{"id":16573,"date":"2026-02-24T12:24:17","date_gmt":"2026-02-24T11:24:17","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/theinnovationexchange.ie\/?p=16573"},"modified":"2026-07-22T13:58:12","modified_gmt":"2026-07-22T12:58:12","slug":"minister-marian-harkin-announces-skillnet-innovation-exchange-expansion-in-co-waterford","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/theinnovationexchange.ie\/ga\/minister-marian-harkin-announces-skillnet-innovation-exchange-expansion-in-co-waterford\/","title":{"rendered":"Minister Marian Harkin announces\u00a0Skillnet\u00a0Innovation Exchange Expansion in Co Waterford\u00a0\u00a0"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Skillnet Ireland launches Skillnet Innovation Exchange to support businesses in Co Waterford  <\/em> <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Press release, 20 February 2025:<\/strong> Minister of State at the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, Marian Harkin TD, has announced the latest regional expansion of Skillnet Innovation Exchange in Co Waterford through its regional partner, Greentech HQ.   <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Skillnet Innovation Exchange provides support to businesses both large and small by connecting larger companies facing innovation challenges with digital solution providers that can fast-track innovation. The partnership between Skillnet Innovation Exchange and Greentech HQ will bolster the business community in Co Waterford and the wider region, as a centre for innovation, technology, and business excellence.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Minister Marian Harkin <\/strong>said: \u201cI\u2019m delighted that Skillnet Innovation Exchange is extending its reach and influence into Co Waterford and in doing so, contributing to the competitiveness of ambitious SMEs in the region, while supporting larger companies with specific innovation challenges. Through initiatives like Skillnet Innovation Exchange, the Irish Government is supporting the digital transition across all sectors of the economy and ensuring businesses have the skills, tools, and opportunities needed to thrive in a digital world.\u201d    <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mark Jordan, Chief Executive, Skillnet Ireland, <\/strong>said: \u201cThe expansion of Skillnet Innovation Exchange in Co Waterford will deliver significant advantages for local businesses, providing much-coveted opportunities for solution providers to expand their commercial horizons and engage with larger corporations. I encourage local SMEs and larger companies in the region to engage with the Skillnet Innovation Exchange and take advantage of the many benefits it offers.\u201d  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Since 2022, Skillnet Innovation Exchange has delivered \u20ac5 million in SME deal flow, supported 80 corporate challenges resulting in 40 signed deals, provided over 6,000 training days, and established a strong nationwide partner network that underpins a vibrant innovation ecosystem.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The nationwide expansion of the national initiative offers more solution provider access to a wide range of benefits, including access to a readymade sales pipeline, upskilling and collaboration opportunities with large corporations.   <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Conor Carmody, Director, Skillnet Innovation Exchange<\/strong>, said: \u201cThe expansion of Skillnet Innovation Exchange across Ireland has created valuable opportunities for digital solution providers to collaborate with SMEs and large corporates, helping bridge the innovation divide and strengthen the national business ecosystem. We\u2019re delighted to continue our partnership with Greentech HQ and to build new, impactful relationships with businesses in Co Waterford, while showcasing exceptional talent and supporting companies as they scale.\u201d  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Ian Mernagh, CEO, Greentech HQ, said: <\/strong>\u201cWelcoming the Skillnet Innovation Exchange expansion into Co Waterford is a strong vote of confidence in the region\u2019s innovation potential. Through our partnership with Skillnet Innovation Exchange, we are creating a practical pathway for SMEs and larger companies to collaborate, adopt digital solutions faster and build real commercial outcomes. This initiative strengthens the South East as a connected hub for innovation, talent and sustainable growth, and we look forward to supporting ambitious businesses across Waterford and the wider region as they scale.\u201d<\/em>  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Skillnet Innovation Exchange has more than 1,600 scaling solution providers members of the marketplace for innovation, demonstrating a significant appetite for the initiative. Since its formation, the national initiative has responded to numerous innovation challenges from companies such as InterSport Elverys, Horse Sport Ireland, Ryanair, Glanbia and many more.\u202f\u202f\u202f\u202f  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

