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:: News ::
| Invitation to Tender for Mentor Panel |
2012-01-26 |
The Tipperary North County Enterprise Board is setting up a panel of Advisers/ Mentors for 2012 and 2013 and is seeking expressions of interest from registered professionals for the provision of mentor support in the following areas:-
Finance
Costing/ pricing
Business Planning / Cash flows
Routes to finance
Marketing
Branding & Design
Sales and merchandising
Marketing Strategies
Legal
Employment Contracts/ HRM / I.R.
Licence Agreements/ property
Corporate
Product Development
Intellectual Property/ Patents
Copyright etc.
E Commerce/ Website S.E.O.
Social Media
If you would like to be included on the panel, submit your business profile, Tax Clearance and Insurance Certificate along with a cover letter stating the competencies you would like to work with. A flat rate of €58 per hour will apply which is subject to a limit of €175 per session.
Deadline for receipt of submissions is 5.00 p.m Friday 10 February 2012. |
| Construction Sector EGF |
2012-01-10 |
The European Union (EU) has recently approved funding to support redundant construction workers in Ireland. This funding is provided by the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund (EGF). The purpose of the EGF is to provide training and other supports to assist redundant workers to get back to work.
Not all construction workers are eligible for support from the EGF. Only those who worked in certain sectors of the construction industry and who were made redundant between 1st July 2009 and 30th March 2010 and on whose behalf an application was made to the EGF are eligible for EGF support.
Individuals may already have participated in supports funded by the EGF such as education or training courses or apprenticeship completion programmes. Additional options are now available but it should be noted that the courses and services now being offered must be completed before Friday 8th June 2012.
Career Planning Course
Your local Vocational Educational Committee (VEC) is offering a career planning course. This is a 30 hours course that will help you explore new career options. It will also help improve your job search skills. More information on the course is available on our website www.egf.ie. If you are interested in this course please call the EGF Construction Contact Centre on their free phone number 1800303550.
EGF Training Grants
These grants pay course fees for approved courses in private education and training companies. You can get more information or apply for an EGF Training Grant by completing an online application form available at www.egf.ie/tg. If you need assistance in completing this form please call the EGF Construction Contact Centre on their free phone number 1800303550.
FÁS Courses
FÁS runs a wide range of training courses. Information on these courses is available on www.fas.ie. If you want to do one of the FÁS courses advertised on their website please contact your local FÁS office. Contact details for FÁS offices are available on www.egf.ie/fas.
Enterprise Supports
Your local City or County Enterprise Board is offering advice and grants, subject to standard eligibility criteria that prioritise the manufacturing and potentially exporting sectors, to people interested in starting a business. Contact details are on our website www.egf.ie. If you want to book a meeting to discuss what enterprise supports are available to you please call the EGF Construction Contact Centre at 1800303550 to make an appointment for you.
If you want more information about the EGF or have other queries you can either phone the EGF Construction Contact Centre on their free phone number 1800303550 or e-mail your query to info@egf.ie.
Only people who have received an official letter and have been allocated an EGF Eligibility Number will be able to participate in any of the above offers.
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| Small businesses - the solution to Ireland’s Economic Recovery - the claim at Enterprise Awards |
2011-10-05 |
A company which specialises in de-contaminating and maintaining medical aids for the Irish healthcare sector has won the County Enterprise Award for North Tipperary.
Lyncare Systems Ltd, which employs thirteen people at its Birdhill base, was set up by Gordon and Andrea Lynch in 2007. The company decontaminates, repairs and maintains a whole host of rehabilitation products, medical aids and appliances for hospitals, nursing homes and public health authorities.
Mr. Lynch was presented with the County Enterprise Award for 2011 by Matt Shortt, Chairman, of the Tipperary North County Enterprise Board at an awards ceremony at the The Thatch Cottage Restaurant in Nenagh last night (October 4th), marking ‘Enterprise Mid-West.’
Two Nenagh companies were also presented with awards at the event: the runner-up prize went to Sean Kelly and Philomena Kelly at All Security Mobile Shredding Ltd, with the ‘Best New Business’ award going to Tomas Ryan of Adsmart.
Congratulating the prize-winners at the ceremony, Rita Guinan from the Tipperary North County Enterprise Board said: “These small businesses all deserve enormous recognition and credit for their achievements in driving their enterprises forward. Small business owners demonstrate that they can successfully generate significant jobs in their local area and will form part of the solution to Ireland’s economic recovery. Indigenous industry should be recognised and supported to create jobs at local level and the combined employment figures of the 7 enterprises here this evening total 46 which is not insignificant in the current climate”.
Lyncare Systems will now go forward to represent North Tipperary at the National Enterprise Awards in November. The other four finalists were: Padraig McTiernan and Edward Steede from CT Solutions Ltd in Nenagh, Marion Murphy Cooney, a dress designer based in Newtown, George O’ Leary from Goliath Packaging Systems in Nenagh and Andrew Spillane and Paula Spillane from Savvy Kitchens in Thurles.
The Runners-Up, All Security Mobile Shredding Ltd, was set up in 2004 to provide a secure shredding service to clients. The company employs seven people and is based in Ballycommon in Nenagh. Adsmart, which won the ‘Best New Business’ category was set up in 2009 and provides marketing services to clients, mainly drawn from the retail sector. Based in Nenagh town, the company employs 10 people.
The finalists were judged on areas such as their business plans, their marketing strategy, finance, the use of technology and innovation in the business in addition to the entrepreneurial skills of the business owner. The two judges this year were Ned Twoomey, CEO of Limerick County Enterprise Board and Bernadette O’ Farrell of ACE Training.
The awards ceremony was held during ‘Enterprise Mid-West,’ which continues in North Tipperary until Friday (October 7th). |
| Enterprise Boards help small businesses ‘reach the peak’ of their potential |
2011-09-22 |
Mountaineer and entrepreneur, Pat Falvey, was in Kerry today to help the County and City Enterprise Boards launch the ‘Enterprise Mid-West’ initiative in October, helping small business owners to ‘reach the peak’ of their business potential.
For the month of October, the enterprise focus will be on Kerry, Limerick, North Tipperary and Clare as host counties of ‘Enterprise Mid-West’. Organised by the five County and City Boards from the Mid-West region, the whole month has been designated as ‘Enterprise Mid-West Month,’ with all four counties hosting events during a particular week. The initiative coincides with the 2011 European Week for SMEs
Aimed at the small business community and those thinking of setting up a business, the full programme of events kicks-off in North Tipperary on Monday, October 3rd, before moving to Clare on October 10th; Limerick City and County is the next host county from October 17th and Kerry hosts the final week, from Monday, October 24th.
Event highlights include an inspirational talk from Everest mountaineer, Pat Falvey in Clare, the Mid-West Regional Showcase event with 200 exhibitors at the Dell complex in Limerick, a women’s networking event in Limerick County, a workshop to help people move from unemployment into self-employment in Limerick City, business management advice from Dragons’ Den Star, Bobby Kerr in North Tipperary and free mentoring clinics with experienced business mentors in Killarney and Tralee.
Speaking at today’s launch, Eamon Ryan from the County and City Enterprise Boards said: “The Enterprise Boards in the Mid-West are collectively staging fourteen different events during the month of October, which is the largest ever initiative of its kind in the region, with a focus on the small business community.”
“The Mid-West is a highly entrepreneurial region and we’re encouraging anyone already in business or thinking of starting one up to get in touch with their local County or City Enterprise Board and to take part in one of the events during October. The ‘Enterprise Mid-West’ initiative is just one of many supports offered by the boards to our small business community,” he added.
The programme for ‘Enterprise Mid-West’ also includes seminars on dignity in the workplace, stress management, resilience-building and a talk from economist, Stephen Kinsella around the local economic landscape, in addition to the launch of a new tourist map. Other workshops during the month include how to generate free publicity for a business, achieving a healthy work-life balance and how to grow a business through networking.
All events during ‘Enterprise Mid-West’ are either free of charge or highly subsidised by the Mid-West County and City Enterprise Boards. Organisers have advised that prior booking is essential for all events and the full programme can be viewed at www.enterprisemidwest.com |
| October designated Mid West Business Month |
2011-09-16 |
The Tipperary North County Enterprise Board is working with County and City Enterprise Boards in Limerick City, Limerick County, Kerry and Clare to host Mid West Business Month this October. The initiative is designed to offer entrepreneurs the opportunity to participate in a wide range of events in the Mid West with each County designated a particular week. The five County and City Enterprise Boards will host their own series of events during the month and in North Tipperary the workshops and seminars will take place from Monday 3rd to Friday 7th October.
A ‘Dignity in the Workplace’ Seminar will take place in the Racket Hall Hotel, Roscrea on Monday 3rd October from 5.30pm to 8.30pm. The seminar will be delivered by Joseph Shannon, BL. The Code of Practice on Sexual Harassment and Harassment at Work which has legal effect provides that all employees should be made aware of the dignity in the workplace policy. This seminar which will cover a number of key areas such as: Definition of Workplace Bullying, Harassment, Sexual Harassment, Rights, Duties, Obligations of Employees, Complaint Procedures and Disciplinary & Grievance Procedures. Employers should note that it is not sufficient to just have a staff handbook. Training on harassment and sexual harassment must be given to staff by law and a company is at risk of legal action if this has not been provided should cases of harassment and sexual harassment come to light. A booking fee of €10 will apply.
A Stress Management Workshop will be delivered by Gearoid Harty, GPH Consulting on Tuesday 4th October in the Abbey Court Hotel, Nenagh, from 9.30am to 5.00pm. This one day workshop aims to provide participants with practical tools to manage their own time and work/life balance. This workshop will be of particular interest to owner-managers who find that one of their greatest challenges is managing themselves. A registration fee of €30 applies.
On Wednesday morning 5th October in the Food Enterprise Centre in Rearcross, Peter Madden will deliver a workshop titled “Evaluating Opportunities in the Food Sector”. This half day workshop (9.30am to 2.00pm) is an introductory programme for those considering running a food business. The areas to be covered include: Food Ideas v’s Opportunities, Marketing, Artisan Food - the way forward, Selling through Farmers Markets, An Introduction to Marketing & Business Plan, the Selling Process and Planning to start your Food Business. Booking fee €20.00.
Mr. Bobby Kerr, Entrepreneur and Businessman who presents a Sunday breakfast business show on Newstalk and is a “Dragon” on “Dragon’s Den will deliver a Business Management Seminar on Thursday October 6th from 7.30pm to 9.00pm in the Horse & Jockey Conference Centre Thurles. This event is being organised by the Tipperary North County Enterprise Board in association with Thurles Chamber and there is no attendance charge but prior booking is essential.
On Friday 7th October a “Social Media Marketing” workshop will be delivered by Evan Mangan, The Marketing Crowd in AMT Training Room, Stafford Street, Nenagh from 9.00am to 1.15pm. If you need to learn how social media sites such as Facebook and Twitter can be used to market your business this is the course for you. Case studies of best practice social media marketing will be showcased and participants will be shown how to maximise their Facebook Business page. The workshop will also cover setting up a Twitter account and the basics of Twitter usage. Participants must have a Facebook account and a booking fee of €20.00 applies.
