Skillnet Ireland
MentorsWork
aka MentorsWork Skillnet, MentorsWork SME programme
Free 12-week mentoring and learning programme funded by Skillnet Ireland and delivered with the Small Firms Association, pairing SMEs with a senior business mentor.
Free 12-week programme (no cash element)
Last reviewed May 2026
What this scheme funds
MentorsWork is a structured 12-week SME development programme jointly funded by Skillnet Ireland and run with the Small Firms Association. Participants are matched with an experienced business mentor and complete a programme of one-to-one sessions, masterclasses, and self-paced learning content across four pillars: business strategy, financial management, people management, and digital and innovation. The programme is free at the point of use for eligible SMEs and is genuinely one of the more credible state-funded mentoring offers - it is run in tightly cohorted intakes rather than as a passive resource. For software-buying SMEs, MentorsWork frequently surfaces the strategic case (or counter-case) for adopting a CRM, payroll, or ERP platform before the cash is committed.
Application window
Cohort intakes typically run two to three times per year
Who can apply
- •Irish SME with up to 250 employees
- •Engaged owner-manager or senior decision-maker available for the 12-week programme
- •Trading for at least one year (typically)
- •Applies in an open intake window
How it typically funds software
- •Builds the strategic case (or counter-case) for adopting a major software platform
- •Connects participants with peers running through similar software-procurement decisions
Software categories this can fund
Related grants
Skillnet Ireland
Skillnet Ireland Training Networks
Subsidised, industry-led training delivered through sector and regional learning networks - employers typically pay 30-50% of the commercial cost.
Local Enterprise Office
Digital for Business
Mentor-led digital transformation programme for businesses with 11-50 employees, with a follow-on grant of up to EUR9,000 (50:50 cofunded) for implementation.