Enterprise Nation Launches Tech Consortium

New Tech Hub Platform Will Provide Practical Support and Digital Training for Ireland’s Small Business Community

Dublin, 12 November 2024 – Today, Enterprise Nation, the platform championing small businesses in Ireland, announced the launch of the Small Business Tech Consortium—a unique initiative designed to amplify the voices of Ireland’s smallest businesses and enable them to accelerate digital adoption to grow.  

Supported by leading technology partners including Amazon, Google, Square, .ie, and GS1, the Small Business Tech Consortium is dedicated to creating practical, accessible solutions to address the challenges of digital adoption for Ireland’s smallest businesses.

The Small Business Tech Consortium focuses on identifying the needs of Ireland’s small business owners, providing a platform where their voices and perspectives are front and centre.

New Small Business Research

Research* carried out by Enterprise Nation reveals that almost six in ten small business owners aren’t using technology due to the cost of licensing and fees while 40% are steering away from using technology because they lack the skills.    Of those who use technology tools, almost half (45%) report increasing sales as a result.  While three quarters have saved time, and over half  say they can collaborate better with team members, customers and suppliers.

Key Priorities

Key priorities for the consortium’s first year include mapping the digital skills gap across small business sectors, developing training programmes and resources, and creating frameworks that support digital resilience and long-term growth for small enterprises.

To further drive practical support, Enterprise Nation has introduced the Tech Hub, a new platform designed specifically to provide small businesses with personalised digital tools, training, and resources. Through the Tech Hub, businesses can access diagnostic tools, action plans, and expert support tailored to their unique needs, helping them harness technology to drive sustainable growth.

“With the Small Business Tech Consortium, we’re building a platform where small businesses have a powerful voice in shaping the digital landscape of Ireland.   It’s a unique format in Ireland where we’re bringing together the smallest businesses and global technology leaders in truly collaborative setting,” said Joanne Mangan, Ireland Country Manager at Enterprise Nation. “By focusing on the specific digital needs of small businesses, with the support and know-how of some of the largest technology companies in the world, we’re committed to developing real solutions that remove barriers to technology adoption and equip business owners with the skills they need to thrive.”

Key Initiatives of the Tech Consortium:

• Research & Reports: Providing data-driven insights into the digital challenges and opportunities for Ireland’s small business sector.
• Workshops, Roundtables & Events: Creating spaces for small business owners and tech experts to share knowledge and collaboratively address digital needs.
• Recommendations:   Evidence based recommendations to remove barriers and improve digital adoption by small businesses.

The Tech Hub stands as a direct support platform within this effort, offering diagnostics, expert advice, and customised tools for small businesses navigating digital transformation.

For more information on the Small Business Tech Consortium and Tech Hub, please visit the Enterprise Nation website.