For further information on any of the North Tipperary events contact the Tipperary North County Enterprise Board, Connolly Street, Nenagh, tel. 067 33086, e-mail info@tnceb.ie or book a place on-line at www.tnceb.ie/training.htm.
County and City Enterprise Boards are funded by the Irish Government and by the European Union. |
| Tipperary North County Enterprise Board seeks entries for the |
2011-08-31 |
The County & City National Enterprise Awards will be held in Dublin Castle in November. All County and City Enterprise Boards may put forward their County Winner to compete at the National event. The Competition was introduced in 1997 to recognise the contribution made by small firms to the Irish economy. Past winners include Crossogue Preserves, Digino Marketing, Cooleeney Cheese, Brenwood Products etc.
Competition entrants must be current clients of the CEB who employ ten (10) or less staff. Previous winners and beneficiaries of grants from other sources are not eligible to compete. The North Tipperary winner must be identified and put forward to compete nationally by the end of September and consequently a closing date for receipt of entries has been set at Friday 16th September.
Eight finalists nationally will be selected by an independent panel of adjudicators and from within the eight finalists (who will all receive €1,000 prize money), the panel of adjudicators may also select:
I. The Overall Winner (to receive €2,500)
II. The Best Export Business and (to receive €1,000)
III. The Best Start up Business (5 years or less) (to receive €1,000)
If you would like more information or would like to request an entry form for the National Enterprise Awards please contact the Tipperary North County Enterprise Board, Connolly Street, Nenagh 067-33086 or e-mail info@tnceb.ie. |
| Start & Grow Enterprise Expo 18th November 2011 |
2011-08-30 |
Get Informed. Get Inspired.
Get Involved with the Midlands Biggest Enterprise Expo Event.
Enterprise Expo set to provide Springboard for Growth.
For entrepreneurs, innovators and business people, the Start and Grow Enterprise Expo, launched today (19/08/11) is not to be missed. Taking place on Friday, 18th November in the Tullamore Court Hotel, Tullamore, this all day event provides a one-stop-shop for entrepreneurs and businesses to start and grow.
With an exciting line-up of leading entrepreneurs and exhibitors, one-to-one mentoring opportunities, an Ideas Zone, networking and an abundance of information on enterprise, it`s the perfect opportunity to get informed and get inspired to start and grow a business more profitably. For potential entrepreneurs and existing companies looking to achieve performance excellence, there will be opportunities to learn from industry leaders and to review alternative and pioneering ways of developing a business.
The Start & Grow Enterprise Expo – which is free to attend – comprises
- Keynote address by serial entrepreneur Denis O’Brien
- Seminars running throughout the day, focusing on 3 key areas
• Start Seminar: All a person needs to know from finding the right idea to the ins and outs of starting a company
• Grow Seminar: An opportunity to hear how to successfully navigate change to ensure survival and prosperity in the current economic climate
• Market Opportunities Seminar: An invaluable resource for anyone seeking to develop new markets
- An Ideas Zone
To help entrepreneurs identify or evaluate new ideas and bring them from dream to commercial reality
- Mentoring
Free (pre-booked) 1-to-1 business mentoring which will give attendees the chance to ask an expert, in private, specific questions relating to their existing or future business
- An Enterprise Exhibition
An opportunity to meet 35 public & private organisations that support entrepreneurs to start or grow a business
An initiative of the Offaly County Enterprise Board, Enterprise Ireland, Tullamore Chamber, Offaly Local Development Company and Offaly County Council, the Start and Grow Enterprise Expo is an event for every diary.
To register for the event, book a mentor and all the latest news, visit www.startandgrow.ie |
| Marketing Executive Position under the Internship Programme |
2011-07-05 |
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The Tipperary North CEB is recruiting a person to work with the North Tipperary Food Works - a community owned development of Food Units and a time share developmental kitchen. The position is available under the National Internship Scheme – see www.jobbridge.ie. The role involves developing and implementing an integrated marketing campaign to maximise usage of the centre and secure tenants for the workspace. This is a full time position for 9 months and will be based in the Food Centre, Rearcross, Co. Tipperary. Candidates should have a full driving license and must be eligible for National Internship Scheme. Curriculum Vitae by e-mail only to info@tnceb.ie by not later that 4.30pm on 12 August 2011. |
| National Women`s Enterprise Day 16th & 17th November 2011 |
2011-07-04 |
Those of you that attended the 2010 National Women’s Enterprise Day (NWED 2010) in Limerick have been looking forward to the NWED 2011 event. Those who missed out on the Limerick event will not want to miss out this year.
The 2011 event will be bigger and more enjoyable, and also better value for money. It will be a 1 ½ day conference packed full of information, motivation, mentoring and networking and is a MUST for every woman in business in Ireland.
Date: 16th and 17th November 2011
Venue: The Heritage Hotel, Portlaoise, Co. Laois
Please put these dates in your diary as you do not want to miss this event. A full brochure will be available soon and will be emailed to you with details of how to register for this event.
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| Getting Irish Business on Line |
2011-06-09 |
No doubt you have heard and seen the ads on radio and in the newspapers recently telling you aboug the Getting Business Online initiative.
We`re taking the time, hassle and cost out of getting a website so that you can get on with running your business.
Here`s what you`ll get:
* Free easy to update website;
* Free .ie .eu or .com domain for first year;
* Ongoing tips and education
* AdWords €100 trial with expert phone support
For further details on this initiative check out www.gettingbusinessonline.ie
If you are interested in attending a short Getting Irish Business Online training workshop at a cost of just €25.00 register here www.tnceb.ie/training/
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| Mid West Pop Up Bank, Thomond Park Stadium, 31st May 2011 |
2011-05-18 |
O’Donovan Caulfield Lavin, Chartered Accountants, in conjunction with Thomond Park Stadium, will host the Region’s first ‘Pop Up Bank’ on the 31st of May 2011 from 11.00am to 4.00pm.
The idea is a simple one - businesses in the Midwest who are struggling to find credit or capital for a viable business or start-up idea are encouraged to come to the Pop Up Bank and meet the lending institutions , State support agencies and seed capital investors to see what sources of finance and related supports may be available to them and how to access these. The Pop Up Bank will suit those with an idea who want to get started, those who need capital to keep going or businesses hoping to expand.
The list of participants includes AIB, Bank of Ireland, Ulster Bank, KBC Bank, the City & County Enterprise Boards of the Midwest Region (Limerick, Clare, Tipperary North & Kerry), Enterprise Ireland, Limerick Institute of Technology (Limerick Enterprise Acceleration Platform and Franchise Acceleration Start-up Training Programmes) the Paul Partnership, First Step, HALO Partnership (Cork BIC), the Limerick, Ennis & Shannon Chambers of Commerce, Shannon Development, the Revenue Commissioners and others.
Ireland’s first Pop Up Bank was held in Croke Park by RTE’s The Business which saw banks and credit unions, state agencies and venture capitalists, come together for one day to meet with over 250 small businesses looking for credit or capital. The event was non-profit making with Croke Park donating the facilities for free.
ODCL is to lead a similar event in the Midwest and Thomond Park Stadium will provide the free venue.
Commented Jim O’Donovan, Partner, ODCL, “There is a real issue with the lack of credit for business and we decided to take up the mantle and roll out the Pop Up Bank in the Mid West. We wanted to do something positive and constructive to facilitate the availability of credit and investment for businesses in the Region.”
RTE is thrilled and very encouraged about the roll out of a Pop Up Bank to the Midwest. Said George Lee of The Business, “It`s great that the Midwest has decided to run with a Pop Up Bank, we got a great response in Dublin, it’s amazing what can happen when money and ideas come together.”
Commented Gerry Reeves, Regional Manager, Bank of Ireland “When ODCL approached us, we were delighted to have the opportunity to say once again that we are open for business. SME’s are the life blood of the Irish economy and while the climate for credit is certainly challenging right now, we will continue to provide support to small businesses.”
All of the exhibitors will be looking for people to pitch their ideas and requirements to them. While investment is not guaranteed and business ideas must be viable, this is an opportunity for businesses to meet with prospective lenders and investors to discuss their ideas.
Unlike multinational companies who tend to have their own resources and access to external funds, the SME requires funding from Irish credit and lending institutions and many of these businesses have been starved of capital in recent times.
The Mid West Pop Up Bank at Thomond Park Stadium will provide a one stop shop in a receptive environment for those already in or about to get into business to discuss their projects and see what options are available to them for suitable credit or capital.
Attendance at the Pop Up Bank is free but organisers are asking businesses to register in advance by contacting ODCL on 061 411000 or by email at popupbank@odcl.ie. |
| SOUTH EAST REGION FOOD EVENT AND PRODUCT SHOWCASE |
2011-05-18 |
Food producers in the South East, covering Carlow, Kilkenny, Wexford, Waterford and Tipperary, will have a unique opportunity to showcase their products to local retail and foodservice buyers, and larger food companies at a regional food event at the Lyrath Estate Hotel on Monday evening June 20th.
The event is a joint agency initiative led by Bord Bia and the Department of Agriculture, Marine and Food, and involving County Enterprise Boards, Enterprise Ireland, LEADER groups and Teagasc.
The objective of this regional food event is to stimulate awareness and generate demand for local food, thereby increasing the potential market size for local food producers and generating additional sales.
The event, which will commence with registration at 5.30pm, and concludes when the showcase closes at 9pm, will provide an opportunity to share the market research on the regional potential for local food manufacturers (commissioned by Bord Bia specifically for the event) and will look at the growth potential that exists for food manufacturers in the region. Further details of the programme for the evening will issue at a later date.
The primary focus of the event will be the regional product showcase, at which you will have the opportunity to meet with, on an informal basis, Purchasing managers from the retail sector and Foodservice Buyers. In addition larger food companies will also be invited in their capacity as procurers of food ingredients with the potential to source such ingredients locally.
As space for exhibitors will be limited, it may therefore not be possible to facilitate every producer at the product showcase. in making the final selection of companies for the showcase, factors to be taken into account will include: need to achieve a broad range of products, a geographical spread across the 5 counties, as well as a mix of company types/sizes to reflect the buyers expectations.
For further information and a booking form please contact jimmy.corr@bordbia.ie by Friday 20th May at the latest. |
| Taoiseach Enda Kenny launches national programme to get Irish Business On-line |
2011-05-09 |
On Monday 9th May An Taoiseach, Enda Kenny, T.D. launched a
national campaign to get Irish businesses online and make the most of the economic
opportunity of the Internet.
Getting Irish Business Online (www.gettingbusinessonline.ie) is a partnership between
Google, Blacknight Internet Solutions, An Post and the County & City Enterprise Boards
and is targeting the 40% of Irish SMEs including sole traders that do not have a website
or an online presence. The campaign is calling on all businesses that do not have a
website to log on to www.gettingbusinessonline.ie where they can create their business
website for free.
The launch of the campaign was also attended by the Minister for Enterprise, Jobs and
Innovation Richard Bruton T.D. and Minister of State for Small Business, John Perry
T.D.
