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 has 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 collection of businesses that collaborate on learning and training opportunities to address skills gaps within their sector or region.
Launching the campaign, Paul Healy, chief executive of Skillnet Ireland, says the 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 some 18,000 businesses engaging with Skillnet Ireland to avail of subsidised training and development through Skillnet Networks, such as local learning networks, Galway Executive Skillnet, Gréasán na Meán Skillnet and ITAG Skillnet.
New network applicants receive one-to-one support and consultation throughout the process, including virtual information sessions and workshops before the closing date for funding applications on November 5. Interested parties are encouraged to visit www.skillnetireland.ie/funding for more information.
