What we do
The ICOS Skillnet is a network of member co-operatives nationwide. Members use the network to avail of grant-assisted training and networking opportunities for their owners, managers and staff.
We believe that members need to improve the skills of their workforce if they are to grow and be successful in today’s business environment.
The ICOS Skillnet application under the Skillnet Ireland Training Networks Programme 2018/19 has been successful and grant aid for 2019 has been secured.
The network’s long term strategy is to continue in supporting the co-op and agri-business sectors in meeting their training & development needs to sustain competitiveness and growth for the sectors.
We provide training in the following areas: Co-operative & Industrial Provident Society Director
Training; People Management; Planning & Strategy; Management Development; Communication Skills; Sales & Marketing; Finance; Technical Skills; Health & Safety and Information Technology.
For further information on ICOS Skillnet, please contact (01) 613-1348 or email info@icosskillnet.ie
The ICOS Skillnet is funded by Skillnet Ireland and member companies. Skillnet Ireland is funded from the National Training Fund through the Department of Education and Skills.
Our aims
The aims of the programme are:
- To provide industry specific, customised and most relevant training to the member companies in order to improve their competitiveness.
- To promote training as a viable strategic tool.
- To improve the quality of training and development activities and provide real opportunities to employees of the member companies.
- To assist in creating a long term future for co-operative businesses in rural areas.
- To contribute to the upskilling of the unemployed.
Promoting Agency
Steering Group
Member Companies
About Skillnet Ireland
Management Development
Enhancing management capacity, particularly in SMEs, is key priority for all Skillnet Ireland networks. In addition to the programmes our network delivers, Skillnet Ireland has a suite of Management Development Programmes available to help business owners and managers improve business performance and enable businesses achieve better results. Click here for more information on the Skillnet Ireland website.
Employment Activation Programmes
ICOS Skillnet focusses on supporting those in employment within the co-operative and agri-business sector. A number of other Skillnet Networks participate in the Skillnet Ireland Employment Activation programme. This initiative is designed exclusively for unemployed people and includes free training in skills in demand by companies combined with direct access to employers through meaningful work placements. For further information on Skillnet Networks offering free training programmes for those seeking employment, subject to eligibility criteria, see the Skillnet Ireland website.
Testimonials
“At Callan Co-op, we have found ICOS Skillnet to be an invaluable partner in
supporting the development and growth of our business. Their tailored management
training programmes have helped equip our team with the skills and confidence to
lead effectively in a rapidly changing environment.
In addition, the board strategy training facilitated by ICOS Skillnet has played a key
role in shaping our long-term vision and governance approach. The practical,
relevant, and high-quality support we receive from the ICOS Skillnet team continues
to make a real and lasting impact on our organisation.
We are very grateful for the relationship and look forward to continuing to work
together as our business evolves.
James Fitzgerald, CEO & Secretary
Callan Co-op
“We are delighted to partner with ICOS Skillnet and leverage available funding support for our newly developed and launched People Manager Fundamentals Programme. This investment in our People Leaders is a critical component of our Strategy.
The ICOS Skillnet funding supports us to invest in the continuous development of our people managers, who are responsible for delivering on our ambitious business strategy through the day-to-day contribution of their teams. This support of our programme allows us to equip and empower our people managers to lead performance focused teams across our business.
Read more“
Anne Smith, Group Head of Talent
Lakeland Dairies
“The support we receive from ICOS Skillnet has significantly boosted our workforces’ skills and productivity.
Their high-quality, tailored training programs have equipped our employees with the latest industry knowledge, empowering our employees to grow professionally and stay ahead in a competitive market. The flexibility and variety of courses offered have made continuous development an integral part of our company culture.
Read more“
Ann Quigley, HR Manager
Centenary Thurles Co-operative Society
