for the creation of all of our upskilling and reskilling programmes and initiatives.
For businesses today, embracing technology is a need rather than a choice. Whether you’re developing tech skills for your team, taking your business online or embracing the latest automation technology, our Skillnet Business Networks and National Inititiaves can support you on your digital journey.
As one of the greatest social, cultural and economic transformations, the importance of sustainable development will impact every business. Through our dedicated upskilling programmes and supports, delivered through our Networks and Initiatives, Skillnet Ireland supports businesses to develop the range of sustainability skills needed to be climate ready.
Competing globally demands unique skills. We support SMEs, large indigenous companies and multinational companies in Ireland in understanding the changing skills landscape and create bespoke talent strategies – empowering them to innovate, grow and achieve their business goals.
Effective leadership is vital for a business. Our Skillnet Business Networks and our dedicated Skillnet MentorsWork programme offer bespoke support to help you understand and develop the leadership capabilities you and your team need to succeed.
Adapting to the fast pace of technological change with Sligo Chamber Skillnet
Ward Automation, a Sligo-based manufacturer of advanced automation solutions, partnered with Sligo Chamber Skillnet to keep pace with rapid technological change. Since 2015, the company has participated in over 15 upskilling programmes, including a major Enterprise Resource Programme that trained 35 staff in a critical area. This ongoing training has strengthened the business, boosted employee satisfaction, and supported staff retention, helping Ward Automation remain competitive in a fast-evolving industry.
