Bridging the Digital Skills Gap: Empowering SMEs for the Future. A European Conference Showcasing Project EAGLE

DATE: November 20, 2025

TIME: 8:30 am - 2:45 pm

VENUE: IBC2, University of Limerick, Limerick

The University of Limerick (UL) will host the Project EAGLE Final Conference on Thursday, 20th November 2025, bringing together partners from across Europe to mark the culmination of a major EU-funded initiative under the Digital Europe Programme.

About Project EAGLE

Project EAGLE (CovEring the trAining Gap in digital skills for European SMEs manpower) is coordinated by Universidad de Burgos and delivered through a consortium of European universities and industry partners, including University of Limerick and Skillnet Ireland.  The project developed and delivered a suite of specialised training courses to address digital skills gaps in SMEs.  These courses focused on emerging technologies and strategic digital competencies, covering areas such as robotics and automation, data analytics and ethical AI, blockchain, cybersecurity and cybercrime, and energy-tech systems.

The conference will showcase the project’s achievements and will present its recommendations and will provide a platform for dialogue on future digital skills strategies aligned with European priorities.

What to Expect at the Conference

The conference offers in-person and online options and will showcase the project’s achievements, present the Project EAGLE Recommendations, and provide a platform for dialogue on future digital skills strategies aligned with European priorities.  Attendees will also receive a practical takeaway: a compact guide to relevant supports and resources for small and medium enterprises. Whether attending on-site or online, you’ll be able to access this via a QR code shared during the conference.

Highlights Include

  • A keynote address on AI and Supply Chain Digitalisation (Mr Tim Crowe, CEO WorxFlo)
  • A panel discussion on partnerships between industry, academia, and training networks to support SME digital transformation (Panel: Prof Martin Hayes (UL), Mr Tim Crowe (CEO, WorxFlo), Ms Michelle Guthrie (Skillnet Ireland Development Advisor for South West), Mr Kevin Geary (Director of Engineering & Strategic Projects, Croom Medical), and Ms Shirley Walsh (CEO, Shannon Coiled Springs Ltd.)
  • Supports for 2026 and beyond: Insights into local and European initiatives supporting SME digitalisation

Who Should Attend

This event is ideal for SMEs, educators, policy makers, and training providers seeking to engage with the latest thinking and practical strategies for digital transformation.

Date: Thursday, 20th November 2025
Location: IBC2, University of Limerick
https://www.ul.ie/gps/events/project-eagle-conference

For queries or logistics support, please contact  Rhoda Sohun at the University of Limerick (Rhoda.Sohun@ul.ie)

REGISTER FOR EVENT (in person or online options)