Speaking at the launch An Taoiseach Enda Kenny T.D., said, "Irish businesses need
to be establishing themselves on-line now to get a foothold in the on-line market.
In the challenging economic times that we are working to overcome, having an online
presence would help Irish businesses survive and keep people in jobs. For most
businesses, having a presence online is no longer an optional extra: it’s an essential part
of business in the twenty-first century.
The presence of Google and other technology companies here forming a digital services
hub is a very real asset to the Irish economy. This new innovation will help get more Irish
small business online - so they can sell their goods and services from Ballina to Beijing."
Google research shows that almost 60% of Irish commercial SMEs do not have an entry
in an online directory and that 40% do not have a website. This is despite the millions
of euros being spent by Irish consumers shopping online every year. Over 75% of Irish
customers use the Internet as their primary tool for researching new companies and
products, and 68% believe that search engines help to find relevant sellers of products.
But, with only 21% of Irish businesses e-commerce enabled, Ireland is effectively losing
revenues to UK and US online businesses.
Google’s research also found that common barriers to setting up online are a lack of
skills, perceived high costs and time restrictions. Many businesses surveyed think that
the average cost to set up a website is 1,000 euro whereas the campaign launched
today will provide a website for free and it will be quick to set up and easy to use. The
campaign will also provide online training materials at www.gettingbusinessonline.ie and
further training via seminars held by the County & City Enterprise Boards.
Ronan Harris, Director of Online Sales, Google said: “There is a huge opportunity for
Irish businesses which they are failing to grasp. An online presence gives the potential
to increase sales and revenues not just locally but internationally and helps to build
stronger, more sustainable businesses that will ultimately benefit local, regional and the
national economies.
Irish consumers spend almost 20 hours per week online and with millions of people in
Ireland shopping online there is a significant marketplace for Irish SMEs to exploit. At
the moment a large part of that spend is going overseas and we need to accelerate the
number of Irish businesses online. Today we are hopefully seeing the start of a national
movement which will gather momentum and bring every sole trader, micro enterprise
and SME online.”
The Getting Irish Business Online campaign will support businesses and sole traders
to build a free website in under 30 minutes which is the first step to building an online
business. Blacknight Solutions will provide participants with a free website, and hosting
with a .ie, .eu or .com domain name which is free for one year from the set-up of their
website. Google will also provide a trial of online advertising with a coupon worth €100.
The County & City Enterprise Boards will run nationwide seminars giving registered
businesses additional support in setting up a website and learning how to attract new
custom online.
An Post is supporting integration of a postage calculator into a full e-commerce
solution, launching June 1st and it will provide promotional offers, support and advice
to businesses who sell online and have developed their website through Getting Irish
Business Online.
Businesses interested in getting a website set up should go to the Getting Irish Business
Online campaign website www.gettingbusinessonline.ie to set up their website with a
straightforward step by step process. Once established their web address can be found
using Google’s search engine and they can also learn how to further enhance their
business website to attract new customers online.
Liam Walsh of AAC Services, one of the first companies to set up his business online via
the Getting Irish Business Online tool said, “I always thought it would be too expensive
and time consuming to set up a website so I couldn’t believe how quick and easy it was
to set up. Having an online presence means that if someone searches for plumbing or
heating services my business can now be found online which is great.” |
| Student Enterprise Award Winners. |
2011-03-23 |
The Ursuline Secondary School and Colaiste Mhuire Co-Ed, Thurles were the Senior and Junior category winners of the Student Enterprise Awards County Competition with took place on Wednesday last 9th March at the Abbey Court Hotel, Nenagh. Both schools will now represent North Tipperary at the National Final which takes place on 14th April at Croke Park.
This year 131 students from 7 second level schools competed in the County competition which carried a prize fund of almost €3,000. The competition which is run nationwide by the County & City Enterprise Boards began in 2002 and is designed to increase enterprise awareness in the education system and to inculcate an entrepreneurial spirit among students and almost 15,000 students participated in last year’s competition. The County competition which is run by the Tipperary North County Enterprise Board took place in the Abbey Court Hotel, Nenagh on Wednesday last and attracted a large attendance of parents, teachers, business and agency representatives who visited the 36 trade stands/displays and listened to power point presentations made by 3 entries from each of the 7 schools competing in the senior category.
External adjudicators are brought in by the Enterprise Board to judge the entries which are marked against a national criteria to include business report, product sample, trade stand and interview. This year’s adjudicators were Ms. Carmel Moloney, Enterprise Ireland, Shannon and Mr. Pat Donnelly, Thurles Marketing Group. In additional to the 1st prize, runner up and 3rd place in each category the adjudicators may award special prizes to projects that excel in particular areas i.e. ‘Most Innovative Product’, ‘Best Stand’ and ‘Best Business Report and Presentation’. All entries outside of the award winners receive a Merit Award in recognition of the effort made in getting to the County Final.
The 2011 prize winners were:
Junior Category:
Winner: ‘Paul’s Christmas Logs’ by Paul Murphy, Colaiste Mhuire Co-Ed, Thurles who was awarded a cheque for €300, glass trophy and certificate.
Runner Up: ‘The Sweet Taste’ by Emmaneul Taccuma, Michael Beaton, Aaron Hassett, Colaiste Mhuire Co-Ed, Thurles who were awarded a cheque for €200, glass trophy and certificate.
Third Place: ‘Tadgh Calendars’ by Tadgh Murphy, Colaiste Mhuire Co-Ed, Thurles who was awarded a cheque for €100, glass trophy and certificate.
Senior Category:
Winner: “Star Games” promoted by Aine Blake, Rachel Williams, Sarah Kelly, Orla Gleeson and Aoife McGrath from the Ursuline Secondary School, Thurles who were awarded a cheque for €500, glass trophy and certificate.
Runner Up: “www.TYonline.com” promoted by Stephanie Fleming, Lucy Blake, Ellen Lanigan, Judy Gernon and Eimear O’Meara from The Presentation Secondary School, Thurles who were awarded a cheque for €300, glass trophy and certificate.
Third Place: “Tasty Tipp Recipes” promoted by Yvonne Mullins, Eimear Grace, Edel Ryan and Hazel Costigan from The Presentation Secondary School, Thurles who were awarded a cheque for €100, glass trophy and certificate.
Special Category Awards:
“Innovation”: “Clever Solutions” promoted Karl Stakelum, Joe Nyland, Brian Kennedy, Conor Burke, Brendan Russell, Jacque Dowling and Yvonne Meehan from Our Lady’s Secondary School, Templemore who were awarded a cheque for €60, glass trophy and certificate.
“Best Stand”: “Sweet Dreams” promoted by Rosie Bull and Lorna Flynn from Nenagh Vocational School who were awarded a cheque for €60 and certificate.
“Best Business Report and Presentation”: “Juice It Up!” promoted by David Dunne and
T. J. Heffernan who were awarded a cheque for €60 and certificate.
Prizes were presented by Rita Guinan, C.E.O. on behalf of the Tipperary North County Enterprise Board who stated that “this competition is now a key event in the County Enterprise Board calendar. The competition has been running for more than 10 years and is open to all second level schools in North Tipperary and this year we are delighted to see seven local schools involved”. Other speakers at the prize giving ceremony included Carmel Moloney, Enterprise Ireland and Pat Donnelly from Thurles Marketing Group who each commented on the standard of entry and explained the rationale for this year’s special prizes. The event was co-ordinated by Margaret O’Farrell.
County and City Enterprise Boards are funded by the Irish Government and by the European Union.
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| Marketing Executive - North Tipperary Food Works |
2011-03-03 |
The Tipperary North CEB is recruiting a graduate to work with the North Tipperary Food Works - a community owned development of Food Units and a time share developmental kitchen. The position is available under the FAS Work Placement Programme (WPP1 graduates). The role involves developing and implementing an integrated marketing campaign to maximise usage of the centre and secure tenants for the workspace.
This is a full time position for 9 months and will be based at the TNCEB offices in Nenagh or Rearcross as required. Candidates should have a full driving license and must be eligible for FAS WPP1 Scheme. Curriculum Vitae by e-mail only to info@tnceb.ie by not later that 4.30pm on 18 March 2011. |
| DELL European Globalisation Fund - Closing Date for New Applications |
2011-02-16 |
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The DELL EGF fund closes on 28th June 2011. The County & City Enterprise Boards are now making a final call to eligible persons interested in starting their own business to apply for grants. The closing date for the submission of applications to the Enterprise Board is 31st March 2011. Persons already approved for grant aid under the fund must submit all claims to the Board by 27th May at the latest. Any claims made after that date may not be paid. |
| DELL EGF fund closing on 28th June 2011 |
2011-02-16 |
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The DELL EGF fund closes on 28th June 2011. TNCEB is making a final call for to eligible persons interested in starting their own business to apply for grants. The closing date for the submission of applications to the Enterprise Board is 31st March 2011. Persons already approved for grant aid under the fund must submit all claims to the Board by 27th May at the latest. Any claims made after that date may not be paid. |
| 50 Reasons for Buyers to “Look Up” |
2011-01-21 |
Fifty craftspeople and artists are being supported by their local Enterprise Board at next week’s Showcase event in the RDS.
Artists, craftspeople and designers from eighteen County and City Enterprise Board areas are meeting international buyers at the balcony area at Showcase this year, representing a 45% increase over the 2010 figures.
The Creative Expo, which is organised by the Crafts Council of Ireland, is seen by industry experts as one of the most important trade events for Ireland’s craft sector and runs from Sunday, January 23rd to Wednesday, January 26th.
Many of the Enterprise Board-supported craftspeople along the balcony area of the Main Hall are first-time exhibitors and are expected to attract considerable attention from the 5,500 buyers in attendance.
Speaking in the run-up to Sunday’s official opening, Christine Charlton from the County and City Enterprise Boards said: “The balcony area of Showcase has a truly diverse range of products this year, ranging from slate products to flower jewellery to Irish language greeting cards to 3D postcards. We’re encouraging all visitors to Showcase to simply “look up” to discover new and unique products from fifty craftspeople along the balcony area.”
To help craftspeople make the most of the selling opportunity, the County and City Enterprise Boards are publishing a dedicated brochure for Showcase buyers, which will be distributed free of charge to visitors. The Enterprise Boards are also subsidising the costs of trade stands and many craftspeople will receive one-to-one coaching from experienced mentors.
Charlton added: “Many of the Enterprise Board-supported craftspeople will make valuable sales and contacts over the four days and it’s a crucial platform for them, helping to generate sales both nationally and internationally.”
In all, over 350 craftspeople will be taking part in Showcase, including fifty craftspeople supported by the Enterprise Boards on the balcony area. Buyers from seventeen countries are expected to attend and the event is promoted internationally by Enterprise Ireland. Further details are available by visiting www.showcaseireland.com |
| Businesswomen to Help Narrow Gender Gap in Irish Enterprise |
2010-11-04 |
Men still “three times more likely” than women to set up a business in Ireland
Five female entrepreneurs have been recruited by the organisers of National Women’s Enterprise Day on November 19th, to help boost the number of women setting up their own businesses in Ireland.