To date, Skillnet Innovation Exchange has successfully partnered with regional hubs throughout the country, such as 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.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Scale-ups and corporates in the region are being encouraged by Skillnet Innovation Exchange to sign up at\u202fwww.theinnovationexchange.ie<\/a>.\u202f\u202f\u202f  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

ENDS<\/strong> <\/p>\n\n\n\n

For media queries contact:<\/strong> <\/p>\n\n\n\n

[Valerie@theinnovationexchange.ie]<\/strong> <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Notes for Editors<\/strong>\u202f\u202f <\/p>\n\n\n\n

About <\/strong>Skillnet Innovation Exchange<\/strong><\/a>\u202f\u202f\u202f <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Skillnet\u202fInnovation Exchange\u202fis Ireland\u2019s\u202finnovation marketplace, bringing together\u202fambitious\u202fdigital\u202fsolution providers and corporates with\u202freal digital\u202ftransformation\u202fchallenges. The Innovation Exchange creates a trusted environment where solution providers can access a qualified sales pipeline,\u202fopportunities to pitch\u202fdirectly\u202fto\u202fdecision-makers, and build lasting commercial relationships, supported by\u202ftailored\u202ftraining. Corporates such as Ryanair,\u202fVHI and\u202fand\u202fGlanbia\u202fbenefit\u202ffrom access to a diverse innovation ecosystem, fresh thinking\u202f& talent\u202fand proven\u202fcollaboration\u202fpartners who can support organisational change and growth. A nationwide partner network\u202fand national partners such as Sport Ireland and Research Ireland\u202funderpin collaboration, knowledge sharing and scalable, sustainable innovation.\u202f \u202f <\/p>\n\n\n\n

About <\/strong>Greentech<\/strong><\/a> HQ<\/strong> <\/p>\n\n\n\n

GreenTechHQ Sustainability Innovation Hub helps companies develop and grow their business base. A dynamic and engaging set up with secure connectivity, hot desks, offices and event space available, from small to large groups, for those looking to work remotely but within a business habitat. GreenTechHQ connects businesses with investors, corporations, mentors, and provides training and a range of services aimed at heightening your business returns like marketing, legal & financial advice. Further information is available at www.greentechhq.com<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

About <\/strong>Skillnet Ireland<\/strong><\/a> <\/strong>\u202f\u202f 
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 – Skillnet Climate Ready Academy, Skillnet Innovation Exchange, Skillnet MMC Accelerate, Skillnet Offshore Wind Academy and MentorsWork – across most sectors and all regions in Ireland. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Skillnet Ireland is funded from the National Training Fund through the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

To learn more about Skillnet Ireland visit www.skillnetireland.ie<\/a>  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Skillnet Business Network search tool: https:\/\/www.skillnetireland.ie\/our-networks\/<\/a> <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Facebook: @SkillnetIreland  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Twitter: @SkillnetIreland  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com\/company\/skillnetireland<\/a> <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Skillnet Ireland launches Skillnet Innovation Exchange to support businesses in Co Waterford    Press release, 20 February 2025: Minister of State at the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, Marian Harkin TD, has announced the latest regional expansion of Skillnet Innovation Exchange in Co Waterford through its regional partner, Greentech HQ.    Skillnet Innovation Exchange provides support to businesses both large and small by connecting larger companies facing innovation challenges with digital solution providers that can fast-track innovation. The partnership between Skillnet Innovation Exchange and Greentech HQ will bolster the business community in Co Waterford and the wider region, as a centre for innovation, technology, and business excellence.   