Expanding regional network involves six innovation hubs across the country
Trade
Conor Carmody, Skillnet Innovation Exchange
A report from Skillnet Innovation Exchange has revealed that the national initiative, which provides support to businesses both large and small by connecting larger companies facing innovation challenges with SMEs that can fast-track solutions, has generated over €5 million in SME deal flow since it was launched in February 2022.
The findings of the independent impact assessment, authored by KHSK Economic Consultants, showed that Skillnet Innovation Exchange had delivered 6,000 training days and established a nationwide footprint through a regional partner network, forming the basis of a vibrant innovation ecosystem.
Skillnet Innovation Exchange is Ireland’s marketplace for innovation connecting companies facing digital transformation challenges with innovative SMEs. The findings were unveiled at The Innovation Summit, Skillnet Innovation Exchange’s national gathering held in Galway, where more than 200 members of Ireland’s innovation community met to explore collaborative innovation, competitiveness and digital transformation.
Conor Carmody, director of Skillnet Innovation Exchange (pictured), said: “Skillnet Innovation Exchange has shown that it can make a meaningful contribution to Ireland’s competitiveness by supporting innovation development and accelerating its adoption. With a strong foundation, a proven model and a track record of delivery, Skillnet Innovation Exchange is very well positioned to build on momentum achieved to date.”
To date, 30 deals have been completed through Skillnet Innovation Exchange, with that number expected to grow substantially by year-end. The total value of these collaborations stands at approximately €5 million, with further follow-on agreements already under discussion.
With it becoming increasingly clear that reporting of sustainability data is now a critical factor in winning contracts and staying competitive, Skillnet Innovation Exchange launched Digital for Sustainability, a new industry-led initiative designed to help Irish businesses to meet growing demands for ESG data from supply chains, procurement teams, investors and regulators.
Skillnet Innovation Exchange’s expanding regional network, involves six innovation hubs – 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 – which allows it to roll out over 50 national and regional events per annum, facilitating training and networking for members.
It has strategic partnerships with Sport Ireland (Digital for Sport) and Research Ireland (Discovery Exchange).
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