The stories of the home-grown entrepreneurs, who all run their own established businesses in different parts of the country, will be showcased in front of 300 delegates at a major conference in Limerick that day, to inspire confidence in other women and help bridge the gender divide.
Although the County and City Enterprise Boards, including the Tipperary North County Enterprise Board, have supported nearly 13,500* female entrepreneurs in 2009, 1000 more than in 2008, men are still almost three times more likely than women to set up their own business in Ireland.
To help address this imbalance, Donna Daly Blyth from Donna’s Dance Studio in Cork, Alison Boardman from Unique Voice Language Institute in Kerry, Ann Marie Durkin from Shasta in Longford, Alison Ritchie from Polar Ice in Offaly and Jennifer Ryan from Pónaire Roastery in Limerick have been invited by the County and City Enterprise Boards to share their experiences, challenges and advice with other women on November 19th.
“Research from the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor shows that women who know an entrepreneur are five times more likely to become an entrepreneur themselves,” said Rita Guinan, CEO, of the Tipperary North County Enterprise Board. “Through profiling the success stories of female entrepreneurs in Ireland on National Women’s Enterprise Day, we hope to encourage more women to seek out new business opportunities by setting up their own business.”
Co-funded by the European Social Fund with support from the Department of Community, Equality and Gaeltacht Affairs through the Equality for Women Measure, the aim of National Women’s Enterprise Day is to give national recognition to the role of female entrepreneurship.
The founder of the UK High Street Chain Coffee Republic, Sahar Hashemi, is one of the keynote speakers, along with local entrepreneur and hotelier, Mary Fitzgerald and Ivan Yates, broadcaster and founder of Celtic Bookmakers. The Minister of State for Equality, Integration and Human Rights, Ms Mary White, T.D. has been invited to officially open the conference, which takes place at the Strand Hotel in Limerick.
Tickets cost €100 each and are available to buy through www.nwed.ie. The first ten delegates from North Tipperary can recoup their fee from the Tipperary North County Enterprise Board, Connolly Street, Nenagh tel. 067-33086. The conference also includes an exhibition of enterprise support agencies, one-to-one mentoring clinics and networking sessions.
County and City Enterprise Boards are funded by the Irish Government and co-funded by the European Union under the EU Structural Funds 2007-2013. |
| Local Enterprise Board Celebrates ‘National Women’s Enterprise Day’ |
2010-11-01 |
Friday, November 19th is National Women’s Enterprise Day and the County and City Enterprise Boards, including the Tipperary North County Enterprise Board, are hosting a major conference, networking and enterprise support exhibition in Limerick that day to highlight the contribution of women in business across Ireland.
Organisers are expecting 300 female entrepreneurs to attend, including representatives from several Tipperary-based businesses. The founder of the UK High Street Chain Coffee Republic, Sahar Hashemi, is one of the keynote speakers at the Strand Hotel on the Ennis Road on the 19th, along with local entrepreneur and hotelier, Mary Fitzgerald and Ivan Yates, broadcaster and founder of Celtic Bookmakers.
The Minister of State for Equality, Integration and Human Rights, Ms Mary White, T.D. has been invited to officially open the conference and the case-studies of five home-grown female entrepreneurs will also be showcased, along with an exhibition of enterprise support agencies, one-to-one mentoring clinics and networking sessions.
Speaking ahead of the event, the C.E.O. of Tipperary North County Enterprise Board, Rita Guinan, said: “On National Women’s Enterprise Day, female entrepreneurs will access information, advice and mentoring from experienced business people, the County and City Enterprise Boards and other state support agencies. At a local level, we support hundreds of female entrepreneurs every year who are already in business or thinking of starting one up, so we’re encouraging as many local entrepreneurs as possible to make the trip to Limerick on November 19th.”
Co-funded by the European Social Fund with support from the Department of Community, Equality and Gaeltacht Affairs through the Equality for Women Measure, the aim of National Women’s Enterprise Day is to give national recognition to the role of female entrepreneurship.
Tickets for the National Women’s Enterprise Day Conference at the Strand Hotel on the Ennis Road in Limerick cost €100 and are available to buy through www.nwed.ie. The fee includes an evening reception and networking event on Thursday, November 18th, in addition to lunch, one-to-one mentoring and admission to the conference on Friday, November 19th. Updates on the National Women’s Enterprise Day are also available from the NWED Facebook page and from Twitter updates. |
| Enterprise Board to sponsor the first 10 women from North Tipperary to book places at NWED |
2010-10-14 |
The National Women`s Enterprise Day aims to inspire, activate and assist women across Ireland in running their own business. The event takes place on Friday 19th November 2010 at the Strand Hotel in Limerick. The Conference is preceded by a networking event on Thursday evening 18th November. National Women’s Enterprise Day will feature a conference, exhibition, mentor clinics and networking opportunities.
This event offers support to women already in business and those thinking of starting out. Speakers at National Women’s Enterprise Day include Sahar Hashemi, founder of Coffee Republic, Ivan Yates, the Newstalk Breakfast Show and Celtic Bookmakers, Mary FitzGerald, Proprietor of the Woodlands House Hotel & Spa along with a panel of female entrepreneurs drawn from the client base of the County & City Enterprise Boards.
If you would like to attend why now go on to www.nwed.ie to book your place. The first ten delegates from North Tipperary can recoup their fee from the Tipperary North County Enterprise Board. If you are unemployed and would like to attend please contact Ms. Geraldine Manning, Business Development Officer at the Board’s office in Connolly Street, Nenagh tel. 067-33086 who will look after your booking. County and City Enterprise Boards are funded by the Irish Government and co-funded by the European Union under the EU Structural Funds 2007-2013. |
| Start and Grown Enterprise Expo Friday 8th October - Portlaoise |
2010-09-28 |
The Start and Grow Enterprise Expo will take place in the Heritage Hotel, Portlaoise on Friday 8th October 2010.
For people starting or growing a business, the Expo will provide easy access to enterprise supports at the Heritage Hotel, Portlaoise, on October 8th. As well as exhibitors from organisations which support enterprise, those attending will have a chance to hear from key experts during the day, view demonstrations of interest and avail of individual mentoring sessions.
The Expo is intended to provide the perfect opportunity to find all the information, inspiration and motivation to start, grow and profit from a business. The Start and Grown Enterprise Expo will include one-to-one mentoring sessions. These sessions can be pre-booked and will give attendees the chance to ask an expert specific questions relating to their existing or future business.
The exhibition will include a host of enterprise support agencies who will be available to inform people about support, funding and opportunities available to them through the agencies.
An initiative of the Laois County Enterprise Board, Enterprise Ireland, Laois Chamber, Laois Partnership Company and Laois County Council, the Start and Grow Enterprise Expo is an event for every diary.
Start and Grow Enterprise Expo,
Heritage Hotel,
Portlaoise,
Co. Laois
Friday 8th October 2010
Contact Information:
The Laois County Enterprise Board Limited
Portlaoise Enterprise Centre, Clonminam Business Park, Portlaoise, Co Laois
Tel: 057 866 1800
www.laoisenterprise.com
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| The Tipperary North County Enterprise Board invites entries for the 2010 National Enterprise Awards |
2010-08-30 |
The County & City National Enterprise Awards will be held in Dublin Castle in November with the overall winner announced at a black-tie gala dinner. All County and City Enterprise Boards may put forward their County Winner to compete at the National event. The Competition was introduced in 1997 to recognise the contribution made by small firms to the Irish economy. Past winners include Crossogue Preserves, Digino Marketing, Cooleeney Cheese, Brenwood Products etc.
Competition entrants must be current clients of the CEB who employ ten (10) or less staff and who have not received grants from other sources. Businesses who have received Measure 2 support only from the CEB will not be eligible to enter and previous County winners cannot be re-nominated.
At National level the competition carries a prize fund of €23,000 - the Winner will receive €5,000, the new Start Up category winner €3,000, the Export Business Award €3,000 and each of the 8 finalists, who will be selected from a potential pool of 30 County winners, will receive €1,500. Start–up businesses have been defined by the organisers as those businesses in operation for three years or less.
If you would like more information or would like to request an entry form for the National Enterprise Awards please contact the Tipperary North County Enterprise Board, Connolly Street, Nenagh 067-33086 or e-mail info@tnceb.ie. Details of the North Tipperary County winner must be furnished to the National Competition organisers by the end of September and therefore the closing date for receipt of entries is Friday 17th September. |
| Emerging Markets Exporter Award 2010 |
2010-08-20 |
The Irish Exporters Association are now inviting applications for the Emerging Markets Exporter Award 2010 which is sponsored by the County and City Enterprise Boards. Application forms are available on line, please visit www.irishexporters.ie. Each applicant will receive two tickets to attend the Awards Gala Dinner in Dublin in November.
Closing date for entries is the 29th of October. If you have any queries, please do not hesitate to contact:
Gillian Ryan, Communications & Events Manager, Irish Exporters Association, 28 Merrion Square, Dublin 2
Direct: 353 1 642 4171; Tel. 353 1 661 2182; Fax. 353 1 661 2315
Email. gillianRyan@irishexporters.org
Web. www.irishexporters.ie
The IEA represents the needs of export industry ensuring that the necessary conditions are created and the necessary support is provided to assist companies to maximize their export sales. The IEA draws its membership from every exporting sector, ensuring that the interests of all industries are represented and promoted at the highest level.
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| Dairy Products Manufacturing Programme for Tipperary |
2010-08-16 |
A Dairy Products Manufacturing programme has been announced for Tipperary. This programme will be of interest to individuals or farmers who wish to start their own food business with a view to generating additional income. It will provide participants with the skills and knowledge necessary to manufacture cheese, yoghurt and butter. This is a unique opportunity for individuals to learn the basic skills to manufacture dairy products.
The Dairy Products Manufacturing programme comprises a series of 3 training modules (one every day for the duration of the programme). It will be held in Tipperary’s newest high spec food facility “North Tipperary Food Works” located in Rearcross Co. Tipperary – from the 26 - 28 of October 2010. The course costs €200 and is delivered by Eddie O’Neill Artisan Food Specialist with Teagasc.
To get further information on this programme please contact the Rural Food Skillnet, 9 Orchard Court, Leitrim Village, Co. Leitrim. Enquiries to Orla Casey 086 2606304.
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| Start Your Own Food Business |
2010-07-15 |
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A Start Your Own Food Business programme has been announced for Tipperary. This programme will be of interest to individuals who wish to start their own food business with a view to generating additional income. Please contact the Board for more information at 067-33086 or info@tnceb.ie |
| CEBs can create 11,000 jobs nationwide in 3 years |
2010-07-06 |
“CEBs under-utilised - significant potential for major contribution to development of indigenous businesses”
– Rita Guinan, CEO of Tipperary North County Enterprise Board
The County & City Enterprise Boards (CEBs), the nationwide business support network for the small and micro business sector, believes that it is an under-utilised resource with significant potential to make a major contribution to the development of an Irish indigenous business sector. In a new strategy document, “Meeting the Challenge – Driving Entrepreneurship and Small Business Development in Ireland” that has been presented to the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation, the CEBs outline how they can create more than 11,000 new jobs over the next three years and over 18,000 over the five years.
