{"id":15819,"date":"2025-10-23T10:50:57","date_gmt":"2025-10-23T09:50:57","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/theinnovationexchange.ie\/?p=15819"},"modified":"2026-05-15T13:46:41","modified_gmt":"2026-05-15T12:46:41","slug":"skillnet-innovation-exchange-facilitates-e5-million-in-deals-done","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/theinnovationexchange.ie\/ga\/skillnet-innovation-exchange-facilitates-e5-million-in-deals-done\/","title":{"rendered":"Skillnet Innovation Exchange Facilitates \u20ac5 Million in Deals Done"},"content":{"rendered":"<div data-elementor-type=\"wp-post\" data-elementor-id=\"15819\" class=\"elementor elementor-15819\" data-elementor-post-type=\"post\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<section class=\"elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-4a668fc7 elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default wpr-particle-no wpr-jarallax-no wpr-parallax-no wpr-sticky-section-no wpr-column-slider-no wpr-equal-height-no\" data-id=\"4a668fc7\" data-element_type=\"section\" data-e-type=\"section\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-3d08d5cb\" data-id=\"3d08d5cb\" data-element_type=\"column\" data-e-type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-127db236 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"127db236\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Press release, Dublin, 23 October 2025:<\/strong>\u00a0A new report from Skillnet Innovation Exchange has revealed that\u00a0the 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\u00a0\u20ac5 million in SME deal flow since it was launched in February 2022.<\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" class=\"wp-image-15836\" src=\"https:\/\/theinnovationexchange.ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Conor-Impact-1024x576.jpg\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/theinnovationexchange.ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Conor-Impact-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/theinnovationexchange.ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Conor-Impact-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/theinnovationexchange.ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Conor-Impact-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/theinnovationexchange.ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Conor-Impact-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/theinnovationexchange.ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Conor-Impact.jpg 1600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The findings of the independent impact assessment, authored by KHSK Economic Consultants, shows that Skillnet Innovation Exchange has delivered\u00a06,000 training days and established a\u00a0nationwide footprint through a regional partner network, forming the basis of a vibrant innovation ecosystem.<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u00a0<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Skillnet Innovation Exchange is\u00a0<strong>Ireland\u2019s marketplace for innovation\u00a0<\/strong>connecting companies facing digital transformation challenges with innovative SMEs. The findings were unveiled at\u00a0<strong>The Innovation Summit<\/strong>, Skillnet Innovation Exchange\u2019s national gathering held in Galway, where more than 200 members of Ireland\u2019s innovation community met to explore collaborative innovation, competitiveness and digital transformation.<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u00a0<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Speaking at the event,\u00a0<strong>Ken Finnegan, Chief Strategy Officer, Skillnet Ireland<\/strong>, said: \u201cSkillnet Innovation Exchange is playing a vital role in strengthening Ireland&#8217;s competitiveness by equipping SMEs with the skills, capabilities, and connections they need to innovate and grow. By bridging the gap between enterprise and innovation, this initiative enables larger corporates to address their digital and sustainability challenges while creating tangible growth opportunities for smaller firms. The impact highlighted in this report demonstrates how this model is driving real economic value, fostering collaboration, and helping to future-proof Ireland\u2019s innovation ecosystem.\u201d \u00a0<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u00a0<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Conor Carmody, Director of Skillnet Innovation Exchange<\/strong>, said: \u201cWe are delighted to release this Impact Report at such a pivotal point for our initiative. Skillnet Innovation Exchange has shown that it can make a\u00a0meaningful contribution to Ireland\u2019s competitiveness\u00a0by 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.\u201d<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u00a0<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">According to the assessment, Skillnet Innovation Exchange provides SMEs with access to significant growth opportunities and exposure to prospective customers, while enabling larger organisations to discover and adopt cutting-edge solutions more efficiently. The report concludes that Skillnet Innovation\u00a0Exchange is\u00a0well positioned to scale further, driving national competitiveness and ensuring that more innovation and employment are created and retained in Ireland.<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u00a0<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>To date,\u00a030 deals\u00a0have been completed\u00a0<\/strong>through Skillnet Innovation Exchange, with that number expected to grow substantially by year-end. The total value of these collaborations stands at approximately\u00a0\u20ac5 million, with further follow-on agreements already under discussion.