Entrepreneurs complete training in GMIT IiBC
Author: Press Office
Date Article Written Tuesday 5th July 2011
A dog grooming kennel, a website for purchasing materials for moving home, and a health management course... some of the services/products being developed by people on the 2011 SME programme.Twelve budding entrepreneurs have just completed a Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) Programme at GMIT Castlebar’s Innovation in Business Centre (IiBC).
Other products and services they are developing include motorhome rentals, bespoke furniture pieces, jewellery courses, Irish mythology products, new energy saving products and a web portal for craft suppliers.
The enterprise-training programme for Mayo was launched in April 2011 with support from Mayo South West Development Company and Mayo North East Partnership who funded it under the Rural Development Programme 2007 - 2013.
The four-month training programme was delivered on a part-time basis and had a combined approach of practical learning through workshop delivery, hands-on experience and critically important one-to-one mentoring for all participants. The IiBC also facilitated networking and other supports necessary to navigate the business start-up process.
Fintan Conlon, Director of Moving Box Ireland, who completed the programme says: “Whether you are starting a new business or growing an existing one, I highly recommend this SME Programme.”
“We received excellent mentoring from the Discovery Partnership, the IiBC and the various experts employed to deliver the workshops. It helped grow a small service into the launch of a brand new ecommerce site www.movingboxireland.com. I am delighted with the result.”
The GMIT Innovation Centre provides a professional, modern environment for early-stage entrepreneurs and businesses. In addition to business accommodation, there are opportunities to engage with other businesses at the same or similar stages of development. Most importantly, the management at the centre provides excellent support and advice. For more information contact iibccastlebar@gmit.ie
Maria Staunton, IiBC Centre Manager understands the importance of job creation in today’s environment. “Ireland needs more people to create jobs and all participants on the course have potential to start employing people in the near future. The IiBC is focused on the creation of new jobs through supporting entrepreneurs, setting up High Potential Start-Up (HPSUs) companies and creating innovative companies with a view to exporting in the near future.”
“We were delighted to work with both South West Mayo Development Company and Mayo North East Leader Partnership once again in getting the course delivered”.
South West Mayo Development Company and Mayo North East Leader Partnership both deliver a Rural Development Programme, also known as Leader. Both companies are supporting the development of enterprises and communities.
The criteria for eligibility of projects are set down by the EU and the Department of Community, Equality and Gaeltacht Affairs. If you have a project which you think might be eligible, contact one of the South West Mayo Development Company or Mayo North East Leader Partnership Project Officers who will give you advice and assistance. Mayo Development Company 098-41950 or Mayo North East Leader Partnership 094-9256745
For more information about the Innovation in Business Centre (IiBC) at GMIT Castlebar, contact Maria Staunton, IiBC Manager, GMIT Castlebar, tel. 094-9043198, email: iibccastlebar@gmit.ie