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Looking for expert guidance? Connect with a Certified FactoryXChange Digital Strategist for a 30-minute consultation. Our diverse team of specialists can help you: · Identify your digital challenges and goals across any industry or business size. · Explore relevant technologies and resources tailored to your unique needs. · Gain valuable insights and recommendations to move forward. Schedule your 100% discounted consultation now, and don't hesitate to secure further consultations when required! About Ainara Grajales @ TisaLabs: Ainara is an IoT Manager at TisaLabs, specialising in secure IoT systems, data pipelines, digital maturity assessments, and cybersecurity for manufacturing and connected environments. With experience across edge-to-cloud architectures, operational data flows, and IT/OT security, Ainara helps organisations turn technical complexity into practical, reliable solutions that support smarter decisions, stronger security, and measurable digital progress. Supporting: · Manufacturing SMEs · SMEs · Public sector organisations · 2nd sector organisations – European based organisations and enterprises (non-state funded) · 2nd sector organisations – Large industries Expert in: · AI & Data · Cybersecurity · Test Before Invest Connect with Ainara on LinkedIn: https://ie.linkedin.com/in/ainara-grajales

Looking for expert guidance? Connect with a Certified FactoryXChange Digital Strategist for a 30-minute consultation. Our diverse team of specialists can help you: · Identify your digital challenges and goals across any industry or business size. · Explore relevant technologies and resources tailored to your unique needs. · Gain valuable insights and recommendations to move forward. Schedule your 100% discounted consultation now, and don't hesitate to secure further consultations when required! About Mohammed Hassine @ TisaLabs Limited: Mo Hassine is an experienced digital strategist and founder of Tisalabs, specialising in IoT, AI driven solutions and digital twins for critical infrastructure and industry. With over 25 years’ experience across product management, cloud and storage architecture, cybersecurity, and smart grid innovation, he helps organisations turn complex connected device and data technologies into practical transformation roadmaps that improve resilience, unlock new services, and deliver measurable business outcomes. Supporting: · Manufacturing SMEs · SMEs · Public sector organisations · 2nd sector organisations – European based organisations and enterprises (non-state funded) · 2nd sector organisations – Large industries Expert in: · AI & Data · Cybersecurity · Test Before Invest · Funding Advise for Digital Adoption · Partnerships and Networking for Collaboration · Business Model Innovation Connect with Mo on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mohassine

Looking for expert guidance? Connect with a Certified FactoryXChange Digital Strategist for a 30-minute consultation. Our diverse team of specialists can help you: · Identify your digital challenges and goals across any industry or business size. · Explore relevant technologies and resources tailored to your unique needs. · Gain valuable insights and recommendations to move forward. Schedule your 100% discounted consultation now, and don't hesitate to secure further consultations when required! About Orla Spollen @ Future Cast: Orla Spollen is a Project Manager at Future Cast with over 20 years’ experience across product design, digital manufacturing, engineering, education, and innovation-led project delivery. Her multidisciplinary background combines creative design thinking with practical industry expertise, supporting businesses in the development of innovative manufacturing, automation, and technology solutions. Orla has worked across sectors including engineering, medical devices, construction, manufacturing, and digital fabrication, with extensive experience in product development, CAD/CAM design, packaging engineering, lean manufacturing, and applied innovation. She previously founded and managed a digital manufacturing and laser cutting business, delivering bespoke design and production solutions using advanced fabrication technologies and ecommerce platforms. Her experience also includes lecturing in Creative Design and SolidWorks, alongside industry roles in product development and quality-focused packaging engineering within regulated manufacturing environments. At Future Cast, Orla works closely with industry partners to support collaborative R&D initiatives, innovation strategy, technology adoption, and the development of commercially viable solutions through industry-focused innovation programmes. Supporting: · Manufacturing SMEs · SMEs Expert in: · Sustainable Manufacturing · Business Model Innovation · Test Before Invest · Skills and Workforce Development Connect with Orla on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/orla-spollen-ab03b71a/