Rita Guinan, CEO of Tipperary North County Enterprise Board said, “This strategy to drive entrepreneurship in Ireland’s micro enterprises sets out clear actions and key outputs over the next 5 years. Micro enterprises make up the vast majority of local businesses in Ireland accounting for over 90% all businesses in the country and are the key contributors to local economic development. More importantly they are the vital source for employment creation both now and over the coming years. We can deliver over 50 jobs per annum in North Tipperary over the next 5 years and help to sustain a further 100,000 jobs across the country in existing businesses but only if we can get the necessary resources. These outputs can only be achieved if there is a re-instatement of the modest €34 million per annum budget( i.e. 2.3% of the Department budget), shared across the 35 CEBs, plus a modest increase of 10% per annum in this budget over the next 5 years. We believe the CEB Network is the most cost effective in creating productive jobs in our economy at an average cost per job of €5,500. Currently we have a large number of projects waiting for additional funding. These are jobs that can be created immediately and that will pay for themselves within three years in benefits foregone and taxes paid.”
Rita Guinan added, “The key objectives of the strategy are the fostering of a spirit of enterprise at all levels in society, supporting new businesses and enhancing and sustaining existing businesses. The CEBs have the benefit of local knowledge to get to the 4,500 intending entrepreneurs that emerge each year. The plan anticipates direct financial support to over 500 start-ups and 450 expanding businesses per annum and these will have the potential to create over 3,625 new jobs per annum. In addition to this, over 4,000 existing businesses per annum and 3,500 start-up businesses will be assisted by way of one-to-one business advisory sessions, mentoring, and management development training on annual basis which in turn will sustain 20,000 existing jobs in local businesses per annum through these supports.
The plan also envisages over 12,000 second level students participating on the County & City Enterprise Boards Student Enterprise Awards as well as a range of other pro-entrepreneurship activities.”
The strategic aims set out in the strategy are:
The creation of employment opportunities throughout the country by assisting in the establishment of new businesses and the development and sustainability of existing businesses
To increase the culture and level of entrepreneurship in Ireland so that the culture is supportive of entrepreneurship through maximising the number of new start-up businesses
To support small businesses increasing their competitiveness, innovativeness, export-orientation, management capabilities and sustainability
The provision of a comprehensive information and advice service throughout the country for anyone wishing or proposing to establish or expand a new or existing business
To increase the pool of indigenous business at local level in particular the number of growth-oriented businesses and where appropriate assist in development and transfer of high potential clients to Enterprise Ireland. |
| Presentation of MDP Certificates |
2010-06-16 |
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Participants receiving their certificates following completion of a Waterford Institute of Technology certified Management Development Programme which was organised by the Tipperary North County Enterprise Board photographed left to right front: Eleanor Forrest (TNCEB), Louisa Condon, John Darmody, Brian Maher, Tom Ryan Casey, Veronica Molloy, Mary O’Halloran, Niamh Carr, back LtoR: Declan O’Meara, James Coakley, Pat Fogarty, Mark O’Kane, Margot Cullen, William Smyth, Declan Carr, Frank Kelly, Carina Pierse, Mary Fenton (WIT) and Blaise Brosnan (MRI – tutor). |
| Opportunity for Craft and Artisan Food Firms to exhibit at the Celtic Market Place Trade Show |
2010-06-11 |
The Celtic Market Place Trade Show will take place in Lombard, Chicago from September 19th - 21st 2010. The Show which attracts up to 400 retail/buyers is organised by the North American Celtic Trade Association (NACTA). The Tipperary North County Enterprise Board is inviting potential exhibitors to attend an information event on Monday 21 June 2010 at the Board’s training centre in Connolly Street, Nenagh from 3.30pm to 5.30pm. At the event information will be provided on the grant scheme available from the Board for exhibitors and the logistics involved in attending the event will be discussed.
The Board commissioned Fruition Consultancy to undertake research into the viability of bringing a number of North Tipperary Craft and Artisan Food Producers to the US in 2010 and as a result the Board has set aside a budget to support at least five companies to participate at the Celtic Market Place Trade Show in Illinois. Contact has already been made with an Bord Bia and the Board will engage with their US office to maximise the opportunity for those attending. The Crafts Council of Ireland (C.C.O.I.) have also been invited to get involved.
If you are interested in attending please revert to the Tipperary North County Enterprise Board, Connolly Street, Nenagh at 067-33086 or e-mail at info@tnceb.ie. County and City Enterprise Boards are funded by the Irish Government and co-funded by the European Union under the EU Structural Funds 2007-2013. |
| North Tipperary Student Enterprise Awards County Final |
2010-02-23 |
The winners of the 2009/2010 Student Enterprise Awards promoted by the Tipperary North County Enterprise Board were announced at the County Final which took place on Tuesday 23 March at the Abbey Court Hotel, Nenagh.
Gaelcholaiste na Siuire, Thurles scooped the top prize in both the Senior and Intermediate Categories with Aindrui O’Fearuil’s business ‘Stress-busters Inc’ winning the Senior Category and ‘Float Biscuits’ promoted by Brima Jordan, Tracey Shorley, Roisin Dooley and Samantha Wright winning the Intermediate prize. The Runner up in the Senior Category was ‘Breakfast at Tiffanys’, promoted by Etaoin O’Meara, Emma-Jane Purcell, Bernie Bergin, Eimear Butler, Fiona Cantwell and Kate Kerrane, from the Presentation Secondary School, Thurles. The Third Prize went to ‘Be Dazzled’, promoted by Melissa Morris, Gillian Dunne, Fiona Kiely, Aislinn Healy, Laura Sheridan and Deirdre Ryan from the Presentation Secondary School, Thurles while the Special Category Award for the ‘Most Innovative Product’, went to ‘Lil Rascals Books’, promoted by Collette Carey, Aimee O’Connell, Roisin O’Brien, Katie Grace and Charlotte Buckley from St. Mary’s Secondary School, Nenagh.
109 students from 5 local schools exhibited 28 businesses at this year’s final. The awards ceremony concluded with a product exhibition, student interview and in the case of senior students a PowerPoint presentation. This year’s entries were very diverse encompassing all sectors such as manufacturing, service, catering, IT and food production.
The winning students were presented with cash prizes and certificates while the winning schools received specially commissioned glass awards as a memento of the occasion. Prizes were presented by Rita Guinan, C.E.O. on behalf of the Tipperary North County Enterprise Board. In recognition of the key role the competition plays in promoting an enterprise culture in the county, the Tipperary North County Enterprise Board had made available a generous prize fund of €2,350 along with Awards and framed Certificates.
Now a key event on the County Enterprise Board calendar, this competition has been running for more than 10 years and is open to all second level schools in North Tipperary. The initiative is promoted countrywide by the 35 County & City Enterprise Boards and is designed to offer students the opportunity to take a business from the idea stage, through market research, production, selling, record keeping, management and finally writing a comprehensive report on their activities. Students are required to mount an exhibition/trade stand and participate in a short interview. Entries are marked against strict National criterion, which involves business performance, report assessment, setting up a trade stand / exhibit and participating in an interview. The winning entries across the two categories of Intermediate (second & third years) and Senior (transition year, fifth years etc.) will now advance to represent North Tipperary at the National Final to be held in the Croke Park on 27 April 2010.
This year’s Adjudicators were Ms. Orla Martin, Assistant CEO Offaly County Enterprise Board and Ms. Mairead English Maher, Business Adviser with Tipperary South County Enterprise Board. As in previous years the judges were given discretion by the Tipperary North County Enterprise Board to award prizes to projects that excelled in particular areas and this year a Special Category Award was presented for ‘Most Innovative Product’ to St. Mary’s Secondary School, Nenagh along with a cash prize of €60 and framed certificate. In recognition of the effort made by the other businesses that exhibited at the County Final, the Board awarded certificates and Merit Awards of €30 to each.
Details of the 2010 County winners are detailed below:-
SENIOR CATEGORY:
Winners (€600): ‘Stress-busters Inc’, Aindrui O’Fearuil, Colaiste Mhuire Co- Ed/Gaelcholaiste Na Siuire, Thurles
Runner Up (€400): ‘Breakfast at Tiffanys’, Etaoin O’Meara, Emma-Jane Purcell, Bernie Bergin, Eimear Butler, Fiona Cantwell and Kate Kerrane, Presentation Secondary School, Thurles
Third Prize (€200): ‘Be Dazzled’, Melissa Morris, Gillian Dunne, Fiona Kiely, Aislinn Healy, Laura Sheridan and Deirdre Ryan, Presentation Secondary School, Thurles
SPECIAL CATEGORY AWARD (€60):
‘Most Innovative Product’, ‘Lil Rascals Books’, Collette Carey, Aimee O’Connell, Roisin O’Brien, Katie Grace, Charlotte Buckley, St. Mary’s Secondary School, Nenagh
INTERMEDIATE CATEGORY:
Winner (€400): ‘Float Biscuits’ promoted by Brima Jordan, Tracey Shorley, Roisin Dooley and Samantha Wright, Colaiste Mhuire Co- Ed/Gaelcholaiste Na Siuire, Thurles. |
| Grants and other supports available for small business start up |
2010-02-08 |
If you are considering starting or expanding a small business, the County Enterprise Board funded by the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment should be your starting point. The Tipperary North County Enterprise Board launched a revised suite of financial supports in November 2009. These new financial supports replace the Capital, Employment and Feasibility Grants which were proffered by the County & City Enterprise Boards over a sixteen year period. The new scheme of aid includes Feasibility/Innovation, Priming and Business Expansion Grants. The Board also offers the support of Mentors, Advisers and Specialist Consultants at just 10% of their cost to individuals thinking of starting or expanding a business or indeed those with serious business issues or concerns.
Applications for Priming Grants may be made by sole traders, partnerships, community or limited companies within the first eighteen months of setting up the business and Business Expansion Grants may be awarded to businesses that are in existence more than 18 months. The criteria under which funding is available from the Board is based on factors such as the sector of the economy in which an enterprise is operating or intends to operate and the proposed size of the enterprise. The Board can assist in the establishment, and/or development, of new and existing enterprises provided that the business is in the commercial sphere; there is evidence that a market exists for the product/service; the project has the capacity for growth and new job creation and the enterprise will employ no more than 10 staff. (The needs of qualifying firms with greater job creation expectations may be dealt with by Enterprise Ireland.) Along with the above eligibility criteria there are certain priorities and restrictions imposed such as:- priority must be given to enterprises in the manufacturing or internationally traded services sector which over time can develop into strong export entities and graduate to the Enterprise Ireland portfolio; tourism enterprises aimed predominantly at overseas visitors; local services promoted by the unemployed, those recently made redundant and women re-entering the workforce. Local services promoted by the unemployed or women trying to re-enter the workforce may be aided provided that those enterprises do not give rise to deadweight or displacement.
