Empowering Small Businesses: €2,500 in support available for support businesses to trade online from Carlow County Council – Local Enterprise Office
Did you know SME’s with up to 10 staff can avail of up €2,500 worth of support for their digital marketing and developing activities from the Local Enterprise Office in Carlow County Council?
Andrea Dalton, Cathaoirleach of Carlow County Council emphasized, "In today's digital landscape, online trading is not just an option; it's a necessity for business survival. The Trading Online Voucher Scheme is a lifeline for small enterprises, offering financial support and training that can transform their digital capabilities and competitiveness in the market. The Cathaoirleach commented “that we are delighted to be able to offer support to County Carlow SME’s with this scheme and over €80,000 worth of funding available County Carlow SME’s in 2024 to be allocated”.
Dalton further elaborated on the broader impact of online trading, saying, "The scheme is not just about financial assistance; it's an investment in the future of these businesses. Embracing the online sphere is not just about survival but about thriving in a dynamic, ever-evolving market."
In welcoming the funding for online trading in 2024, the Cathaoirleach also lauded the County Carlow businesses who were award winners in the Google You’re the Business Campaign with 3 of the 21 National Finalists coming from County Carlow.
Three winners from Carlow including Ballybar Ireland, a unique country clothing and lifestyle brand, Go With the Flow River Adventures and dance apparel specialists Studio Dancewear . Winners will receive a digital support package from Google which includes €1,000 Google ads credit, as well as one on one consultations with experts that will help them to further develop and grow their business. The selected businesses are invited to attend a celebratory event at Google’s The Foundry.
In respect of the Trading Online Voucher Scheme, Sarah Byrne, Business Advisor with the Local Enterprise Office echoed the sentiment of the Cathaoirleach, stating, "Engaging in online trading is a strategic imperative for SMEs on their development pathway. It opens doors to new markets, broadens customer reach, and enhances overall business resilience. The Trading Online Voucher Scheme provides a tangible boost, making this transition financially viable for businesses of all sizes."
Sarah highlighted the strategic advantages for SMEs, noting, "The scheme not only cuts the costs of online development but also offers impartial training that empowers businesses to make well-informed decisions. This knowledge is invaluable in navigating the complexities of the digital landscape."
The eligibility criteria for the scheme, designed with SMEs in mind, include factors like limited e-commerce presence, a small workforce, modest turnover, and a minimum trading history of 6 months. The geographical focus within the jurisdiction of the Local Enterprise Office (LEO) ensures that businesses receive tailored support.
Sarah added, "This scheme is an investment in the resilience and future success of small businesses. It's an opportunity to harness the power of the digital marketplace and chart a course towards a thriving and competitive future.".
The next online briefing for the Trading Online Voucher will happen as part of Local Enterprise Week on 4th March 2024. To register go to www.localenterprise.ie/carlow or contact Sarah Byrne on sbyrne@carlowcoco.ie.
For further information contact Sarah Byrne on 059/9129783 or e-mail sbyrne@carlowcoco.ie
