Taoiseach launches partnership in Cork between Skillnet and Republic of Work

Partnership will allow solution providers within the region to engage with large companies seeking innovative solutions

Taoiseach Micheál Martin with Skillnet Ireland's chief executive Mark Jordan, Skillnet head of partnerships Sinead O'Riordan; Skillnet director Conor Carmody and Republic of Work CEO Frank Brennan at the launch of the new partnership.

A partnership between the Skillnet Innovation Exchange and the Republic of Work in Cork will look to bolster the region as a centre for innovation, technology, and business excellence.

The partnership was officially announced by Taoiseach Micheál Martin on Monday. The partnership will allow globally ambitious solution providers within the southern region to pitch to, and engage with, large companies seeking innovative solutions.

“This welcome initiative connects our homegrown SMEs with larger companies so they can collaborate and work together on exciting, innovative projects,” said Mr Martin.

Skillnet Ireland supported more than 3,500 businesses in Cork through upskilling programmes last year through its 70 business networks, Skillnet Ireland chief executive Mark Jordan said. "With this new partnership with the Republic of Work, we hope to not just continue, but grow those supports for businesses across Munster to forge a pipeline of talent with the strategic skills to make deals, create corporate growth, and prosper," Mr Jordan said. 

Skillnet Innovation Exchange is an innovation marketplace, connecting large companies facing digital transformation challenges, with technology solution providers that can fast-track their solutions. Republic of Work serves almost 200 companies.

"We are excited to partner with Skillnet Innovation Exchange, which has proven itself to be an agile and ambitious organisation bringing practical business support to companies through its unique model. We look forward to driving initiatives that will contribute to greater business competitiveness throughout Cork and the southern region," Republic of Work chief executive Frank Brennan said. 

Since 2022, Skillnet Innovation Exchange has partnered with regional hubs throughout the country, such as The Ludgate Hub in Skibbereen Cork, Platform 94 in Galway, The Mill, Drogheda, the RDI Hub in Kerry, and GreenTech HQ in Enniscorthy.