Skills and costs hold SMEs back on digital transformation

Vodafone Business Ireland joins Tech Hub Ireland to boost small business digital adoption.

New research reveals 60% of firms avoid using new technology because of costs.

As part of a mission to resolve this, Vodafone Business Ireland has joined Tech Hub Ireland as its newest strategic technology partner, Enterprise Nation has confirmed.

“Only by listening to and understanding the real challenges faced by businesses of all sizes will we get to that point of digital transformation”

Tech Hub is a direct support platform, offering diagnostics, expert advice, and customized tools for small businesses navigating digital transformation. It was built by Enterprise Nation and is supported by Vodafone Business Ireland, Amazon, Google, Square, .ie, and GS1.

Vodafone has also joined the Small Business Tech Consortium, a group dedicated to amplifying the voices of Ireland’s smallest businesses and removing barriers to technology adoption. The consortium includes representatives from small Irish businesses such as Nutty Delights, Pumpskynz, Civic Dollars, My Kids Time, and Tap Retail.

Upcoming AI event

As part of this initiative, Vodafone will host Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment Peter Burke on Wednesday, May 7, at a Tech Hub event focused on AI adoption.

The event, “The AI Advantage: How small businesses can embrace this new technology,” will feature insights from industry leaders and practical experiences from Irish entrepreneurs.

Research by Enterprise Nation shows that nearly 60% of small business owners avoid using technology due to licensing costs and fees, while 40% cite a lack of necessary skills.

However, businesses that do adopt technology report significant benefits: 45% see increased sales, 75% save time, and over half experience improved collaboration with team members, customers, and suppliers.

“Through this strategic partnership, and in collaboration with these partners, we can collectively develop a solution that has small businesses deeply at its heart,” said Sinead Perry, Head of Small & Medium Business with Vodafone Ireland. “We know businesses that adopt technology are more efficient, agile and future-ready.”

Perry added: “Only by listening to and understanding the real challenges faced by businesses of all sizes will we get to that point of digital transformation. That’s why the work of this partnership is vital and we’re delighted to be part of it. Vodafone is committed to providing the infrastructure and connectivity to allow small businesses to thrive in a digital world.”

“We’re thrilled Vodafone Business Ireland has joined our collaboration of global technology leaders, helping us to give small businesses a powerful voice in shaping the digital landscape of Ireland,” said Joanne Mangan, Ireland Country Manager at Enterprise Nation.

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