There are a number of special programmes available to small business.Check out this page to ensure that you are aware of the opportunities for your business.
MicroTrade is a programme that helps small businesses engage in cross-border trade and co-operation on the island of Ireland. MicroTrade is an initiative of the County & City Enterprise Boards of the Republic of Ireland and Enterprise Northern Ireland, and is supported by InterTradeIreland. Microtrade offers a range of supports including funding, training and networking events. Browse the site to learn more. www.microtrade.org
InterTradeIreland, the Trade and Business Development Body, is one of the six cross-border bodies set up under the 1998 Belfast Agreement. The Agreement defines Intertrade’s role as a Body to exchange information and co-ordinate work on trade, business development and related matters, in areas where the two administrations specifically agree it would be in their mutual interest.
InterTradeIreland’s value proposition is straightforward: The provision of business solutions that enhance company competitiveness through collaborative all-island initiatives in the following five areas.
Science, Technology and Innovation Sales & Marketing
Business Capability Improvement
Business Network Support Services
Business & Economic Research
For further information see www.intertradeireland.com
The South East Enterprise Platform Programme is a one year business start-up support programme, managed by Waterford Institute of Technology (WIT) in conjunction with Enterprise Ireland and Tipperary Institute. This comprehensive programme is designed to provide hands-on support to entrepreneurs as they develop their business idea to a commercially-trading entity. The range of supports provided include:
• Business Management Skills training – up to 30 days training throughout the year, covering areas such as Intellectual Property Management, Cashflow Management, Marketing Plan Process, Best Practice Business Plans, Sales Techniques, PR, Risk Management. Workshops are held one day per week.
• Incubation Space – the programme offers dedicated incubation space in the Research & Innovation Centre on Waterford Institute of Technology’s new Carriganore Campus on the outskirts of Waterford city (adjacent to Waterford City by-pass). Facilities include desktop computer, VoIP telephony with dedicated business telephone number, high speed internet access, meeting and video-conferencing facilities, photocopying, scanning and printing facilities, free on-site parking, dining and catering facilities
• Mentoring – each participant is provided with a mentor to guide them through the process.
• Funding – participants receive Euro 6,600 throughout the year in the form of a monthly training grant from the Department of Education & Science *. A further EUR1,100 is available in materials and travel expenses. Participants may also apply to Enterprise Ireland for CORD (Commercialisation of Research & Development) funding. Details of the specific qualification criteria available from Enterprise Ireland www.enterprise-ireland.com
• Networking – participants form an immediate network with other participants on the programme, past and present. Networking events are organised throughout the year at which participants may network with government support agencies, potential investors and other entrepreneurs.
Participants who successfully complete the requirements of the programme will receive a fully-accredited Graduate Diploma in Enterprise Development from Waterford Institute of Technology.
Places on this programme are limited. In order to qualify, applicants should be working full-time on developing their business and must possess the following:
• Innovative business idea
• Third-level qualification (minimum Diploma)
• Practical experience in a relative professional environment
• Drive and determination to success
For further information on SEEPP and how to apply, visit our website www.seepp.ie or call +353 (0)51 302953 or e-mail info@seepp.ie
* The programme is funded by the Department of Education and Science under the National Development Plan 2000 – 2006. There is no fee for participation on this programme.
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