<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u00a0<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Three\u00a0<strong>new deals<\/strong>\u00a0were facilitated by the marketplace for innovation in this quarter:<\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>The Nestbox Egg Company &amp; Nualach Automation<\/strong>\u00a0\u2014 largest deal to date, valued at \u20ac800,000<\/li>\n\n<li><strong>Cycling Ireland &amp; Fit2Trade<\/strong>\u00a0\u2014 a partnership signed within ten days of the initial pitch<\/li>\n\n<li><strong>Cork County Council &amp; Decision Analytics<\/strong>\u00a0\u2013 a product solution meeting internal compliance requirements.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u00a0<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These join a growing list of successful partnerships that demonstrate the Exchange\u2019s ability to turn innovation challenges into commercial opportunities, including:<\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Intersport Elverys and EnergyElephant<\/strong>\u00a0\u2014 first Digital for Sustainablity deal<\/li>\n\n<li><strong>Astellas &amp; Pro-Reliability Solutions<\/strong>\u00a0&#8211; a unique partnership delivering compliance services.<\/li>\n\n<li><strong>Horsesport Ireland &amp; Miagen<\/strong>\u00a0\u2013 Digital for Sport deal.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u00a0<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Launch of \u2018Digital for Sustainability\u2019<\/strong><\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">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\u00a0Digital 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.<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Digital for Sustainability applies Skillnet Innovation Exchange\u2019s proven challenge framework to connect organisations with innovative digital solutions, including automation and analytics, that make sustainability reporting faster, smarter and more cost-effective.<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u00a0<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Expanding Regional Network<\/strong><\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">According to the KHSK Economic Consultants Impact Report, Skillnet Innovation Exchange is playing an important role in implementing regional policy and it strengthens the existing regional economic developing organisations.<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Skillnet Innovation Exchange has a strong national footprint and expanding regional network, currently involving six innovation hubs &#8211; 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\u00a0&#8211; which allows it to roll out over 50 national and regional events per annum, facilitating training and networking for members.<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u00a0It has strategic partnerships with Sport Ireland (Digital for Sport) and Research Ireland (Discovery Exchange).<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The outcomes outlined in the Impact Report reflect strong alignment with national priorities in\u00a0competitiveness, digital transformation, sustainability, talent development entrepreneurship as well as regional growth.<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Scale-ups and corporates in the region are being encouraged by Skillnet Innovation Exchange to sign up at\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/eur02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Ftaoiseach-gov-ie.fortimailcloud.com%2Ffmlurlsvc%2F%3FfewReq%3D%3AB%3AJVA0Pzg%2FNCh4MzwgPihnajM%2BPzQ%2BPyh9Z2lgb3p7fGszNzc3PG8%2Fam9oOjg9PT49bT43Pj0%2BPTs6Pz1oOTg2P21qOzk%2FPzhvOih6Mz85Ojk8Pzw2Pjcof2dqMzs6SzZ%2FX2lUPzw5Nzk6OyM7Oks2f19pbz88OTc5OjsofG1%2BejN%2BfGt9fSBhaGhnbWtOem9hZ31rb21mIGlheCBnayhtMzo3KGZqYjM%2B%26url%3Dhttps%253a%252f%252ftheinnovationexchange.ie%252f&amp;data=05%7C02%7Canne%40theinnovationexchange.ie%7C71f4f460e52140e80dc808de11b6e44a%7C2d1710900eb544518e80dc765e17fdb5%7C0%7C0%7C638967674386866222%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=BdxYRLFqbkiXrHFBwQRWSDvSi%2FIoLujQKjiYqPIx4y0%3D&amp;reserved=0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">www.theinnovationexchange.ie<\/a>.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>ENDS<\/strong><\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>For media queries contact:\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Oonagh Fox, Skillnet Innovation Exchange<\/strong><\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Tel: 087 8554406<\/strong><\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Email:\u00a0<\/strong><strong><u><a href=\"mailto:oonagh@theinnovationexchange.ie\">oonagh@theinnovationexchange.ie<\/a><\/u><\/strong><\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u00a0<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>About Skillnet Innovation Exchange<\/strong><\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Skillnet Innovation Exchange is an Irish innovation platform that brings together large corporations undergoing digital transformation with scaling SMEs that offer innovative solutions. Launched in 2022 in partnership with Furthr, the programme bridges the gap between the demand for new technologies and the supply of agile, homegrown tech capabilities. Corporates, present real-world transformation challenges. In turn, scaling Irish SMEs\u2014referred to as \u201csolution providers\u201d\u2014pitch solutions, fostering practical and impactful collaborations.\u00a0The programme operates nationally, supported by regional hubs such as Republic of Work in Cork, The Mill in Drogheda, GreenTechHQ in Wexford, Platform94 in Galway, RDI in Kerry and the Ludgate Hub in Skibbereen. This ensures SMEs from across Ireland have the chance to engage with corporates and scale their businesses. Since its launch, in excess of 70 innovation challenges have been issued, resulting in successful commercial partnerships.