Border region entrepreneur programme launched

Enterprise Ireland is to launch their new Propel Programme shortly. This enterprise incubation programme is to run in the Border region - Co's Cavan, Donegal, Leitrim, Louth, Monaghan and Sligo.

Propel is designed to provide ambitious entrepreneurs, who have an idea for an export focused business, with the necessary business skills, expertise, contacts, networks and facilities to establish successful businesses. It begins with a series of part-time workshops completed over an 8-week period which allows participants to test their idea, gain invaluable market expertise and plan ahead for taking the step of moving from employment to self-employment. Part-time workshops will being in late April 2009.

The next phase will be facilitated for 10 months and will allow the entrepreneurs the time and space to develop their business plan and get the business up and running. Selection onto Phase 2 will be competitive and requires a full-time commitment.

Participants will be able to benefit from a comprehensive range of supports including:

Potential financial support of up to €38,000 towards your first year's salary
High quality interactive enterprise development training
Incubation facilities including a hot desk
Being part of an elite group of up to 12 like minded entrepreneurs
Participation in a variety of Cross Border activities with other entrepreneurs
Access to potential investors including business angels and venture capitalists
Access to both local & global contacts & networks

For more information on the programme contact Meabh Conaghan at meabh.conaghan@enterprise-ireland.com