Leader of the Independent Team of Ministers and Minister for International and Road Transport, Logistics, Rails and Ports Seán Canney TD, has welcomed the launch of Springboard+ 2025, which offers nearly 8,000 free and subsidised places on higher education courses across Ireland — including over 700 places available through Galway-based providers.

The places in Galway are spread across University of Galway, Galway Business School, and Atlantic Technological University (ATU) Galway-Mayo, across its campuses in Galway and Mayo.

Minister Canney said: “Springboard+ 2025 represents a major opportunity for people in Galway to futureproof their careers and access new skills in growth sectors. With over 700 places available locally, this is a strong investment in the talent and potential of the West.

I’m particularly pleased to see such a wide range of courses being offered by University of Galway, Galway Business School, and ATU. These institutions are playing a key role in making lifelong learning more accessible and more impactful.”

Springboard+ offers flexible, part-time and online learning opportunities in areas like Cybersecurity, Artificial Intelligence, Renewable Energy, Infrastructure Planning, and Sustainability. Courses range from short micro-credentials to full postgraduate qualifications (Level 6–9 NFQ).

Applicants in employment pay just 10% of course fees, while those who are unemployed or returning to work can access courses for free.

Applications open on 3rd June at www.springboardcourses.ie, with start dates between 1st July and 31st October 2025.