Boards are in a position to offer a maximum Priming or Business Development Grant of 50% of the investment or €150,000 whichever is the lesser. However, it is expected that grants over €80,000 and up to €150,000 will be the exception and will only apply in the case of projects that clearly demonstrate a potential to graduate to Enterprise Ireland and/or to export internationally. The maximum Feasibility / Innovation Grant payable will be 50% of the investment or €20,000 which represents a significant increase on the old scheme where a maximum grant of €5,100 applied.
Speaking to the press about the new financial instruments, Rita Guinan, CEO with the Tipperary North CEB stated that the new grants could not have come at a better time. The grants are extremely flexible and will allow the Board to support all business start up costs. The increased grant levels means that the Board can now offer greater incentives to new and existing entrepreneurs and should also help to encourage the unemployed and those recently made redundant to consider business start up and self employment as a real alternative. The grants may be paid in addition to the Back to Work Allowance or Enterprise Start in the case of qualifying applicants” Ms Guinan said.
The Tipperary North County Enterprise Board is also running a series of training programmes over the coming months and owners/managers seeking to improve the performance of their business are now invited to consider participating in the workshops/programmes listed below. Early booking is advised as numbers are strictly limited and places are allocated on a first-come first-served basis.
Start Your Own Business (FETAC Accredited). This programme will be of interest to new start-ups or those considering setting up their own business. The course runs one night per week over 10 weeks. On completion participants will know how to write a business plan, have learned about the legal structures available to set up a business, identified what market research is about and have learned about pricing, costing and budgeting. A participant fee of €60 will apply and fee exemptions may apply to the unemployed.
Management Development Programme is aimed at existing firms, and will involve a mix of 25 group training workshops and one-to-one on-site trouble shooting visits. An information breakfast event will take place in the Abbey Court Hotel on Wednesday 3rd March and the actual programme will start on Wednesday, 24 March and will run weekly over a three month period in Nenagh.
Of interest to new start ups is a Basic Bookkeeping course which will be delivered over 1 full day, to look at the basic books of account and provide an introduction to self assessment, record keeping, daybooks, invoicing, filing for efficient bookkeeping etc. A participant fee of €30 will apply.
A basic knowledge of Excel is essential for participants on the Accounting Using Excel programme which will be delivered over 2 full days. Assuming Trainees have basic Excel they will at the end of this course, be able to explore the package further and use it to maintain a proper manual bookkeeping system for their small business. This is a very practical course and trainees will work on Excel for most of the day producing proper books of account, VAT returns and financial reports.
A Financial Management programme will be delivered over 3 x 3 hour sessions and will cover topics such as Break-even: Operating & Cash-flow; Structure and Interrelationship of Financial Statements – the Balance Sheet, Profit & Loss & Cash Flow Statement; Balance Sheet; Income Statement; Profit v’s Cash Flow; Critical Performance Factors; Business Planning; Annual Budget; Funding; Costing & Pricing etc.
An intensive one day Start Up Bootcamp will be of interest to individuals considering setting up a business. The Start Up Boot Camp covers Business Planning, The Rules of Business, Feasibility, Strategy, Formalities, Marketing, Process & People, Finance, Financial Projections, Writing and Tailoring a Business Plan. A fee of €20 applies and participants will also receive a free copy of Starting Your Own Business workbook.
A full day workshop on Costing & Pricing will be of interest to existing business owner/ managers and will cover: How to implement an effective cost mechanism; Taking overheads into consideration; Time Management; Below the selling line etc.
A Debt Collection workshop covering how to manage your debtors, handling new accounts, paper documentation, collect bad debts, third party legal options, systems etc. will be delivered over 1 x full day and a participant fee of €30 will apply.
While the above programmes have already been scheduled, we are constantly updating and revising our calendar, so please contact us if there you have specific training requirements for you or your business. For your convenience the Board have introduced a new on line booking facility at www.tnceb.ie/training.htm. However in the event of financial difficulties or if you do not have credit card/ laser card you should contact the Board’s offices directly.
Other supports available from the Tipperary North County Enterprise Board include Mentors, Temporary Business Advisors, e-Commerce Coaches, Website Development Grants, Exhibition/Trade Show Grants, Schools Enterprise Programmes and Women in Business focussed initiatives. |
| Enterprise Board announces new grants scheme to stimulate small business |
2009-11-23 |
The Tipperary North County Enterprise Board recently launched a revised suite of financial supports which were approved by the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade & Employment with effect from 2nd November 2009. These new financial supports will replace the Capital, Employment and Feasibility Grants which were proffered by the County & City Enterprise Boards over a sixteen year period. The new scheme of aid includes Feasibility/Innovation, Priming and Business Expansion Grants.
Applications for Priming Grants may be made by sole traders, partnerships, community or limited companies within the first eighteen months of setting up the business and Business Expansion Grants may be awarded to businesses that are in existence more than 18 months. The criteria under which funding is available from the Board is based on factors such as the sector of the economy in which an enterprise is operating or intends to operate and the proposed size of the enterprise. The Board can assist in the establishment, and/or development, of new and existing enterprises provided that the business is in the commercial sphere; there is evidence that a market exists for the product/service; the project has the capacity for growth and new job creation and the enterprise will employ no more than 10 staff. (The needs of qualifying firms with greater job creation expectations may be dealt with by Enterprise Ireland.) Along with the above eligibility criteria there are certain priorities and restrictions imposed such as:- priority must be given to enterprises in the manufacturing or internationally traded services sector which over time can develop into strong export entities and graduate to the Enterprise Ireland portfolio; tourism enterprises aimed predominantly at overseas visitors; local services promoted by the unemployed, those recently made redundant and women re-entering the workforce. Local services can be supported provided that those enterprises do not give rise to concerns about deadweight or displacement.
Boards will be in a position to offer a maximum Priming or Business Development Grant of 50% of the investment or €150,000 whichever is the lesser. However, it is expected that grants over €80,000 and up to €150,000 will be the exception and will only apply in the case of projects that clearly demonstrate a potential to graduate to Enterprise Ireland and/or to export internationally. The maximum Feasibility / Innovation Grant payable will be 50% of the investment or €20,000 which represents a significant increase on the old scheme where a maximum grant of €5,100 applied.
Speaking to the press about the new financial instruments, Rita Guinan, CEO with the Tipperary North CEB stated that “the new scheme could not have come at a better time. The grants are extremely flexible and will allow the Board to support all business start up costs. The increased grant levels means that the Board can now offer greater incentives to new and existing entrepreneurs and should also help to encourage the unemployed and those recently made redundant to consider business start up and self employment. The grants may be paid in addition to the Back to Work Allowance or Enterprise Start in the case of qualifying applicants” Ms Guinan said. |
| Enterprise Board offers opportunity for Craft Makers and Designers to participate in Showcase 2010. |
2009-11-12 |
Showcase Ireland 2010 takes place at the RDS (Main Hall), Dublin from Sunday 24th January to Wednesday 27th January 2010.
Now in its 34th year, Showcase is recognised as the best place in the world to find unique products from Ireland`s leading craft makers and designers. The four-day initiative attracts more than 450 exhibitors and over 5,000 domestic and overseas buyers. This year Tipperary North County Enterprise Board has provisionally reserved a number of stands in the CEB “Island”. These stands have a floor area of 2M x 2M and will include shell scheme, lighting etc. Craft makers will be able to participate at a subsidised rate of just €350 with the Tipperary North County Enterprise Board paying 75% of the costs.
Prior to making an application to participate at this event you are advised to spend some time perusing the Showcase Ireland website www.showcaseireland.ie to ensure that you are fully familiar with the event and to make sure that the exhibitor categories this year are relevant for your product.
If you would like to discuss participating in the designated CEB area at Showcase 2010, why not contact Ms Eleanor Forrest, Assistant C.E.O. who is the designated contact for Showcase 2010. Eleanor may be contacted on 067-33086 or email Eleanor@tnceb.ie. |
| EXPERT MENTOR ADVICE FOR WOMEN IN BUSINESS |
2009-10-28 |
As part of National Women’s Enterprise Day, County and City Enterprise Boards are offering mentoring clinics at their daylong conference in Mullingar on November 20th. Delegates will be offered confidential, one-to-one sessions with experienced business mentors for fifteen minute appointments, aimed at facilitating a general discussion around the issues facing their business.
According to Rita Guinan, Chief Executive Officer with the Tipperary North County Enterprise Board, these sessions will be informal, friendly and helpful: “This is a fantastic opportunity for women in business to avail of expert advice and guidance from entrepreneurs, on a one-to-one basis. Our impressive mentor panel can advise on a wide variety of functional areas, including issues around starting a business, human resources, finance, marketing, sales and e-commerce.“
The panel of experienced mentors include Bernadette Farrell (Business Start-Up and Sustainability), Joanne Coughlan (Finance), Fiona Brown Johnson (Human Resources), John Clarke (Sales and Marketing), Elaine Hyland (Finance), Heidi Corr (Sales and Marketing), Kieran Hanrahan (Business Start-Up and Sustainability), Padraig Considine (Tax Advisor), Joanne Hession (Business Start-Up and Sustainability), Rob Marr (Sales and Marketing) and Johnny Beirne (Internet and E-Commerce).
The mentoring clinics will be managed by appointment and delegates can register through the National Women’s Enterprise Day website at www.nwed.ie. Co-funded by the European Social Fund and the Irish Exchequer, the aim of National Women’s Enterprise Day is to give national recognition to the role of female entrepreneurship. The keynote speakers at the conference on November 20th include the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Ms. Mary Coughlan T.D., Jo Fairley, co-founder of Green and Black’s Organic Chocolate, Rita Shah from Shabra Plastics and Social Media Author, Krishna De.
Tickets are available to buy for National Women’s Enterprise Day in Mullingar through www.nwed.ie and are priced at €100 each, which includes mentoring appointments.
For more information about National Women’s Enterprise Day, please contact ENGAGE IRELAND:
Sarah Bohan or Serena Bryans at Engage Ireland, Tel: (01) 88 55 162 E-mail: info@engageireland.com
|
| INSPIRATIONAL WOMEN TO GATHER IN MULLINGAR |
2009-10-22 |
As part of National Women’s Enterprise Day, County and City Enterprise Boards across the country have invited pioneering female entrepreneurs to address their annual conference on November 20th.
Co-funded by the European Social Fund and the Irish Exchequer, the aim of National Women’s Enterprise Day is to give national recognition to the role of female entrepreneurship.
Keynote speakers on November 20th in Mullingar include the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Ms. Mary Coughlan T.D., along with three leading entrepreneurs: Jo Fairley, Rita Shah and Krishna De. Fairley is co –founder of Green & Blacks organic chocolate company, which she sold in 2005. She remains on in an ambassadorial role, travelling the world as the brand grows in the US and Australia.
Rita Shah is co-founder and Managing Director of Monaghan-based Shabra Plastics. This multi award winning entrepreneur has steered her recycling company to become an industry leader in the manufacture and recycling of plastic products.
Krishna De is an award winning digital marketing, brand engagement and social media author, considered to be one of Europe’s leading authorities in her field. |
| Summer Seminars |
2009-07-01 |
We are considering running a number of short training courses over the months of July and August. Please let us know if any of these would be of interest to you.
