Skillnet Ireland is marking a landmark year for enterprise-led workforce development as ten Skillnet Business Networks celebrate milestone anniversaries in 2026, collectively representing decades of skills delivery for businesses, employees and the wider Irish economy, as reported by Skillnet Ireland.

The milestone celebrations coincide with the launch of Skillnet Ireland's new Statement of Strategy, Empowering Enterprise 2026–2028: A Strategy for Next Generation Capability, which sets out a roadmap for strengthening Ireland's competitiveness across digitalisation, artificial intelligence and sustainability.

Waterford Chamber Skillnet is marking 25 years in operation, while BioPharmaChem Skillnet, Design Print and Packaging Skillnet, ICBE Business Excellence Skillnet, South Kerry Skillnet, Space Industry Skillnet and Technology Ireland ICT Skillnet are each celebrating 20 years. XL Vets Skillnet and Tech Northwest Skillnet reach 15 years, CILT Mobility and Supply Chain Skillnet marks ten years, and Skillnet Climate Ready Academy celebrates five years as a national initiative.

Dave Flynn, Director of Business Networks at Skillnet Ireland, said the longevity of the networks demonstrates the strength of the enterprise-led model. "From the outset, these Networks have supported Irish businesses to build capability, respond to change and compete on a global stage," he said. "As we implement our new Statement of Strategy, we are focused on the future and dedicated to equipping businesses with the skills they need to harness opportunities in digitalisation, artificial intelligence and sustainability."

Tommie Ryan, Network Manager of Waterford Chamber Skillnet, said the 25-year milestone reflects the resilience of the businesses the network has served. "Since 2001, we have witnessed first-hand the resilience and determination of enterprises across Waterford and the South East, and it has been our honour to walk alongside them through every twist and turn," he said.

The ten networks represent a broad cross-section of Ireland's economy, from regional SMEs to larger companies in technology, life sciences and advanced manufacturing, delivering training spanning leadership development, digital skills and sector-specific technical expertise.

Established in 1999, Skillnet Ireland's new strategy targets engagement with up to 100,000 businesses by 2028, with an expanded focus on SMEs, start-ups and scaling companies.

Discover the full scope of Skillnet Ireland's milestone celebrations and new strategy in the original report.