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">By facilitating direct engagement between corporate leaders and tech innovators, The Innovation Exchange drives mutual value: corporates access new digital capabilities quickly, while SMEs gain critical exposure, market insight, and commercial traction. It\u2019s a win-win initiative supporting the evolution of Ireland\u2019s digital economy and fostering a collaborative innovation ecosystem.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u00a0<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>About\u00a0<\/strong><strong><u><a href=\"https:\/\/eur02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fscanner.topsec.com%2F%3Fd%3D1777%26r%3Dshow%26u%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Ftaoiseach-gov-ie.fortimailcloud.com%252Ffmlurlsvc%252F%253FfewReq%253D%253AB%253AJVA0Pzg%252FNCh4MzwgPihnajM%252BPzQ%252BPyh9Z2lgb3p7fGszOWo8Pm88bDk7N2s5Oj9qbTY2Nz8%252Bb29sOTs8bWhvaGg3PThsOD07Nyh6Mz85Ojk8Pzw2Pjcof2dqMzs6SzZ%252FX2lUPzw5Nzk6OyM7Oks2f19pbz88OTc5OjsofG1%252BejN%252BfGt9fSBhaGhnbWtOem9hZ31rb21mIGlheCBnayhtMzo3KGZqYjM%252B%2526url%253Dhttps%25253a%25252f%25252fwww.skillnetireland.ie%25252f%26t%3D9841bffb06d1b3d997b154f5cc0e1e8a65603848&amp;data=05%7C02%7Canne%40theinnovationexchange.ie%7C71f4f460e52140e80dc808de11b6e44a%7C2d1710900eb544518e80dc765e17fdb5%7C0%7C0%7C638967674386887811%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=7PbxqpYwRz4qArb7FVCdhtjIXMP6VRMcIsY3L9duS38%3D&amp;reserved=0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Skillnet Ireland<\/a><\/u><\/strong>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<br \/>Skillnet Ireland is the national talent development agency of the Government of Ireland, responsible for advancing the competitiveness, productivity, and innovation of Irish businesses through enterprise-led talent development. Skillnet Ireland partners with 57 industry bodies, supporting over 24,000 businesses and more than 90,000 trainees annually, through its 70 Skillnet Business Networks and five National Initiatives &#8211; Skillnet Climate Ready Academy, Skillnet Innovation Exchange, Skillnet MMC Accelerate, Skillnet Offshore Wind Academy and MentorsWork &#8211; across most sectors and all regions in Ireland.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Skillnet Ireland is funded from the National Training Fund through the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To learn more about Skillnet Ireland visit\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/eur02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fscanner.topsec.com%2F%3Fd%3D1777%26r%3Dshow%26u%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Ftaoiseach-gov-ie.fortimailcloud.com%252Ffmlurlsvc%252F%253FfewReq%253D%253AB%253AJVA0Pzg%252FNCh4MzwgPihnajM%252BPzQ%252BPyh9Z2lgb3p7fGszODk3PTtqb21vOWw7bDxqPjxrOThtNjprOGs6Omptajw6bT1oPzdvPyh6Mz85Ojk8Pzw2Pjcof2dqMzs6SzZ%252FX2lUPzw5Nzk6OyM7Oks2f19pbz88OTc5OjsofG1%252BejN%252BfGt9fSBhaGhnbWtOem9hZ31rb21mIGlheCBnayhtMzY6KGZqYjM%252B%2526url%253Dhttps%25253a%25252f%25252feuc-word-edit.officeapps.live.com%25252fwe%25252fwww.skillnetireland.ie%26t%3D8b68cdbfcded18cf0684de256b89559156268bd3&amp;data=05%7C02%7Canne%40theinnovationexchange.ie%7C71f4f460e52140e80dc808de11b6e44a%7C2d1710900eb544518e80dc765e17fdb5%7C0%7C0%7C638967674386906691%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=YdSNKVTz%2FWbAdPM4w37mYDy9i43p6GRmAiD9yf0bF3w%3D&amp;reserved=0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">www.skillnetireland.ie<\/a>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<br \/>Skillnet Business Network search tool:\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/eur02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fscanner.topsec.com%2F%3Fd%3D1777%26r%3Dshow%26u%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Ftaoiseach-gov-ie.fortimailcloud.com%252Ffmlurlsvc%252F%253FfewReq%253D%253AB%253AJVA0Pzg%252FNCh4MzwgPihnajM%252BPzQ%252BPyh9Z2lgb3p7fGszaDxrNzw2ODo3Pjg3bGg8az43ODY2PT5qOTw9PWg%252Bajs6Omo9Nm07ayh6Mz85Ojk8Pzw2Pjcof2dqMzs6SzZ%252FX2lUPzw5Nzk6OyM7Oks2f19pbz88OTc5OjsofG1%252BejN%252BfGt9fSBhaGhnbWtOem9hZ31rb21mIGlheCBnayhtMzo3KGZqYjM%252B%2526url%253Dhttps%25253a%25252f%25252fwww.skillnetireland.ie%25252four-networks%25252f%26t%3D648cbc66fa8e60b83dffc510683193e73482b911&amp;data=05%7C02%7Canne%40theinnovationexchange.ie%7C71f4f460e52140e80dc808de11b6e44a%7C2d1710900eb544518e80dc765e17fdb5%7C0%7C0%7C638967674386924052%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=9OoQeSknRo9VzEjSP0o6PRVHvQP5vFtdlpoVkPZ8Jqc%3D&amp;reserved=0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/www.skillnetireland.ie\/our-networks\/<\/a>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Facebook: @SkillnetIreland\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<br \/>Twitter: @SkillnetIreland\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<br \/>LinkedIn:\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/eur02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fscanner.topsec.com%2F%3Fd%3D1777%26r%3Dshow%26u%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Ftaoiseach-gov-ie.fortimailcloud.com%252Ffmlurlsvc%252F%253FfewReq%253D%253AB%253AJVA0Pzg%252FNCh4MzwgPihnajM%252BPzQ%252BPyh9Z2lgb3p7fGszOjdsPDc2PDs7ajo4bDk7OD1tb2pqP285a2xsNzptbzw3P29sOzc6bSh6Mz85Ojk8Pzw2Pjcof2dqMzs6SzZ%252FX2lUPzw5Nzk6OyM7Oks2f19pbz88OTc5OjsofG1%252BejN%252BfGt9fSBhaGhnbWtOem9hZ31rb21mIGlheCBnayhtMzo3KGZqYjM%252B%2526url%253Dhttps%25253a%25252f%25252fwww.linkedin.com%25252fcompany%25252fskillnetireland%25252f%26t%3D7c27a9f8ea381b5ac3eb58d5d54519c2fac416d0&amp;data=05%7C02%7Canne%40theinnovationexchange.ie%7C71f4f460e52140e80dc808de11b6e44a%7C2d1710900eb544518e80dc765e17fdb5%7C0%7C0%7C638967674386944085%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=knMBhlsz6WoT8Vl3VHhgW0LnJBFH84WecRfESR%2FrdII%3D&amp;reserved=0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">www.linkedin.com\/company\/skillnetireland<\/a>\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u00a0<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<section class=\"elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-451c0b6 elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default wpr-particle-no wpr-jarallax-no wpr-parallax-no wpr-sticky-section-no wpr-column-slider-no wpr-equal-height-no\" data-id=\"451c0b6\" data-element_type=\"section\" data-e-type=\"section\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-e0cd212\" data-id=\"e0cd212\" data-element_type=\"column\" data-e-type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-0aa09e1 elementor-widget elementor-widget-button\" data-id=\"0aa09e1\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"button.