Minister Marian Harkin said: \u201cI\u2019m delighted that Skillnet Innovation Exchange is extending its reach and influence into Co Waterford and in doing so, contributing to the competitiveness of ambitious SMEs in the region, while supporting larger companies with specific innovation challenges. Through initiatives like Skillnet Innovation Exchange, the Irish Government is supporting the digital transition across all sectors of the economy and ensuring businesses have the skills, tools, and opportunities needed to thrive in a digital world.\u201d     Mark Jordan, Chief Executive, Skillnet Ireland, said: \u201cThe expansion of Skillnet Innovation Exchange in Co Waterford will deliver significant advantages for local businesses, providing much-coveted opportunities for solution providers to expand their commercial horizons and engage with larger corporations. I encourage local SMEs and larger companies in the region to engage with the Skillnet Innovation Exchange and take advantage of the many benefits it offers.\u201d   Since 2022, Skillnet Innovation Exchange has delivered \u20ac5 million in SME deal flow, supported 80 corporate challenges resulting in 40 signed deals, provided over 6,000 training days, and established a strong nationwide partner network that underpins a vibrant innovation ecosystem.   The nationwide expansion of the national initiative offers more solution provider access to a wide range of benefits, including access to a readymade sales pipeline, upskilling and collaboration opportunities with large corporations.    Conor Carmody, Director, Skillnet Innovation Exchange, said: \u201cThe expansion of Skillnet Innovation Exchange across Ireland has created valuable opportunities for digital solution providers to collaborate with SMEs and large corporates, helping bridge the innovation divide and strengthen the national business ecosystem. We\u2019re delighted to continue our partnership with Greentech HQ and to build new, impactful relationships with businesses in Co Waterford, while showcasing exceptional talent and supporting companies as they scale.\u201d   Ian Mernagh, CEO, Greentech HQ, said: \u201cWelcoming the Skillnet Innovation Exchange expansion into Co Waterford is a strong vote of confidence in the region\u2019s innovation potential. Through our partnership with Skillnet Innovation Exchange, we are creating a practical pathway for SMEs and larger companies to collaborate, adopt digital solutions faster and build real commercial outcomes. This initiative strengthens the South East as a connected hub for innovation, talent and sustainable growth, and we look forward to supporting ambitious businesses across Waterford and the wider region as they scale.\u201d   The Skillnet Innovation Exchange has more than 1,600 scaling solution providers members of the marketplace for innovation, demonstrating a significant appetite for the initiative. Since its formation, the national initiative has responded to numerous innovation challenges from companies such as InterSport Elverys, Horse Sport Ireland, Ryanair, Glanbia and many more.\u202f\u202f\u202f\u202f   To date, Skillnet Innovation Exchange has successfully partnered with regional hubs throughout the country, such as 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.   Scale-ups and corporates in the region are being encouraged by Skillnet Innovation Exchange to sign up at\u202fwww.theinnovationexchange.ie.\u202f\u202f\u202f   ENDS  For media queries contact:  [Valerie@theinnovationexchange.ie]  Notes for Editors\u202f\u202f  About Skillnet Innovation Exchange\u202f\u202f\u202f  Skillnet\u202fInnovation Exchange\u202fis Ireland\u2019s\u202finnovation marketplace, bringing together\u202fambitious\u202fdigital\u202fsolution providers and corporates with\u202freal digital\u202ftransformation\u202fchallenges. The Innovation Exchange creates a trusted environment where solution providers can access a qualified sales pipeline,\u202fopportunities to pitch\u202fdirectly\u202fto\u202fdecision-makers, and build lasting commercial relationships, supported by\u202ftailored\u202ftraining. Corporates such as Ryanair,\u202fVHI and\u202fand\u202fGlanbia\u202fbenefit\u202ffrom access to a diverse innovation ecosystem, fresh thinking\u202f& talent\u202fand proven\u202fcollaboration\u202fpartners who can support organisational change and growth. A nationwide partner network\u202fand national partners such as Sport Ireland and Research Ireland\u202funderpin collaboration, knowledge sharing and scalable, sustainable innovation.