* Learning More About Excel
* Advanced Excel
* Blogging and Social Media
* The Power of You - Padraig O`Maille
* Business Planning
* Opportunities in Franchising
* Opportunities in Food |
| The North Tipperary Opportunities Fair was timely, relevant and valuable. |
2009-05-29 |
Described by one attendee as "timely, relevant and very valuable" summed up the general consensus in Nenagh on Tuesday last.
The Tus Nua North Tipperary Opportunities Fair attracted more than 200 people to Nenagh on Tuesday last, 26 May. The Fair was a multi-agency response to the growing unemployment problem in the county and featured information desks, seminars and an opportunity to meet with representatives of Tipperary Institute, Enterprise Ireland, Tipperary North County Enterprise Board, FAS, North Tipperary VEC, Department of Social & Family Affairs, Tipperary Leader Partnership, HSE and a host of others offering options in terms of financial supports for returning to education, upskilling, start your own business, or just simply how to deal with your unemployed status.
Tus Nua was hailed as a great example of agencies co-operating by Moy Breen, Director of the Business Department at Tipperary Institute. Moya speaking to the local media said that "thirty four exhibitors from across training, education, business development, banking and welfare spectrum participated in the Fair which provided valuable information and contacts for the hundreds of people who visited".
The agencies involved in the organisation of Tus Nua (Enterprise Ireland, FAS, North Tipperary VEC, Tipperary Institute and Tipperary North County Enterprise Board) will now assess the outcome, consider the needs identified by attendees and endeavour to come up with a meaningful response at a local level. |
| Tus Nua offers HOPE after redundancy |
2009-05-19 |
Jerry Hough from Nenagh, a married man and father to three boys, was made redundnat in 2004. "I didn`t know where to start, what to do or how to figure it out". In September 2005, Jerry entered Teach an Leinn in Nenagh, an Adult Education Centre, where he completed his Leaving Certificate and subsequently FETAC level 4 & % business studies. "My biggest challenge was the fear of failure and the apporehension of being a mature student entering back into the education system. Those fears and anxieities were soon alleviated after I entered Teach an Leinn where I received lots of help and support and a confidence to continue my studies into further third level education. I am currently in my 2nd year at Tipperary Institute and one step closer to my goal of getting my Honours Degree in Business Studies".
"My advice to anyone who finds themselves in the same situation as I found myself in after I was made redundant is that even with all the mixed emotions you have after losing your job, there are opportunities out there. Do you want to get a qualification, start your own business, be an accountant or work in management. The journey is challenging but worth it".
In recognition of that challenge local agencies have come together to organise the North Tipperary Opportunties Fair which will present the varied jopportunities and range of supports available in the region in education, training and enterprise for people who have been affected by layoffs or redundancies.
The event will be held in the Abbey Court Hotle, Nenagh on Tuesday 26th May from 2pm to 8 pm. The North Tipperary Opportunities Fair will host a number of organisations including Enterprise Irelandd, Tipperary North County Enterprise Board, North Tipperary VEC, Tipperary Institute, Limerick IT, University of Limerick, Citizens Information, Jobs Club, FAS and Department of Social & Family Affairs. The event is designed to give practical advice and guidance in the supports available to assist people into further education or to start a business. People affected by redundancy in the region can discuss these options with advisors on the spot. Admission is free.
For further information on the Tus Nua North Tippeary Opportunities Fair visit www.tusnua.ie |
| Local Agencies come together for North Tipperary Opportunities Fair |
2009-05-12 |
Tus Nua (a grouping consisting of Enterprise Ireland, FAS, VEC, Tipperary Institute and Tipperary North County Enterprise Board) is announcing the North Tipperary Opportunities Fair. Directed at those in the area being affected by layoffs and redundancies the North Tipperary Opportunities Fair will present the varied opportunities and range of supports available in the region in education, training and enterprise.
The event will be held in the Abbey Court Hotel on Tuesday, 26th May from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. the North Tipperary Opportunities Fair will host a number of organisations including Enterprise ireland, Tipperary North County Enterprise Board, North Tipperary VEC, Tipperary Institute, Limerick IT, University of Limerick, Citizens Information, Jobs Club, FAS and Department of Social & Family Affairs. The event is designed to give practical advice and guidance in the supports available to assist people into further education or to start a business. People affected by redundancy in the region can discuss these options with specialists on the spot.
Moya Breen, Director of Business at Tipperary Institute said "HOPE North Tipperary has been organised by the local representatives of national agencies as a means of assisting people affected by redundnacy in the county. A highly skilled workforce will be needed to get the region back on track and it`s never too late to embark on an education or training programme. There is a wide and varied range of education options available in the region and all who attend the event will get an enthusiastic and encouraging response from the exhibitors".
Rita Guinan said "The North Tipperary opportunities Fair is extremely important because exhibitions and supports that support upskilling and retraining will help to improve employability and the supports and opportunities in the region for new and developing businesses are significant. I would encourage aspiring entrepreneurs to come to this event, meet with people from Enterprise Ireland and the Tipperary North County Enterprise Board to explore their options further".
The Opportunities Fair at the Abbey Court Hotel, Nenagh will give people the chance to meet all those who support them under one roof. Members of the public, specifically those who have been affected by recent redundancies, are encouraged to attend this free event on 26th May to find out more about the opportunities and supports available to them.
Check out www.tusnua.ie for further information. |
| Bishop Harty N.S., Ballinree, wins Enterprise Board`s Primary Schools Competition |
2009-03-11 |
Students from 4th and 6th Class at Bishop Harty N.S., under the direction of Teacher Joan O`Meara won the 2008/2009 "Interview with an Entrepreneur" County competition sponsored by the Tipperary North County Enterprise Board. This year`s runner-up was Scoil Na Maighne, Moyne under the direction of Ms. Ester Hogan while 3rd place went to Scoil Treasa Naofa, Borrisoleigh under the direction of Ms. Butler for the second year in a row.
CEB officials visited all three winning schools to present the prizes on Friday last 6 March. The winning entry from Bishop Harty N.S. titled "From Waste to Energy" featured an interview with local entrepreneur, Tim Cullinan of Tipperary Milling Company Limited - a pig farmer whose enterprise is based in Ballymackey. The project was initiated after Mr. Cullinan was ivited to the school during Science Week to give a talk and answer questions about his facility. The project centred on the need for Mr. Cullinan, following a directive from Brussels forbidding the spreading of slurry during winter months, to install an Anaerobic Digester at his pig plant which after a specific scientific treatment will transform pig manure into power and fertiliser. The Ballinree project was selected by the adjudicators and scored highest in categories such as Innovation, Research, Overall presentation, Teamwork and Lessons Learned. This year the Tipperary North County Enterprise Board received thirteen entries and Ballinree emerged victorious jon their first occasion to enter the competition.
The competition was judged by a representative of the Chamber of Commerce and the Limerick County Enterprise Board. The Competition carried a generous prize fund worth €5,000. School prizes included a laptop and case for the overall winning school and digital cameras for the runner-up and third places. A cash prixe of €1,500 was awarded to the three winning entries, with €700 going to Ballinree N.S., €500 to Scoil Na Maighne Moyne and €300 to Borrisoleigh N.S. Winning schools were also awarded a framed certificate of achievement and a photograph while the Teacher for each winning entry received a €100 Book Voucher.
Under the direction of Ms. Ester Hogan, Principal, studnets from 4th, 5th and 6th classes at Scoil na Maighne, N.S. interviewed local entrepreneur, Ms. Breda Maher of Cooleeney Cheese. The Moyne students were commended on producing a very comprehensive report using maps, photography and highlighting the areas that each student worked on. Again this was the first time that the school entered the competition.
The focus of Scoil Treasa Naofa, Borrisoleigh N.S.`s project was an interview with Mr. Richard Tynan of Tynan Design. Students under the direction again this year of Ms. Butler produced a very well presented and colourful report detailing the work of Tynan Design and they also provided the report on memory stick. The adjudicators commented that the layout of the report was excellent and that a huge amount of research and effort had gone into the project.
Tipperary North County Enterprise Board delivers a number of programmes annually, all designed to heighten business awareness and to foster an enterprise culture in the County. The Board supports schools in the delivery of a number of action based enterprise programmes intended to introduce students to the concept of entrepreneurship at an early age. Initiatives such as Enterprise Encounter, Enterprise Days and Student Enterprise Awards help to familiarise students with business operations and terminology generating an appreciation of the benefits that business brings to the local community in terms of jobs and other spin offs.
In pursuit of their objective to further link enterprise with education and to cultivate an even stronger enterprise culture, the Board designed this new competition for North Tipperary`s primary school students in 2006. Students are required to identify and interview a local entrepreneur/successful business person. Based on this interview, students produce a report documenting the story of the entrepreneur and detailing their experience in starting their own business. Entries have to be original with the Entrepreneur coming from the local area. |
| Does Your Business Need Help or Restructuring? |
2009-02-13 |
You may now be in the same position as many other entrepreneurs who were feeling the pinch in ther business due to declining sales, failure to get paid, diminishing margins, pressures from financial institutions, etc. Why not contact the Tipperary North County Enterprise Board who can assist you through the assignment of a specialist advisor who may be in a position to restructure your business model, renegotiate your financial facilities and ultimately help you trade jout of your current difficulties. The Board has a panel of consultants and mentors which they assign to companies on a one-to-one basis at nominal rates with over 90% of the costs carried by the Board. A comprehensive schedule of training supports is now available and can be accessed by telephoning 067 33086 or email to info@tnceb.ie. In the current climate, the Board will waive training fees if company circumstances necessitate.
The Tipperary North County Enterprise Board is also running a series of training programmes over the coming months which include a mix of morning, day and evening courses all designed with the new and existing entrepreneur in mind. Owners/managers seeking to improve the performance of their business are now invited to consider participating in the workshops/programmes listed below. Early booking is advised as numbers are strictly limited and places are allocated on a first-come first-served basis.
Start Your Own Business (FETAC Accredited). This programme will be of interest to new start-ups or those considering setting up their own business. The course runs one night per week over 10 weeks. On completion participants will know how to write a business plan, have learned about legal structures available to set up a business, identified what market research is about and have learned about pricing, costing and budgeting. A participant fee of €70 will apply.
Managing in a Downturn. Running or managing a small business often leaves little time to keep track of international, or even national, economic indicators that might affect your sector and your specific operation. The challenge is to be aggresive and imaginative. Businesses that survive and even prosper during hard times must be able to look beyond the present to see the firm from a new perspective and to do business differently. Participant fee: €90.00
Selling on eBay: a one day introduction to selling your product or service through eBay. Cost: €20.00
Management Development Programme, with Blaise Brosnan, MRI. This course always receives an extremely high level of satisfaction with clients. It is aimed at existing firms, and will involve a mix of group training workshops and one-to-one on-site trouble shooting visits. The Programme will commence on Wednesday, 11th March and will run weekly over a three month period.