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-button-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<a class=\"elementor-button elementor-button-link elementor-size-sm\" href=\"https:\/\/theinnovationexchange.ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Impact-Report-Skillnet-Innovation-Exchange.pdf\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"elementor-button-content-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"elementor-button-text\">Read the Full Impact Assessment of Skillnet Innovation Exchange here.<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Press release, Dublin, 23 October 2025:\u00a0A new report from Skillnet Innovation Exchange has revealed that\u00a0the 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\u00a0\u20ac5 million in SME deal flow since it was launched in February 2022. The findings of the independent impact assessment, authored by KHSK Economic Consultants, shows that Skillnet Innovation Exchange has delivered\u00a06,000 training days and established a\u00a0nationwide footprint through a regional partner network, forming the basis of a vibrant innovation ecosystem. \u00a0 Skillnet Innovation Exchange is\u00a0Ireland\u2019s marketplace for innovation\u00a0connecting companies facing digital transformation challenges with innovative SMEs. The findings were unveiled at\u00a0The Innovation Summit, Skillnet Innovation Exchange\u2019s national gathering held in Galway, where more than 200 members of Ireland\u2019s innovation community met to explore collaborative innovation, competitiveness and digital transformation. \u00a0 Speaking at the event,\u00a0Ken Finnegan, Chief Strategy Officer, Skillnet Ireland, said: \u201cSkillnet Innovation Exchange is playing a vital role in strengthening Ireland&#8217;s competitiveness by equipping SMEs with the skills, capabilities, and connections they need to innovate and grow. By bridging the gap between enterprise and innovation, this initiative enables larger corporates to address their digital and sustainability challenges while creating tangible growth opportunities for smaller firms. The impact highlighted in this report demonstrates how this model is driving real economic value, fostering collaboration, and helping to future-proof Ireland\u2019s innovation ecosystem.\u201d \u00a0 \u00a0 Conor Carmody, Director of Skillnet Innovation Exchange, said: \u201cWe are delighted to release this Impact Report at such a pivotal point for our initiative. Skillnet Innovation Exchange has shown that it can make a\u00a0meaningful contribution to Ireland\u2019s competitiveness\u00a0by 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.\u201d \u00a0 According to the assessment, Skillnet Innovation Exchange provides SMEs with access to significant growth opportunities and exposure to prospective customers, while enabling larger organisations to discover and adopt cutting-edge solutions more efficiently. The report concludes that Skillnet Innovation\u00a0Exchange is\u00a0well positioned to scale further, driving national competitiveness and ensuring that more innovation and employment are created and retained in Ireland. \u00a0 To date,\u00a030 deals\u00a0have been completed\u00a0through Skillnet Innovation Exchange, with that number expected to grow substantially by year-end. The total value of these collaborations stands at approximately\u00a0\u20ac5 million, with further follow-on agreements already under discussion. \u00a0 Three\u00a0new deals\u00a0were facilitated by the marketplace for innovation in this quarter: \u00a0 These join a growing list of successful partnerships that demonstrate the Exchange\u2019s ability to turn innovation challenges into commercial opportunities, including: \u00a0 Launch of \u2018Digital for Sustainability\u2019 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\u00a0Digital 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. Digital for Sustainability applies Skillnet Innovation Exchange\u2019s proven challenge framework to connect organisations with innovative digital solutions, including automation and analytics, that make sustainability reporting faster, smarter and more cost-effective. \u00a0 Expanding Regional Network According to the KHSK Economic Consultants Impact Report, Skillnet Innovation Exchange is playing an important role in implementing regional policy and it strengthens the existing regional economic developing organisations. Skillnet Innovation Exchange has a strong national footprint and expanding regional network, currently involving six innovation hubs &#8211; 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\u00a0&#8211; which allows it to roll out over 50 national and regional events per annum, facilitating training and networking for members. \u00a0It has strategic partnerships with Sport Ireland (Digital for Sport) and Research Ireland (Discovery Exchange). The outcomes outlined in the Impact Report reflect strong alignment with national priorities in\u00a0competitiveness, digital transformation, sustainability, talent development entrepreneurship as well as regional growth. Scale-ups and corporates in the region are being encouraged by Skillnet Innovation Exchange to sign up at\u00a0www.theinnovationexchange.ie.