Republic of Work Launches ‘Pathway to Innovate’ to Empower SMEs
L-R) GAVIN JEFFEREY, BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER - LUDGATE HUB; DERMOT CASEY, CEO IRDG; KEIRA KINEHAN, STRATEGIC PROJECTS MANAGER AT SKILLNET IRELAND; SINEAD O'RIORDAN, HEAD OF PARTNERSHIPS-SKILLNET INNOVATION EXCHANGE; FRANK BRENNAN, CEO REPUBLIC OF WORK; CONOR CARMODY, PROGRAMME DIRECTOR - SKILLNET INNOVATION EXCHANGE
Republic of Work has announced the launch of Pathway to Innovate, a new programme designed to help SMEs strengthen their innovation and entrepreneurship capabilities.
Developed in partnership with Skillnet Innovation Exchange and IRDG, the initiative offers SMEs from all industries the chance to collaborate with industry experts, identify the most relevant supports from funding to mentoring, and create actionable strategies for growth.
“The initiative is designed for ambitious SMEs that want to scale with confidence while future-proofing their organisations. We’ve seen so many successful businesses come through our doors — it’s incredibly rewarding and exciting to witness”
Pathway to Innovate provides innovative and entrepreneurial support to SMEs.
Future-proofing
Earlier this year, Republic of Work was recognised by The Financial Times as one of Europe’s top 50 startup hubs, ranking in the top 10 across the UK and Ireland and among the top two in Ireland.
At Republic of Work, we’re passionate about championing the incredible talent, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit that thrives across Cork and Ireland. From early-stage startups to established SMEs, we love supporting local businesses that are shaping the future of their industries.
Our hub isn’t just a workspace — it’s a community. A place where ideas are shared, collaborations are sparked, and people come together to make great things happen. By working hand in hand with local partners, initiatives, and innovators, we’re proud to play our part in helping Ireland’s business community grow stronger, more connected, and future-focused.
Connecting SMEs with support that drives growth.
We were delighted to host an engaging fireside chat with James Flynn, Co-Founder and CEO of COSO AI in conversation with Sinéad O’Riordan, Head of Partnerships at Skillnet Innovation Exchange. Their discussion offered valuable insights into the evolving role of AI, innovation, and collaboration in today’s business landscape.
The evening also featured an inspiring keynote from Joe Lennon, Founder and CTO of Workvivo by Zoom, who shared his journey from startup founder to global success story — offering plenty of motivation for the entrepreneurs and innovators in attendance.
Conor Carmody, programme director at Skillnet Innovation Exchange, said that, for SMEs, “innovation doesn’t have to mean going it alone”. “Pathway to innovate connects businesses with the right mentors, supports, and peers to unlock practical, measurable results,” said Mr Carmody.
Want to learn more and connect with the right people for your business? Join us at our clinic on November 20th in Republic of Work, 8:45am - 3:30pm.
All industries welcome.
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