\u202f \u202f  About Greentech HQ  GreenTechHQ Sustainability Innovation Hub helps companies develop and grow their business base. A dynamic and engaging set up with secure connectivity, hot desks, offices and event space available, from small to large groups, for those looking to work remotely but within a business habitat. GreenTechHQ connects businesses with investors, corporations, mentors, and provides training and a range of services aimed at heightening your business returns like marketing, legal & financial advice. Further information is available at www.greentechhq.com.  About Skillnet Ireland \u202f\u202f 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 – Skillnet Climate Ready Academy, Skillnet Innovation Exchange, Skillnet MMC Accelerate, Skillnet Offshore Wind Academy and MentorsWork – across most sectors and all regions in Ireland.  Skillnet Ireland is funded from the National Training Fund through the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science.   To learn more about Skillnet Ireland visit www.skillnetireland.ie   Skillnet Business Network search tool: https:\/\/www.skillnetireland.ie\/our-networks\/  Facebook: @SkillnetIreland   Twitter: @SkillnetIreland   LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com\/company\/skillnetireland <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":984,"featured_media":17467,"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":[62],"class_list":["post-16573","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-news","tag-62","category-1","description-off"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"\nMinister Marian Harkin announces\u00a0Skillnet\u00a0Innovation Exchange Expansion in Co Waterford\u00a0\u00a0 - 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\/minister-marian-harkin-announces-skillnet-innovation-exchange-expansion-in-co-waterford\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Minister Marian Harkin announces\u00a0Skillnet\u00a0Innovation Exchange Expansion in Co Waterford\u00a0\u00a0 - The Innovation Exchange\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Skillnet Ireland launches Skillnet Innovation Exchange to support businesses in Co Waterford    Press release, 20 February 2025: Minister of State at the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, Marian Harkin TD, has announced the latest regional expansion of Skillnet Innovation Exchange in Co Waterford through its regional partner, Greentech HQ.    Skillnet Innovation Exchange provides support to businesses both large and small by connecting larger companies facing innovation challenges with digital solution providers that can fast-track innovation. The partnership between Skillnet Innovation Exchange and Greentech HQ will bolster the business community in Co Waterford and the wider region, as a centre for innovation, technology, and business excellence.   Minister Marian Harkin said: \u201cI\u2019m delighted that Skillnet Innovation Exchange is extending its reach and influence into Co Waterford and in doing so, contributing to the competitiveness of ambitious SMEs in the region, while supporting larger companies with specific innovation challenges. Through initiatives like Skillnet Innovation Exchange, the Irish Government is supporting the digital transition across all sectors of the economy and ensuring businesses have the skills, tools, and opportunities needed to thrive in a digital world.\u201d     Mark Jordan, Chief Executive, Skillnet Ireland, said: \u201cThe expansion of Skillnet Innovation Exchange in Co Waterford will deliver significant advantages for local businesses, providing much-coveted opportunities for solution providers to expand their commercial horizons and engage with larger corporations. I encourage local SMEs and larger companies in the region to engage with the Skillnet Innovation Exchange and take advantage of the many benefits it offers.\u201d   Since 2022, Skillnet Innovation Exchange has delivered \u20ac5 million in SME deal flow, supported 80 corporate challenges resulting in 40 signed deals, provided over 6,000 training days, and established a strong nationwide partner network that underpins a vibrant innovation ecosystem.   The nationwide expansion of the national initiative offers more solution provider access to a wide range of benefits, including access to a readymade sales pipeline, upskilling and collaboration opportunities with large corporations.    Conor Carmody, Director, Skillnet Innovation Exchange, said: \u201cThe expansion of Skillnet Innovation Exchange across Ireland has created valuable opportunities for digital solution providers to collaborate with SMEs and large corporates, helping bridge the innovation divide and strengthen the national business ecosystem. We\u2019re delighted to continue our partnership with Greentech HQ and to build new, impactful relationships with businesses in Co Waterford, while showcasing exceptional talent and supporting companies as they scale.