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 ENDS For media queries contact:\u00a0 Oonagh Fox, Skillnet Innovation Exchange Tel: 087 8554406 Email:\u00a0oonagh@theinnovationexchange.ie \u00a0 About Skillnet Innovation Exchange Skillnet Innovation Exchange is an Irish innovation platform that brings together large corporations undergoing digital transformation with scaling SMEs that offer innovative solutions. Launched in 2022 in partnership with Furthr, the programme bridges the gap between the demand for new technologies and the supply of agile, homegrown tech capabilities. Corporates, present real-world transformation challenges. In turn, scaling Irish SMEs\u2014referred to as \u201csolution providers\u201d\u2014pitch solutions, fostering practical and impactful collaborations.\u00a0The programme operates nationally, supported by regional hubs such as Republic of Work in Cork, The Mill in Drogheda, GreenTechHQ in Wexford, Platform94 in Galway, RDI in Kerry and the Ludgate Hub in Skibbereen. This ensures SMEs from across Ireland have the chance to engage with corporates and scale their businesses. Since its launch, in excess of 70 innovation challenges have been issued, resulting in successful commercial partnerships.\u00a0\u00a0 By facilitating direct engagement between corporate leaders and tech innovators, The Innovation Exchange drives mutual value: corporates access new digital capabilities quickly, while SMEs gain critical exposure, market insight, and commercial traction. It\u2019s a win-win initiative supporting the evolution of Ireland\u2019s digital economy and fostering a collaborative innovation ecosystem.\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0 About\u00a0Skillnet Ireland\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0Skillnet Ireland is the national talent development agency of the Government of Ireland, responsible for advancing the competitiveness, productivity, and innovation of Irish businesses through enterprise-led talent development. Skillnet Ireland partners with 57 industry bodies, supporting over 24,000 businesses and more than 90,000 trainees annually, through its 70 Skillnet Business Networks and five National Initiatives &#8211; Skillnet Climate Ready Academy, Skillnet Innovation Exchange, Skillnet MMC Accelerate, Skillnet Offshore Wind Academy and MentorsWork &#8211; across most sectors and all regions in Ireland.\u00a0 Skillnet Ireland is funded from the National Training Fund through the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science.\u00a0\u00a0 To learn more about Skillnet Ireland visit\u00a0www.skillnetireland.ie\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0Skillnet Business Network search tool:\u00a0https:\/\/www.skillnetireland.ie\/our-networks\/\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Facebook:&hellip;<\/p>","protected":false},"author":984,"featured_media":15836,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"content-type":"","inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[55],"class_list":["post-15819","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-news","tag-year-2025"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v28.0 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Skillnet Innovation Exchange Facilitates \u20ac5 Million in Deals Done - The Innovation Exchange<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/theinnovationexchange.ie\/ga\/skillnet-innovation-exchange-facilitates-e5-million-in-deals-done\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Skillnet Innovation Exchange Facilitates \u20ac5 Million in Deals Done - The Innovation Exchange\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Press release, Dublin, 23 October 2025:\u00a0A new report from Skillnet Innovation Exchange has revealed that\u00a0the 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\u00a0\u20ac5 million in SME deal flow since it was launched in February 2022. The findings of the independent impact assessment, authored by KHSK Economic Consultants, shows that Skillnet Innovation Exchange has delivered\u00a06,000 training days and established a\u00a0nationwide footprint through a regional partner network, forming the basis of a vibrant innovation ecosystem. \u00a0 Skillnet Innovation Exchange is\u00a0Ireland\u2019s marketplace for innovation\u00a0connecting companies facing digital transformation challenges with innovative SMEs. The findings were unveiled at\u00a0The Innovation Summit, Skillnet Innovation Exchange\u2019s national gathering held in Galway, where more than 200 members of Ireland\u2019s innovation community met to explore collaborative innovation, competitiveness and digital transformation. \u00a0 Speaking at the event,\u00a0Ken Finnegan, Chief Strategy Officer, Skillnet Ireland, said: \u201cSkillnet Innovation Exchange is playing a vital role in strengthening Ireland&#8217;s competitiveness by equipping SMEs with the skills, capabilities, and connections they need to innovate and grow. By bridging the gap between enterprise and innovation, this initiative enables larger corporates to address their digital and sustainability challenges while creating tangible growth opportunities for smaller firms. The impact highlighted in this report demonstrates how this model is driving real economic value, fostering collaboration, and helping to future-proof Ireland\u2019s innovation ecosystem.\u201d \u00a0 \u00a0 Conor Carmody, Director of Skillnet Innovation Exchange, said: \u201cWe are delighted to release this Impact Report at such a pivotal point for our initiative. Skillnet Innovation Exchange has shown that it can make a\u00a0meaningful contribution to Ireland\u2019s competitiveness\u00a0by 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.