Skillnet announces 50% funding for Regional Leaders Programme

Waterford Chamber is delighted to announce its sister company Waterford Chamber Skillnet has recognised the Regional Leaders Programme as an official training programme under the Skillnet Ireland brand.

Speaking about the programme, Waterford Chamber Skillnet Network Manager Sara Mullally said: “This programme fits in perfectly with the Skillnet ethos of supporting people in business through training and development. To celebrate the partnership, we are this year in a position to fund the participant cost by 50%, reducing the cost from €350 for Chamber members, to €175, which makes it affordable and accessible to all, whether you are a large employer with a number of managers looking to get involved, or a start-up in need of additional support.”

Responding to the need to develop a pipeline of future leaders in the South East region, Waterford Chamber, with the support of Waterford Chamber Skillnet and Bausch + Lomb, designed the Regional Leaders Programme to develop business leaders for the future through mentorship and skills sharing. Waterford Institute of Technology have also come on board to support the 2018/19 programme, which is aimed at professionals who want to develop their leadership skills or for companies who would like to increase the capacity of their internal talent pool to ensure the next generation of their company is in safe hands.

Speaking about the Skillnet funding, Waterford Chamber CEO Gerald Hurley said: “It is fantastic that Waterford Chamber Skillnet are in a position to offer 50% funding this year. Supporting business growth is to the core of what we do at Waterford Chamber and as an additional support to start-ups in the first three years of business, we will also include free Chamber membership for a year. Throughout the nine months, participants will have access to a host of successful mentors on a one to one basis, as well as monthly group mentoring sessions. In addition, we have three hugely inspiring speakers lined up for our networking lunches, Dr Norah Patten of the International Space University; Founder of Dublin Aerospace Conor McCarthy and Waterford businessman Michael Doherty, who is CEO of Woodbrook Group.

“By getting involved with the Regional Leaders Programme, you are in effect joining the largest networking body in the region right now, expanding your connections and learning from each other. Based on the feedback we received after year one, we have enhanced the offering this year and are delighted with the significant take up already.”

To find out more about the Regional Leaders Programme call Kelly Cummins on 051 872639.