\u201d   Ian Mernagh, CEO, Greentech HQ, said: \u201cWelcoming the Skillnet Innovation Exchange expansion into Co Waterford is a strong vote of confidence in the region\u2019s innovation potential. Through our partnership with Skillnet Innovation Exchange, we are creating a practical pathway for SMEs and larger companies to collaborate, adopt digital solutions faster and build real commercial outcomes. This initiative strengthens the South East as a connected hub for innovation, talent and sustainable growth, and we look forward to supporting ambitious businesses across Waterford and the wider region as they scale.\u201d   The Skillnet Innovation Exchange has more than 1,600 scaling solution providers members of the marketplace for innovation, demonstrating a significant appetite for the initiative. Since its formation, the national initiative has responded to numerous innovation challenges from companies such as InterSport Elverys, Horse Sport Ireland, Ryanair, Glanbia and many more.\u202f\u202f\u202f\u202f   To date, Skillnet Innovation Exchange has successfully partnered with regional hubs throughout the country, such as 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.   Scale-ups and corporates in the region are being encouraged by Skillnet Innovation Exchange to sign up at\u202fwww.theinnovationexchange.ie.\u202f\u202f\u202f   ENDS  For media queries contact:  [Valerie@theinnovationexchange.ie]  Notes for Editors\u202f\u202f  About Skillnet Innovation Exchange\u202f\u202f\u202f  Skillnet\u202fInnovation Exchange\u202fis Ireland\u2019s\u202finnovation marketplace, bringing together\u202fambitious\u202fdigital\u202fsolution providers and corporates with\u202freal digital\u202ftransformation\u202fchallenges. The Innovation Exchange creates a trusted environment where solution providers can access a qualified sales pipeline,\u202fopportunities to pitch\u202fdirectly\u202fto\u202fdecision-makers, and build lasting commercial relationships, supported by\u202ftailored\u202ftraining. Corporates such as Ryanair,\u202fVHI and\u202fand\u202fGlanbia\u202fbenefit\u202ffrom access to a diverse innovation ecosystem, fresh thinking\u202f& talent\u202fand proven\u202fcollaboration\u202fpartners who can support organisational change and growth. A nationwide partner network\u202fand national partners such as Sport Ireland and Research Ireland\u202funderpin collaboration, knowledge sharing and scalable, sustainable innovation.\u202f \u202f  About Greentech HQ  GreenTechHQ Sustainability Innovation Hub helps companies develop and grow their business base. A dynamic and engaging set up with secure connectivity, hot desks, offices and event space available, from small to large groups, for those looking to work remotely but within a business habitat. GreenTechHQ connects businesses with investors, corporations, mentors, and provides training and a range of services aimed at heightening your business returns like marketing, legal & financial advice. Further information is available at www.greentechhq.com.  About Skillnet Ireland \u202f\u202f 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 – Skillnet Climate Ready Academy, Skillnet Innovation Exchange, Skillnet MMC Accelerate, Skillnet Offshore Wind Academy and MentorsWork – across most sectors and all regions in Ireland.  Skillnet Ireland is funded from the National Training Fund through the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science.   To learn more about Skillnet Ireland visit www.skillnetireland.ie   Skillnet Business Network search tool: https:\/\/www.skillnetireland.ie\/our-networks\/  Facebook: @SkillnetIreland   Twitter: @SkillnetIreland   LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com\/company\/skillnetireland \" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/theinnovationexchange.ie\/ga\/minister-marian-harkin-announces-skillnet-innovation-exchange-expansion-in-co-waterford\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"The Innovation Exchange\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2026-02-24T11:24:17+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2026-07-22T12:58:12+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/theinnovationexchange.ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Waterford-right-logo.jpg\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1902\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"1070\" \/>\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\\\/minister-marian-harkin-announces-skillnet-innovation-exchange-expansion-in-co-waterford\\\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/theinnovationexchange.ie\\\/minister-marian-harkin-announces-skillnet-innovation-exchange-expansion-in-co-waterford\\\/\"},\"author\":{\"name\":\"Anne\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/theinnovationexchange.ie\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/person\\\/defa33c5c76395238a45f5f0fcf6041c\"},\"headline\":\"Minister Marian Harkin announces\u00a0Skillnet\u00a0Innovation Exchange Expansion in Co Waterford\u00a0\u00a0\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-24T11:24:17+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-07-22T12:58:12+00:00\",\"mainEntityOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/theinnovationexchange.ie\\\/minister-marian-harkin-announces-skillnet-innovation-exchange-expansion-in-co-waterford\\\/\"},\"wordCount\":1082,\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/theinnovationexchange.ie\\\/#organization\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/theinnovationexchange.ie\\\/minister-marian-harkin-announces-skillnet-innovation-exchange-expansion-in-co-waterford\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/theinnovationexchange.ie\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2026\\\/02\\\/Waterford-right-logo.jpg\",\"keywords\":[\"2026\"],\"articleSection\":[\"News\"],\"inLanguage\":\"ga\"},{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/theinnovationexchange.ie\\\/minister-marian-harkin-announces-skillnet-innovation-exchange-expansion-in-co-waterford\\\/\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/theinnovationexchange.ie\\\/minister-marian-harkin-announces-skillnet-innovation-exchange-expansion-in-co-waterford\\\/\",\"name\":\"Minister Marian Harkin announces\u00a0Skillnet\u00a0Innovation Exchange Expansion in Co Waterford\u00a0\u00a0 - 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The Innovation Exchange","robots":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","max-snippet":"max-snippet:-1","max-image-preview":"max-image-preview:large","max-video-preview":"max-video-preview:-1"},"canonical":"https:\/\/theinnovationexchange.ie\/ga\/minister-marian-harkin-announces-skillnet-innovation-exchange-expansion-in-co-waterford\/","og_locale":"en_US","og_type":"article","og_title":"Minister Marian Harkin announces\u00a0Skillnet\u00a0Innovation Exchange Expansion in Co Waterford\u00a0\u00a0 - The Innovation Exchange","og_description":"Skillnet Ireland launches Skillnet Innovation Exchange to support businesses in Co Waterford    Press release, 20 February 2025: Minister of State at the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, Marian Harkin TD, has announced the latest regional expansion of Skillnet Innovation Exchange in Co Waterford through its regional partner, Greentech HQ.    Skillnet Innovation Exchange provides support to businesses both large and small by connecting larger companies facing innovation challenges with digital solution providers that can fast-track innovation. The partnership between Skillnet Innovation Exchange and Greentech HQ will bolster the business community in Co Waterford and the wider region, as a centre for innovation, technology, and business excellence.   Minister Marian Harkin said: \u201cI\u2019m delighted that Skillnet Innovation Exchange is extending its reach and influence into Co Waterford and in doing so, contributing to the competitiveness of ambitious SMEs in the region, while supporting larger companies with specific innovation challenges. Through initiatives like Skillnet Innovation Exchange, the Irish Government is supporting the digital transition across all sectors of the economy and ensuring businesses have the skills, tools, and opportunities needed to thrive in a digital world.\u201d     Mark Jordan, Chief Executive, Skillnet Ireland, said: \u201cThe expansion of Skillnet Innovation Exchange in Co Waterford will deliver significant advantages for local businesses, providing much-coveted opportunities for solution providers to expand their commercial horizons and engage with larger corporations. I encourage local SMEs and larger companies in the region to engage with the Skillnet Innovation Exchange and take advantage of the many benefits it offers.\u201d   Since 2022, Skillnet Innovation Exchange has delivered \u20ac5 million in SME deal flow, supported 80 corporate challenges resulting in 40 signed deals, provided over 6,000 training days, and established a strong nationwide partner network that underpins a vibrant innovation ecosystem.   The nationwide expansion of the national initiative offers more solution provider access to a wide range of benefits, including access to a readymade sales pipeline, upskilling and collaboration opportunities with large corporations.    