\u201d \u00a0 According to the assessment, Skillnet Innovation Exchange provides SMEs with access to significant growth opportunities and exposure to prospective customers, while enabling larger organisations to discover and adopt cutting-edge solutions more efficiently. The report concludes that Skillnet Innovation\u00a0Exchange is\u00a0well positioned to scale further, driving national competitiveness and ensuring that more innovation and employment are created and retained in Ireland. \u00a0 To date,\u00a030 deals\u00a0have been completed\u00a0through Skillnet Innovation Exchange, with that number expected to grow substantially by year-end. The total value of these collaborations stands at approximately\u00a0\u20ac5 million, with further follow-on agreements already under discussion. \u00a0 Three\u00a0new deals\u00a0were facilitated by the marketplace for innovation in this quarter: \u00a0 These join a growing list of successful partnerships that demonstrate the Exchange\u2019s ability to turn innovation challenges into commercial opportunities, including: \u00a0 Launch of \u2018Digital for Sustainability\u2019 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\u00a0Digital 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. Digital for Sustainability applies Skillnet Innovation Exchange\u2019s proven challenge framework to connect organisations with innovative digital solutions, including automation and analytics, that make sustainability reporting faster, smarter and more cost-effective. \u00a0 Expanding Regional Network According to the KHSK Economic Consultants Impact Report, Skillnet Innovation Exchange is playing an important role in implementing regional policy and it strengthens the existing regional economic developing organisations. Skillnet Innovation Exchange has a strong national footprint and expanding regional network, currently involving six innovation hubs &#8211; 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\u00a0&#8211; which allows it to roll out over 50 national and regional events per annum, facilitating training and networking for members. \u00a0It has strategic partnerships with Sport Ireland (Digital for Sport) and Research Ireland (Discovery Exchange). The outcomes outlined in the Impact Report reflect strong alignment with national priorities in\u00a0competitiveness, digital transformation, sustainability, talent development entrepreneurship as well as regional growth. Scale-ups and corporates in the region are being encouraged by Skillnet Innovation Exchange to sign up at\u00a0www.theinnovationexchange.ie.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 ENDS For media queries contact:\u00a0 Oonagh Fox, Skillnet Innovation Exchange Tel: 087 8554406 Email:\u00a0oonagh@theinnovationexchange.ie \u00a0 About Skillnet Innovation Exchange Skillnet Innovation Exchange is an Irish innovation platform that brings together large corporations undergoing digital transformation with scaling SMEs that offer innovative solutions. Launched in 2022 in partnership with Furthr, the programme bridges the gap between the demand for new technologies and the supply of agile, homegrown tech capabilities. Corporates, present real-world transformation challenges. In turn, scaling Irish SMEs\u2014referred to as \u201csolution providers\u201d\u2014pitch solutions, fostering practical and impactful collaborations.\u00a0The programme operates nationally, supported by regional hubs such as Republic of Work in Cork, The Mill in Drogheda, GreenTechHQ in Wexford, Platform94 in Galway, RDI in Kerry and the Ludgate Hub in Skibbereen. This ensures SMEs from across Ireland have the chance to engage with corporates and scale their businesses. Since its launch, in excess of 70 innovation challenges have been issued, resulting in successful commercial partnerships.\u00a0\u00a0 By facilitating direct engagement between corporate leaders and tech innovators, The Innovation Exchange drives mutual value: corporates access new digital capabilities quickly, while SMEs gain critical exposure, market insight, and commercial traction. It\u2019s a win-win initiative supporting the evolution of Ireland\u2019s digital economy and fostering a collaborative innovation ecosystem.\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0 About\u00a0Skillnet Ireland\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0Skillnet Ireland is the national talent development agency of the Government of Ireland, responsible for advancing the competitiveness, productivity, and innovation of Irish businesses through enterprise-led talent development. Skillnet Ireland partners with 57 industry bodies, supporting over 24,000 businesses and more than 90,000 trainees annually, through its 70 Skillnet Business Networks and five National Initiatives &#8211; Skillnet Climate Ready Academy, Skillnet Innovation Exchange, Skillnet MMC Accelerate, Skillnet Offshore Wind Academy and MentorsWork &#8211; across most sectors and all regions in Ireland.\u00a0 Skillnet Ireland is funded from the National Training Fund through the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science.\u00a0\u00a0 To learn more about Skillnet Ireland visit\u00a0www.skillnetireland.ie\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0Skillnet Business Network search tool:\u00a0https:\/\/www.skillnetireland.ie\/our-networks\/\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Facebook:&hellip;\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/theinnovationexchange.ie\/ga\/skillnet-innovation-exchange-facilitates-e5-million-in-deals-done\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"The Innovation Exchange\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2025-10-23T09:50:57+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2026-05-15T12:46:41+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/theinnovationexchange.ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Conor-Impact.jpg\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1600\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"900\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/jpeg\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"Anne\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"Anne\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"5 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\\\/\\\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/theinnovationexchange.ie\\\/skillnet-innovation-exchange-facilitates-e5-million-in-deals-done\\\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/theinnovationexchange.ie\\\/skillnet-innovation-exchange-facilitates-e5-million-in-deals-done\\\/\"},\"author\":{\"name\":\"Anne\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/theinnovationexchange.ie\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/person\\\/defa33c5c76395238a45f5f0fcf6041c\"},\"headline\":\"Skillnet Innovation Exchange Facilitates \u20ac5 Million in Deals Done\",\"datePublished\":\"2025-10-23T09:50:57+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-05-15T12:46:41+00:00\",\"mainEntityOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/theinnovationexchange.ie\\\/skillnet-innovation-exchange-facilitates-e5-million-in-deals-done\\\/\"},\"wordCount\":1117,\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/theinnovationexchange.ie\\\/#organization\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/theinnovationexchange.ie\\\/skillnet-innovation-exchange-facilitates-e5-million-in-deals-done\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/theinnovationexchange.ie\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2025\\\/10\\\/Conor-Impact.jpg\",\"keywords\":[\"2025\"],\"articleSection\":[\"News\"],\"inLanguage\":\"ga\"},{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/theinnovationexchange.ie\\\/skillnet-innovation-exchange-facilitates-e5-million-in-deals-done\\\/\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/theinnovationexchange.ie\\\/skillnet-innovation-exchange-facilitates-e5-million-in-deals-done\\\/\",\"name\":\"Skillnet Innovation Exchange Facilitates \u20ac5 Million in Deals Done - 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The findings of the independent impact assessment, authored by KHSK Economic Consultants, shows that Skillnet Innovation Exchange has delivered\u00a06,000 training days and established a\u00a0nationwide footprint through a regional partner network, forming the basis of a vibrant innovation ecosystem. \u00a0 Skillnet Innovation Exchange is\u00a0Ireland\u2019s marketplace for innovation\u00a0connecting companies facing digital transformation challenges with innovative SMEs. The findings were unveiled at\u00a0The Innovation Summit, Skillnet Innovation Exchange\u2019s national gathering held in Galway, where more than 200 members of Ireland\u2019s innovation community met to explore collaborative innovation, competitiveness and digital transformation. \u00a0 Speaking at the event,\u00a0Ken Finnegan, Chief Strategy Officer, Skillnet Ireland, said: \u201cSkillnet Innovation Exchange is playing a vital role in strengthening Ireland&#8217;s competitiveness by equipping SMEs with the skills, capabilities, and connections they need to innovate and grow. By bridging the gap between enterprise and innovation, this initiative enables larger corporates to address their digital and sustainability challenges while creating tangible growth opportunities for smaller firms. The impact highlighted in this report demonstrates how this model is driving real economic value, fostering collaboration, and helping to future-proof Ireland\u2019s innovation ecosystem.\u201d \u00a0 \u00a0 Conor Carmody, Director of Skillnet Innovation Exchange, said: \u201cWe are delighted to release this Impact Report at such a pivotal point for our initiative. Skillnet Innovation Exchange has shown that it can make a\u00a0meaningful contribution to Ireland\u2019s competitiveness\u00a0by 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.\u201d \u00a0 According to the assessment, Skillnet Innovation Exchange provides SMEs with access to significant growth opportunities and exposure to prospective customers, while enabling larger organisations to discover and adopt cutting-edge solutions more efficiently. The report concludes that Skillnet Innovation\u00a0Exchange is\u00a0well positioned to scale further, driving national competitiveness and ensuring that more innovation and employment are created and retained in Ireland. \u00a0 To date,\u00a030 deals\u00a0have been completed\u00a0through Skillnet Innovation Exchange, with that number expected to grow substantially by year-end. The total value of these collaborations stands at approximately\u00a0\u20ac5 million, with further follow-on agreements already under discussion. \u00a0 Three\u00a0new deals\u00a0were facilitated by the marketplace for innovation in this quarter: \u00a0 These join a growing list of successful partnerships that demonstrate the Exchange\u2019s ability to turn innovation challenges into commercial opportunities, including: \u00a0 Launch of \u2018Digital for Sustainability\u2019 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\u00a0Digital 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. Digital for Sustainability applies Skillnet Innovation Exchange\u2019s proven challenge framework to connect organisations with innovative digital solutions, including automation and analytics, that make sustainability reporting faster, smarter and more cost-effective. \u00a0 Expanding Regional Network According to the KHSK Economic Consultants Impact Report, Skillnet Innovation Exchange is playing an important role in implementing regional policy and it strengthens the existing regional economic developing organisations. Skillnet Innovation Exchange has a strong national footprint and expanding regional network, currently involving six innovation hubs &#8211; 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\u00a0&#8211; which allows it to roll out over 50 national and regional events per annum, facilitating training and networking for members. \u00a0It has strategic partnerships with Sport Ireland (Digital for Sport) and Research Ireland (Discovery Exchange). The outcomes outlined in the Impact Report reflect strong alignment with national priorities in\u00a0competitiveness, digital transformation, sustainability, talent development entrepreneurship as well as regional growth. Scale-ups and corporates in the region are being encouraged by Skillnet Innovation Exchange to sign up at\u00a0www.theinnovationexchange.ie.