
MentorsWork invests €6.5m to support SMEs since 2020
MentorsWork, an initiative of Skillnet Ireland in partnership with the Small Firms Association (SFA), celebrates its five-year anniversary this week.
Since its launch in 2020, MentorsWork has provided targeted business supports to nearly 4,000 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across the country and invested €6.5m to drive SME growth, resilience, and innovation.
MentorsWork provides targeted support across critical areas, including digitisation, HR management, sales, finance, marketing, sustainability, and overall business growth.
The initiative is open to business owners and managers from all industries with one to 250 employees.
The 12-week programme introduces participants to a dedicated and experienced mentor who works with them to address their specific areas of concern, alongside masterclasses and peer-to-peer workshops.
Mark Jordan, chief executive of Skillnet Ireland, said the programme is a fantastic resource for SMEs, delivering practical supports and strategic guidance to businesses across Ireland.
"Expert mentors provide education and information to SME owners on how to innovate, adopt new technologies and adjust to ever-changing market dynamics - particularly in the current economic and technological climate," he said.
"It is a testament to the success of the programme that it has reached this half decade milestone, and we look forward to its continued success and growth into the future," he added.
David Broderick, Director of the Small Firms Association, said the five year milestone reflects the strength and value of the MentorsWork programme in helping SMEs overcome real-world challenges.
"The initiative has been a game-changer for so many businesses. By addressing specific needs and equipping SMEs with tailored support and mentoring, we are helping them not only survive but thrive in an increasingly competitive environment," he added.

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