"Counting the Beans" - Management Accounting for Owner Managers. How critical is good Managment Accounting Information? Do you have good information to hand at all times? Can you instantly identify your monthly turnover? Do you know what your overheads are? This programme is run over 3 evenings with a participant fee of €40.00
"SMART KNOW" - Smart Knowledge series. This series of five workshops will help participants find new ways of doing business in the future. The programme will include hands-on group work that will show you how to add value to your goods/services. Cost €400 per workshop or 5 workshops for €120.00.
The above programmes have been scheduled, however, we are constantly updating and revising our calendar, so please contact us if you have a training requirement for your business.
Other supports available from the Tipperary North County Enterprise Board include Capital, Employment and Feasibility Study Grants, Research and Development/Design Shannon interventions, Mentors, Temporary Business Advisors, e-Commerce Coaches, Website Development Grants, Exhibition/Trade Show Grants, Schools Enterprise programmes and Women in Business focussed initiatives. |
| Enterprise Board anxious to identify firms affected by the DELL Announcement |
2009-01-12 |
The Tipperary North County Enterprise Board in a statement issued to local media expressed their disappointment and regret at the loss of 1900 jobs at the Dell Manufacturing plant in Limerick. Rita Guinan, CEO of North Tipperary confirmed that they work closely with about 200 client companies in the North Tipperary area many of whom are very concerned at the possible "knock on" effect of the Dell announcement.
Upun til 7 January, Dell was the most significant employer in the Mid West Region, providing over 3,000 permanent jobs at its operation in Raheen, Limerick. Its contribution to the regional economy in terms of direct wages and the purchase of local goods and services was immense in addition to their contribution to the State`s eports and to the profile of the country generally.
This announcement is a very significant blow at a person level for each of the 1900 permanent employees who will lose their jobs at Dell, and comes at a time when the Irish economy is facing very significant challenges.
Ms. Guinan went on to say that "we remain a small open economy and are therefore very exposed to internation market developments. Current challenges include the domestic cost enviroment, adverse currency movements negatively affecting exporters (the recent weakening in the value of sterling), ongoing turbulence in global financial markets and the apparent deepening of the downturn in the international economy." In recent times the Mid West has taken a number of very significant blows with downsizings, closures and job losses, the layoff of 290 temporary Dell staff, 100 job losses at the Flextronics plant in Raheen, Limerick, etc. It should be noted that at the end of the year Tipperary North CEB undertook its annual employment survey which highlighted a net loss of 48 jobs when compared to 2007 figures.
The Board is conscious that a signficant number of local micro-enterprises - our client companies are focused on servicing the multinational sector in the Mid West region. Consequently, the Board needs to shape supports to assist firms now affected by the Dell situation. Over the coming weeks all small firms on the CEB`s client list will be visited by the Executive to determine their needs and prevailing issues in the current economic downturn.
"The Board will be working closely with Enterprise Ireland, FAS and other bodies to support these companies and individuals affected over the coming months. The County Enterprise Baord services are tailored to support the growth and development of start-ups and micro enterprises. We provide a wide range of services to new and established businesses including advice, training and business mentoring, financial supports for training and growth. To those that will lose their jobs and that have an interest in starting their own business we would encourage them to meet with their local County Enterprise Board in the coming weeks and months to discuss the range of services, supports and training that we offer to start-up companies. Even in the toughest market conditions there are always growth opportunities for businesses that provide innovative products and services" Ms. Guinan said.
Ends. |
| Board the Enterprise Bus |
2008-10-28 |
If you running a business or thinking of starting one then hop onboard the Enterprise Bus. You can discuss business ideas and get information from advisors from Bank of Ireland, the Tipperary North County Enterprise Board and Enterprise Ireland. The service is free to the public and is available in the first week of November.
Speaking to the Midland Tribune about the initiative, Rita Guinan, CEO with the Tipperary North County Enterprise Board stated that “the Enterprise Bus will visit the main centres of population in North Tipperary and will be open to the public during lunch and after office hours. This should afford busy entrepreneurs or those at work thinking about starting a business an opportunity to meet an Adviser in their own locality with the minimum of disruption to their day. We are also very pleased that Enterprise Ireland who have responsibility for providing supports for High Potential Start Ups and companies employing more than ten staff will be joining us on the Enterprise Bus. The Enterprise Bus has been piloted in a number of areas around the main cities and we are delighted to bring it to North Tipperary at a time when enterprise needs all the support and encouragement that it can get”.
The bus will be visiting Main Street in Borrisokane from 2.30pm-7.30pm on Monday 3rd November and Banba Square in Nenagh from 11.30am to 7.30pm on Tuesday, 4th November. On Wednesday 5th November the bus will stop in the square in Templemore from 11.30am-2.30pm and then head to Castle Street in Roscrea, where it will be open to the public from 4.30pm-7.30pm. On Thursday 6th November the bus will be parked opposite Goosers Bar & Restaurant in Ballina from 11.30am to 2.30pm and then on the Square in Newport from 4.30pm-7.30pm. The bus will end its journey in Thurles, where it will be parked from 11.30am to 7.30pm on Liberty Square on Friday 7th November.
The Enterprise Bus is an initiative of Bank of Ireland in conjunction with the County & City Enterprise Boards nationally. Further information is available from the Enterprise Board on 067-33086 or your local branch of Bank of Ireland. |
| Ballina firm wins the 2008 North Tipperary Enterprise Award |
2008-09-25 |
Digino Marketing Ltd, Ballina was announced as the overall winner of the 2008 National Enterprise Awards County Competition by the Tipperary North County Enterprise Board. The announcement was made at a lunch time prize giving ceremony held at Gooser’s Restaurant, Ballina on Thursday last 25 September. This year’s Runner Up prize went to Marion Cooney, t/a Marion Murphy Cooney Fashion Designs Youghal, Newtown, Nenagh (who won the 3rd place award in 2007 and Best New Business Entrant in 2006), and this year’s “Best New Business” award went to Kerrie O’Connor, T/a Event Success, Rathurles, Nenagh. The County Enterprise Board had proffered a cash prize fund of €3,000 for the 2008 County Competition and as in previous years beautiful Louise Kennedy crystal awards and certificates of acheivement. The County winners Digino Marketing Ltd., owned by Ed and Caroline Field will now advance to represent North Tipperary at the National Finals to be held in Dublin Castle on 11 November next.
The competition was introduced in 1997 and recognises the contribution that small enterprises make to Ireland’s economic development and acknowledges their role in building a vibrant and successful indigenous business sector. The competition is open to all small firms that have received financial support from the County or City Enterprise Boards in the past. This year’s awards were presented by Dr. Alice Morgan, Regional Manager, Shannon Development and new Chairperson of the Tipperary North County Enterprise Board. Rita Guinan, the Enterprise Board CEO acted as MC for the event which was attended by business interests, media, Board Directors and staff.
The winning entries were selected by an independent adjudicator on the Board’s behalf and during the ceremony, the C.E.O. expressed their thanks to Brian Keating, Thurles Technology Park for assisting the Board with the selection process.
At National level the Competition carries a prize fund worth in excess of €20,000 and the winning companies gain invaluable press coverage and acclaim.
Previous county winners included: 2007 - Cooleeney Farmhouse Cheese, Moyne Thurles who made it into the top 8 firms in the Country, John Cavanagh, T/a Friary Iron Works, Nenagh, Soap Opera Ltd, Nenagh; QA Resources, Brenwood Products Ltd., Hennessy Engineering Works, The Manor Nursing Home, Tipperary Garden Peat, Tipperary Wood Products and Mackey Plant.
A profile on this year’s winners follows for your information.
Overall Winner
Digino Ltd was incorporated on the 21st March 2001 and the Directors and Shareholders of the company are Ed Field and his wife Caroline. The company won the Golden Spider Internet Award in 2004 and is one of only 110 companies worldwide recognised by Google™ as Google™ Ad Word qualified. Digino is a full service digital marketing agency and their suite of services include, online advertising, website design, e-mail marketing, search engine marketing, emerging media strategies and visitor analytics. The company helps industry leaders such as Ryanair, Irish Ferries, 3V, Renault, Failte Ireland, StayCity.com and Getcover.com use digital channels to acquire and retain customers, build brands, enhance profitability and grow their organisations.
The company traded initially from Limerick City and received Capital Grant Assistance from the Tipperary North County Enterprise Board in 2006 towards the cost of establishing their new facility in Ballina. Digino is currently participating in the Plato MidWest Network and has availed of a number of the Board’s Soft Supports over the years. The company also provides e-marketing training solutions for Shannon Development, the CEB (in respect of Tech-Check) etc.
Runner Up
Marion Murphy Cooney, T/a Marion Murphy Cooney Fashion Designs, Newtown, Nenagh
Marion Murphy-Cooney, a prize winning graduate of Limerick School of Art and Design, established a small manufacturing enterprise based in Newtown, Nenagh, in 2005 specialising in the design and manufacture of exclusive ladies fashion wear. She produces quality garments such as jackets, coats, skirts, trousers, tops and bridal wear, utilising a number of different fabrics and skins most of which are sourced in Paris, London etc. Marion was a finalist in the Smirnoff International Fashion Awards and her designs have featured in VIP Magazine, RTE’s Off the Rails etc. She has clocked up an amount of A-List clients who rely on Marion’s talents for red carpet functions, such as Maura Durrane from TV3`s Ireland AM and Lorraine Keane also from TV3, to the very stylish Celia Holman Lee. You can find Marion’s collections throughout Munster boutiques and at her Newport, Nenagh studio. She can cater for any size and can impress any style pallet, with her modern cuts with a nostalgic influence. Marion has recently dressed the Miss Limerick and the Tipperary Rose and was the winner of the VIP Style Awards Best Dress 2006 worn by Lorraine Keane. Marion received employment and web site grant assistance from the Board and has participated in a number of training programmes over the past 3 years.
Third Place / Best New Business
Kerrie O’Connor, T/a Event Succes, Rathurles, Nenagh
Event Success was set up in 2006 by Kerrie O’Connor to specialise in the management of corporate events throughout Ireland. Events include Conferences, Seminars, Business Launches and Client Entertainment such as a gala dinner or a day at the races. Ms. O’Connor provides a full event management service, running an event from start to finish by: discussing the event concept with the Promoter; providing a running order; budget; drafting invitations and promotional materials; liaising with suppliers (venue, A/V Hire, caterers, photographers etc) and co-ordinating the event itself. The business also offers a venue finding service. The Promoter studied at Fitzwilliam College in Dublin and received a Diploma in Event Management, which is accredited by the Public Relations Institute of Ireland. Kerrie holds a BA in Psychology and Certificate in Communication Skills from University College Dublin. Kerrie also holds certificates in HACCP and in Food Hygiene Management.
In June 2006 Event Success was awarded an employment grant by the Tipperary North County Enterprise Board to establish the business. Kerrie O’Connor has been engaged by the Board to co-ordinate the North Tipperary Women in Business Network for the past 2 years and has managed their affiliation to Network Ireland. Since setting up her own business Kerrie has availed of a number of soft supports from the Board such as Mentors, Website Development Grant etc. |
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