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:: News ::
| 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 |
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
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| 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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