Local Enterprise Offices in Clare, Limerick and Tipperary have hosted called ‘Beyond Local’. The event aims to highlight opportunities in key overseas markets so as Irish enterprises can explore the possibility of internationalising their businesses.
On Tuesday Limerick held an export event where business owners could discuss opportunities to internationalise, the pitfalls and challenges that are involved, and receive advice on the prospect of growing their business on an international platform. Suggested key markets included Germany, France, and the Nordics.
Brexit and the market developments it promises mean that Irish SMEs will be impacted by the UK’s department from the EU, and not in a positive way. Events and schemes similar to ‘Beyond Local’ are essential to supporting Irish communities and their businesses practically combat and manage repercussions. As Minister Breen said at the event, it is key to ‘diversify into new markets and regions around the world.’
Guest speakers from the emerging European markets as well as exporting companies Design Pro Ltd., VigiTrust and Ei Electronics were in attendance. Various SME support agencies including LEOs, Enterprise Ireland, Enterprise Europe Network, German Irish Chamber of Commerce and Strategic Banking Corporation of Ireland also attended.
Local Enterprise Offices are and will play a major role in supporting entrepreneurs and small businesses across the county. Last year in the Midwest alone, 541 new jobs were created by LEO supported companies. 2.5 million euro in grants funds were approved, mentoring was provided to 530 and training programmes focused on Media Skills, Cashflow Management and Patents had an attendance of more than 3000 business men and women.
