Apply for funding and minimise skills shortages

Business groups and industry bodies are being encouraged to apply for funding to establish new Skillnet Ireland learning networks, to address talent needs and skills gaps within various sectors or regions.

With funding of up to €2 million available, the aim is to leverage upskilling and workforce development programmes to address the most pressing business challenges facing Irish organisations.

Skillnet Ireland recently launched its annual call for applications to set up new Skillnet learning networks aimed at meeting business challenges and developing a highly skilled workforce. A Skillnet network is a group of businesses that collaborate on learning and training opportunities to address skills gaps within their sector/region.

With 70 networks already in operation in sectors such as agri-food, aviation, medtech, engineering and construction, food and beverage, healthcare, hospitality and tourism, manufacturing, retail, technology and more, Skillnet Ireland is seeking applications from business groups in specific industries and regions which will complement the work already being carried out across its networks.

Launching the campaign, Paul Healy, Chief Executive, Skillnet Ireland said: “Our economy is being rapidly reshaped by the impact of Covid-19 and accelerated digitalisation. These trends are affecting how companies operate and the way work is organised.

“We are calling on business groups interested in establishing a learning network, either within a particular industry sector or region, to apply for funding to establish a new Skillnet network, giving businesses access to upskilling at a significantly subsidised cost. Lifelong learning has never been more relevant for business owners and employees as they need to adapt and learn new skills.”

Demand for upskilling rose by 25 per cent last year, with over 18,000 businesses engaging with Skillnet Ireland to avail of subsidised training and development through Skillnet Networks.

New network applicants receive one-to-one support and consultation throughout the process before the closing date for funding applications on 5 November. Interested parties should visit skillnetireland.ie/funding for more.