FactoryXChange 2.0, one of Ireland's four European Digital Innovation Hubs, has officially commenced its next phase of operations, backed by a €23 million investment from the European Union and Enterprise Ireland covering the 2026 to 2029 period. The launch marks a significant commitment to helping Irish manufacturers navigate digital transformation, with direct implications for businesses seeking to adopt AI, automation and advanced manufacturing technologies.

As reported by ThinkBusiness, Irish Manufacturing Research brought together representatives from all 17 consortium partners at its Mullingar headquarters to mark the start of the new delivery phase. Around 60 delegates from across the consortium and client SMEs attended, with the afternoon featuring workshops covering data and artificial intelligence, skills development and test-before-invest initiatives.

FactoryXChange 2.0 builds on activity delivered since 2023, during which the programme supported more than 500 businesses through more than 660 innovation services, generating over €6 million in requested service value. The programme now enters a three-year delivery period supported by more than 55 experts across the 17-partner network.

Maurice O'Connell, chief operating officer at Irish Manufacturing Research, said: "Manufacturers are operating in an increasingly complex environment. Rising costs, skills shortages, sustainability requirements and growing international competition are putting pressure on businesses of all sizes. At the same time, technologies such as AI, automation and advanced analytics are creating opportunities to improve productivity, efficiency and resilience. With Phase 2 funding secured, we can now turn that commitment into action, working closely with partners across the country to help manufacturers de-risk innovation, accelerate adoption and unlock new opportunities for growth and competitiveness."

The launch event included a keynote from Livio Rubino of the European Commission's AI Office on artificial intelligence and inclusive growth, alongside an overview of EDIH supports from Laura Clifford, Enterprise Ireland's senior programme manager for EDIH and IC3.

Karin Jancyková, project coordinator of FactoryXChange 2.0, said: "Manufacturers do not need more complexity. They need practical support, trusted expertise and access to the right technologies at the right time. Having all 17 partners together in Mullingar reflects the scale of the network now behind FactoryXChange 2.0, and the shared commitment to making innovation more accessible for manufacturers as we move into this next phase."