Event highlights extended €23 million EDIH programme to support SMEs' uptake of AI and cutting-edge digital technologies, including FXC's specialised digital transformation services. Ireland’s growing reputation as a global leader in digital healthtech innovation was highlighted at a major industry event at Trinity Business School today. Scaling Digital Healthtech in Ireland, hosted by FactoryXChange (FXC) alongside Ireland’s three fellow European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIH), in collaboration with Enterprise Europe Network and Ibec, saw over 400 stakeholders from across the health and life sciences sectors come together to hear from leading experts across government, industry and academia, alongside panel discussions and case studies showcasing real-world innovation and impact. Driving Digital Transformation for Irish SMEs Digital Healthtech represents the combination of smart connected devices and AI-powered digital health tools which are transforming the delivery of healthcare and creating opportunities for new disruptive products and services by Irish companies. The event marks the first in a series of national engagements designed to support Irish SMEs and public sector organisations in accelerating the development and adoption of digitisation and to increase the awareness of supports which are already available. Navigating the Challenges of Scaling Up Ireland has established itself as a hub for cutting-edge healthtech innovation, supported by a thriving ecosystem of technology companies, researchers, and policymakers. The event explored both the opportunities and challenges associated with scaling digital healthtech solutions, including artificial intelligence integration, regulatory compliance, cyber resilience, and access to funding and European markets. Speaking at the event, Minister of State for Trade Promotion, Artificial Intelligence and Digital Transformation Niamh Smyth TD underlined the Government’s commitment to advancing Ireland’s digital health ecosystem. “Today highlights the strength of Ireland’s digital transformation and its growing, innovative healthtech ecosystem. The Government recognises the importance of maintaining and building on this momentum. At the end of 2025, €23 million was announced through my Department and the Digital Europe Programme to extend the European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIH) Programme to 2029. This investment will enable our hubs to significantly accelerate digitalisation among SMEs and public sector organisations, delivering over 3,000 engagements, 1,100 “Test Before Invest” projects, and more than 200 training courses nationwide. As work progresses on the National Life Sciences Strategy, Ireland is well positioned to lead the future development of this sector. Bringing together industry, innovation, and expertise is essential to achieving our shared ambition: supporting Irish companies to scale globally while delivering meaningful benefits for patients and healthcare systems. These efforts are reinforced by a wide range of supports designed to help SMEs grow and internationalise their digital health solutions. These include Enterprise Ireland, the National Enterprise Hub, Local Enterprise Offices, Ibec, Health Innovation Hub Ireland, the European Enterprise Network, and the network of European Digital Innovation Hubs operating across Ireland.” Strengthening Industry Collaboration Joe Healy, Head of Research and Innovation at Enterprise Ireland said: “Through the European Digital Innovation Hubs, we are supporting Irish enterprises of all sizes and stages to harness advanced technologies, build capability, and compete internationally. This event demonstrates the importance of connecting the network to drive uptake of the supports on offer and strengthening collaboration across industry, government and academia.” Ciara Finlay, Ibec Senior Executive said: “Demographic shifts accompanied by the rise of chronic diseases, coupled with the recent impact of the greatest global health emergency in over a century have highlighted the importance of fostering better health system resilience across the world. Digital Health is a solution that can unlock some of the challenges ahead. The digital health segment is estimated to grow at over 17.4% between 2021 and 2027 to €426 billion. The Medtech, digital health, and biopharma sectors in Ireland already stand out with 700+ companies, employing 130,000 people and exports in excess of €136 billion. The Ibec Digital Health Working Group’s vision is to enable Ireland to become a recognised global hub for digital health by supporting organisations from startups to FDI multinationals. Partnering with the European Digital Innovation Hubs on events like this will help them address unmet clinical needs, grow our economy, and notably improve health outcomes.” What’s Next for the EDIH National Series? As an EDIH driving meaningful manufacturing and digital transformation, FXC will continue to collaborate on this national series. The roadshow will continue later this year with Ireland’s EDIH network and EEN hosting additional events focusing on the manufacturing, tourism, and construction sectors. To find out how your business can leverage the extended €23 million EDIH funding scheme and take control of your digital transformation journey, visit our services directory or book a free consultation with an FXC Digital Strategist today.

FactoryXChange 2.0, led by Irish Manufacturing Research (IMR), has secured €5.7 million in funding from the European Commission and Enterprise Ireland to deliver digital and sustainable manufacturing supports over the next three years. The funding was announced by Peter Burke TD, Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, and will enable Irish manufacturers and public sector organisations to future-proof their operations through access to advanced digital technologies and expert support.   Ireland’s manufacturing sector faces growing pressure from rising costs, global competition, and the urgent need to embrace digital and green technologies. Companies must adopt artificial intelligence (AI), high-performance computing (HPC), and cybersecurity to stay competitive and relevant.   FactoryXChange (FXC) is Ireland and Europe’s leading catalyst for sustainable, human-centric manufacturing transformation. Led by Irish Manufacturing Research (IMR) and supported by 17 expert partners nationwide, FXC 2.0 has secured 40% funding (€2.3 million) from the European Digital Innovation Hub (EDIH) programme with match funding of 60% (€3.4 million) from Enterprise Ireland to continue their work in helping Irish businesses move from uncertainty to action by offering up to 100% discounted services and tailored support, harnessing advanced technologies in a way that is ethical and sustainable.   Manufacturing is the backbone of the Irish economy. According to the Central Statistics Office (CSO), the sector directly employs more than 220,000 people. It accounts for over 34% of Ireland’s GDP – more than double the European average of 15%. In 2023, goods exports reached €197.25 billion, generating €13.7 billion in wages, €3.03 billion in income tax, and more than €10 billion in corporation tax.   FactoryXChange is coordinated by Karin Jancykova, Senior Programme Manager, IMR and operates through a national network of 17 consortium of partners in digital innovation, AI and robotics. Together, the consortium makes advanced digital tools and expertise accessible to businesses and public sector bodies across Ireland. FXC 1.0 supported over 495 Irish enterprises and public organisations SMEs to become more competitive in their business and production processes through digital transformation.   Speaking about the announcement, Peter Burke TD, Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, said:   “ Extending the European Digital Innovation Hub programme in Ireland into Phase 2 ensures that our SMEs will continue to access world-class digitalisation support. By maintaining this momentum, we are increasing Ireland’s competitiveness and enabling enterprises across Ireland to future-proof their operations. This continued investment reflects our commitment to making advanced digital technologies accessible for every region and sector. ”     FXC’s funding application received the highest possible score from the European Commission and was awarded the prestigious STEP – Seal of Excellence. This places FXC among a select group of projects recognised for outstanding quality and impact. The award underlines the consortium’s proven ability to deliver and unlock new opportunities for additional support, ensuring that Ireland remains a leader in sustainable and innovative manufacturing.   FactoryXChange 2.0 will apply the new funding to empower Irish businesses by connecting them with advanced digital technologies, expert advice, and funding to integrate ecological, digital, and societal solutions, thereby fostering sustainable growth and competitiveness. Through a collaborative, one-stop-shop approach, FXC and its 17 partners transform digital innovations into practical, impactful solutions that benefit both society and the economy, particularly focusing on enabling Industry 5.0 factories and accelerating digital transformation.   Manufacturers and public sector organisations can now engage with FactoryXChange 2.0 to access expert support and discounted services and help shape the future of Irish industry.