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 ENDS For media queries contact:\u00a0 Oonagh Fox, Skillnet Innovation Exchange Tel: 087 8554406 Email:\u00a0oonagh@theinnovationexchange.ie \u00a0 About Skillnet Innovation Exchange Skillnet Innovation Exchange is an Irish innovation platform that brings together large corporations undergoing digital transformation with scaling SMEs that offer innovative solutions. Launched in 2022 in partnership with Furthr, the programme bridges the gap between the demand for new technologies and the supply of agile, homegrown tech capabilities. Corporates, present real-world transformation challenges. In turn, scaling Irish SMEs\u2014referred to as \u201csolution providers\u201d\u2014pitch solutions, fostering practical and impactful collaborations.\u00a0The programme operates nationally, supported by regional hubs such as Republic of Work in Cork, The Mill in Drogheda, GreenTechHQ in Wexford, Platform94 in Galway, RDI in Kerry and the Ludgate Hub in Skibbereen. This ensures SMEs from across Ireland have the chance to engage with corporates and scale their businesses. Since its launch, in excess of 70 innovation challenges have been issued, resulting in successful commercial partnerships.\u00a0\u00a0 By facilitating direct engagement between corporate leaders and tech innovators, The Innovation Exchange drives mutual value: corporates access new digital capabilities quickly, while SMEs gain critical exposure, market insight, and commercial traction. It\u2019s a win-win initiative supporting the evolution of Ireland\u2019s digital economy and fostering a collaborative innovation ecosystem.\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0 About\u00a0Skillnet Ireland\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0Skillnet Ireland is the national talent development agency of the Government of Ireland, responsible for advancing the competitiveness, productivity, and innovation of Irish businesses through enterprise-led talent development. Skillnet Ireland partners with 57 industry bodies, supporting over 24,000 businesses and more than 90,000 trainees annually, through its 70 Skillnet Business Networks and five National Initiatives &#8211; Skillnet Climate Ready Academy, Skillnet Innovation Exchange, Skillnet MMC Accelerate, Skillnet Offshore Wind Academy and MentorsWork &#8211; across most sectors and all regions in Ireland.\u00a0 Skillnet Ireland is funded from the National Training Fund through the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science.\u00a0\u00a0 To learn more about Skillnet Ireland visit\u00a0www.skillnetireland.ie\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0Skillnet Business Network search tool:\u00a0https:\/\/www.skillnetireland.ie\/our-networks\/\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Facebook:&hellip;","og_url":"https:\/\/theinnovationexchange.ie\/ga\/skillnet-innovation-exchange-facilitates-e5-million-in-deals-done\/","og_site_name":"The Innovation Exchange","article_published_time":"2025-10-23T09:50:57+00:00","article_modified_time":"2026-05-15T12:46:41+00:00","og_image":[{"width":1600,"height":900,"url":"https:\/\/theinnovationexchange.ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Conor-Impact.jpg","type":"image\/jpeg"}],"author":"Anne","twitter_card":"summary_large_image","twitter_misc":{"Written by":"Anne","Est. reading time":"5 minutes"},"schema":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"Article","@id":"https:\/\/theinnovationexchange.ie\/skillnet-innovation-exchange-facilitates-e5-million-in-deals-done\/#article","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/theinnovationexchange.ie\/skillnet-innovation-exchange-facilitates-e5-million-in-deals-done\/"},"author":{"name":"Anne","@id":"https:\/\/theinnovationexchange.ie\/#\/schema\/person\/defa33c5c76395238a45f5f0fcf6041c"},"headline":"Skillnet Innovation Exchange Facilitates \u20ac5 Million in Deals Done","datePublished":"2025-10-23T09:50:57+00:00","dateModified":"2026-05-15T12:46:41+00:00","mainEntityOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/theinnovationexchange.ie\/skillnet-innovation-exchange-facilitates-e5-million-in-deals-done\/"},"wordCount":1117,"publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/theinnovationexchange.ie\/#organization"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/theinnovationexchange.ie\/skillnet-innovation-exchange-facilitates-e5-million-in-deals-done\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/theinnovationexchange.ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Conor-Impact.jpg","keywords":["2025"],"articleSection":["News"],"inLanguage":"ga"},{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"https:\/\/theinnovationexchange.ie\/skillnet-innovation-exchange-facilitates-e5-million-in-deals-done\/","url":"https:\/\/theinnovationexchange.ie\/skillnet-innovation-exchange-facilitates-e5-million-in-deals-done\/","name":"Skillnet Innovation Exchange Facilitates \u20ac5 Million in Deals Done - 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