Frequently Asked Questions
What does Skillnets do?
Skillnets is responsible for the operation of The Training Networks Programme. Since 1999, Skillnets has funded over 150 Training Networks and supported over 10,000 companies to meet their training needs. 50,000 staff and managers have participated in raising their skills levels and 30 different industry sectors have been involved.
Recognising that the enterprise-led approach has made a positive contribution to raising the profile of enterprise training in Ireland, the Government has now granted a new five year mandate to Skillnets for 2005-2010. Up to €55 million will be made available from the National Training Fund. This provides significant new support and funding to industry to boost the skills levels across companies and their employees. This opportunity for developing human potential can underpin the competitiveness of firms as well as increase the long term career opportunities and employability of employees.
Who funds Skillnets?
Skillnets is funded through the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment from the National Training Fund.
What funding is available at the moment?
At present, there is no funding available to new networks. However, you can join a funded network at any time. View the current Skillnets Learning Networks.
How can I apply for funding?
When further funding is available, application forms and criteria will be available from this website and also from the Skillnets Office.
What is a Learning Network?
A Skillnet Learning Network is a group of companies working together to provide training for their companies. Learning Networks are made up of companies that have come together due to their geographical location or companies who work in the same sector. The Learning Networks are funded by Skillnets and the companies contribute matching funding. View the current Skillnets Learning Networks.
Why should my company join a Learning Network?
Firms work together in Learning Networks for a variety of reasons. Among them are the opportunity to:
- Reduce costs
- Achieve economies of scale, scope and spend
- Enhance their competitiveness in both domestic and international markets
- Increase sales and turnover
- Reduce uncertainty
- Reduce isolation
- Learn from others and absorb best practice
- Raise the profile of the company
- Jointly recognise and improve standards
- Stimulate new business opportunities
- Innovate and commercialise new products and services
- Form new capital bases and create new businesses
How do I join a Skillnet Learning Network?
You can join a funded Learning Network at any time. To find the Learning Network that best meets your company's needs, please view the current Skillnets Learning Networks.
I am a training provider, can I be on the Skillnets list of approved training providers?
Skillnets
does not have a recommended list of training providers. Training providers can
contact Learning Networks individually. Please click
here to find the contact details of our Networks.