Avoca Seafood is an early-stage, pre-revenue SME in the Irish aquaculture sector, with a bold vision to develop a Circular Marine Park in Ireland. Between July and December 2024, FactoryXChange supported Avoca Seafood and its associated parties in exploring this ambitious project, including the preparation of a pre-investment case analysis. The engagement not only helped define the capital requirements but also identified the socio-economic opportunities and digitalisation needs to make the vision feasible.  Challenges   Like many SMEs at the beginning of their digital journey, Avoca Seafood faced several challenges. Investments in digital technologies were limited, focusing mainly on administrative tasks, while advanced solutions such as AI, IoT, and automation were not yet in place. Employee digital skills were basic, with little structured training, and many processes remained manual or paper-based. Data management and cybersecurity strategies were still developing, and customer-facing digital tools, including e-commerce and CRM systems, were underutilised.  Even for more advanced SMEs, similar challenges persist in scaling digitalisation. While staff may already be skilled and mainstream tools widely adopted, gaps remain in integrating advanced technologies, fully automating processes, improving data interoperability, and embedding sustainability into digital strategies.  Solutions Implemented   Avoca Seafood took steps to address these challenges. For SMEs at the early stage, the focus was on creating a clear digitalisation plan, allocating resources for IT infrastructure, and involving digital specialists to guide transformation. Mainstream technologies such as ERP and CRM systems were introduced to streamline operations and enhance customer interactions. Training programmes were developed to upskill employees, and initial data management and cybersecurity measures were implemented.  For the moderately advanced stage, the plan included integrating advanced technologies such as AI and automation to improve productivity and decision-making. Data systems were strengthened to allow real-time access across departments, while green ICT initiatives were prioritised to ensure sustainable operations and reduce environmental impact.  Results and Benefits   Even at the early stage, Avoca Seafood began to see tangible benefits. Digital tools streamlined internal processes, reduced operational costs, and created new opportunities for market expansion through e-commerce. Employees became more engaged and confident as they gained new digital skills.  For more advanced stages, the adoption of data-driven strategies and automation enabled better decision-making and freed employees to focus on higher-value activities. Digitalisation supported the development of innovative, digitally enhanced products and services, and sustainability measures reduced environmental impact while strengthening the company’s reputation.  Perceived Social and Economic Impact   The socio-economic impact of Avoca Seafood’s initiative is significant. The Circular Marine Park project is expected to create over 750 direct jobs, with an additional 1,000 to 1,500 positions in subsidiary roles as the facilities become operational. Capital investment in land-based facilities and the park could increase productivity in the Irish aquaculture sector by 850%, potentially generating up to €500 million over the next ten years.  On a social level, digitalisation and training improved employee confidence, retention, and career development opportunities. Economically, the company is better positioned to compete both domestically and internationally, while sustainability initiatives demonstrate responsibility toward the environment and community.  Measurable Data   The impact of digitalisation and business growth can be measured in several ways:  Percentage of operations using digital tools  Number and type of processes automated  Staff participation in digital training and upskilling programmes  Customer satisfaction and retention rates  Cost savings from digitalised operations  Proportion of documents and processes digitised  Reductions in paper use, emissions, or energy consumption  Cybersecurity incidents prevented  Lessons Learned   Do:   Invest steadily in both mainstream and advanced digital tools  Create and follow a structured digitalisation plan across all departments  Provide ongoing training for staff at all levels  Involve IT specialists in decision-making  Align digitalisation efforts with sustainability and green practices  Implement robust cybersecurity measures and data management policies  Don’t:   Delay investments in emerging technologies such as AI and automation  Allow digitalisation to remain siloed in administrative functions only  Rely on partial or ad hoc automation without a strategy  Overlook employee engagement in digital adoption  Neglect environmental considerations in IT and operational choices