Conor Carmody, Director, Skillnet Innovation Exchange, said: \u201cThe expansion of Skillnet Innovation Exchange across Ireland has created valuable opportunities for digital solution providers to collaborate with SMEs and large corporates, helping bridge the innovation divide and strengthen the national business ecosystem. We\u2019re delighted to continue our partnership with Greentech HQ and to build new, impactful relationships with businesses in Co Waterford, while showcasing exceptional talent and supporting companies as they scale.\u201d   Ian Mernagh, CEO, Greentech HQ, said: \u201cWelcoming the Skillnet Innovation Exchange expansion into Co Waterford is a strong vote of confidence in the region\u2019s innovation potential. Through our partnership with Skillnet Innovation Exchange, we are creating a practical pathway for SMEs and larger companies to collaborate, adopt digital solutions faster and build real commercial outcomes. This initiative strengthens the South East as a connected hub for innovation, talent and sustainable growth, and we look forward to supporting ambitious businesses across Waterford and the wider region as they scale.\u201d   The Skillnet Innovation Exchange has more than 1,600 scaling solution providers members of the marketplace for innovation, demonstrating a significant appetite for the initiative. Since its formation, the national initiative has responded to numerous innovation challenges from companies such as InterSport Elverys, Horse Sport Ireland, Ryanair, Glanbia and many more.\u202f\u202f\u202f\u202f   To date, Skillnet Innovation Exchange has successfully partnered with regional hubs throughout the country, such as 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.   Scale-ups and corporates in the region are being encouraged by Skillnet Innovation Exchange to sign up at\u202fwww.theinnovationexchange.ie.\u202f\u202f\u202f   ENDS  For media queries contact:  [Valerie@theinnovationexchange.ie]  Notes for Editors\u202f\u202f  About Skillnet Innovation Exchange\u202f\u202f\u202f  Skillnet\u202fInnovation Exchange\u202fis Ireland\u2019s\u202finnovation marketplace, bringing together\u202fambitious\u202fdigital\u202fsolution providers and corporates with\u202freal digital\u202ftransformation\u202fchallenges. The Innovation Exchange creates a trusted environment where solution providers can access a qualified sales pipeline,\u202fopportunities to pitch\u202fdirectly\u202fto\u202fdecision-makers, and build lasting commercial relationships, supported by\u202ftailored\u202ftraining. Corporates such as Ryanair,\u202fVHI and\u202fand\u202fGlanbia\u202fbenefit\u202ffrom access to a diverse innovation ecosystem, fresh thinking\u202f& talent\u202fand proven\u202fcollaboration\u202fpartners who can support organisational change and growth. A nationwide partner network\u202fand national partners such as Sport Ireland and Research Ireland\u202funderpin collaboration, knowledge sharing and scalable, sustainable innovation.\u202f \u202f  About Greentech HQ  GreenTechHQ Sustainability Innovation Hub helps companies develop and grow their business base. A dynamic and engaging set up with secure connectivity, hot desks, offices and event space available, from small to large groups, for those looking to work remotely but within a business habitat. GreenTechHQ connects businesses with investors, corporations, mentors, and provides training and a range of services aimed at heightening your business returns like marketing, legal & financial advice. Further information is available at www.greentechhq.com.  About Skillnet Ireland \u202f\u202f 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 – Skillnet Climate Ready Academy, Skillnet Innovation Exchange, Skillnet MMC Accelerate, Skillnet Offshore Wind Academy and MentorsWork – across most sectors and all regions in Ireland.  Skillnet Ireland is funded from the National Training Fund through the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science.   To learn more about Skillnet Ireland visit www.skillnetireland.ie   Skillnet Business Network search tool: https:\/\/www.skillnetireland.ie\/our-networks\/  Facebook: @SkillnetIreland   Twitter: @SkillnetIreland   LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com\/company\/skillnetireland ","og_url":"https:\/\/theinnovationexchange.ie\/ga\/minister-marian-harkin-announces-skillnet-innovation-exchange-expansion-in-co-waterford\/","og_site_name":"The Innovation Exchange","article_published_time":"2026-02-24T11:24:17+00:00","article_modified_time":"2026-07-22T12:58:12+00:00","og_image":[{"width":1902,"height":1070,"url":"https:\/\/theinnovationexchange.ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Waterford-right-logo.jpg","type":"image\/jpeg"}],"author":"Anne","twitter_card":"summary_large_image","twitter_misc":{"Written by":"Anne","Est. reading time":"5 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