Pathway to Innovate empowers SMEs on their innovation journey in the Mid West

Pathway to Innovate launches to empower SMEs in the Mid and South West on their innovation journey. Picture: Keith Wiseman

New Pathway to Innovate programme provides innovation and entrepreneurship support to SMEs in the Mid and South West region

Pathway to Innovate, a new programme providing innovation and entrepreneurship supports to SMEs in the Mid and South West region, has officially been launched.

The new programme, from Skillnet Innovation Exchange and IRDG Innovation Skillnet, gives SMEs the opportunity to collaborate with business experts, identify the most relevant supports, and develop actionable strategies that lead to measurable outcomes.

As part of the pilot, Pathway to Innovate will host a series of fully funded, hands-on, expert-led clinics designed to deliver tailored advice for SMEs across the South and South West with events in RDI Hub, Kerry – Wednesday, October 8th; and Engine Collaboration Centre, Limerick – Tuesday, October 14th.

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The clinics run from 8:45am to 3:30pm and will include case studies, interactive workshops, networking, diagnostic reflection, and ecosystem support.

Conor Carmody, Programme Director at Skillnet Innovation Exchange, leading the initiative, explains: “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. The key is finding what fits your business best.”

The programme officially launched on September 17th in Limerick, at Engine Collaboration Centre, where guests heard from business leaders including Mayor of Limerick, John Moran and Dr Paul Byrnes, Founder of Maverick.

Dr Paul Byrnes advised, “Innovation doesn’t struggle from lack of support, it thrives on choosing the right support. Be honest about what your business truly needs, seek out what matches, and then commit fully: choose boldly, act with confidence, and measure progress every step of the way.”

Meghan Daly-Tyrell, Business Development Manager at RDI Hub which will host the Kerry clinic on October 8th said “Innovation stalls not for lack of support, but for lack of direction. Pathway to Innovate empowers SMEs to pinpoint their true needs and connect with solutions that deliver measurable impact – it’s a no-brainer.”

Dennis Barry, CEO at Innovate Limerick, concluded, “Many businesses are so caught up in daily operations that they seldom have time to explore opportunities for growth.

“Pathway to Innovate does the hard work, helping companies navigate the options, pinpoint the right supports, and create a clear innovation roadmap. It’s practical, targeted, and exactly what SMEs need to move forward with confidence.”

Pathway to Innovate provides support to SMEs to navigate the route to innovation and convert it into business growth. The programme offers a series of clinics and upskilling supports delivered by Skillnet Business Networks and national initiatives including IRDG Innovation Skillnet, ISME Skillnet, Skillnet Innovation Exchange, Irish MedTech Skillnet and Taste4Succes Skillnet.

Spaces are limited, and SMEs are encouraged to register their interest at pathwaytoinnovate.ie to receive tailored guidance aligned to their specific objectives.