Budding Cork entrepreneurs and start-ups hoping to make their mark in 2015 have been invited to apply to participate in the next Greenshoots Emerging Entrepreneur Programme, commencing in February at Macroom E Enterprise Centre. 

In the first four years since its inception, the Greenshoots Emerging Entrepreneur Programme has worked with dozens of individuals in Cork, helping them develop their new business ideas from conceptual stages through to launching new companies, with most establishing themselves as successful Cork-based companies in a renewed economy. 

The Greenshoots Emerging Entrepreneur Programme is a support, training and guidance programme for early stage start-ups, delivered at Macroom E Enterprise Centre and funded by the Economic Development Section of Cork County Council and the Local Enterprise Office South Cork.

During each programme, Greenshoots participants avail of free shared office space, weekly training workshops on key areas of business development, individual mentorship, business coaching, links with local and national support agencies, guidance from excellent established entrepreneurs and lots of peer to peer support. 

"The greenshoots programme is an exciting breeding ground for creative ideas, business progression and practical hands on advice towards running your own business. We're delighted to be welcoming yet another group of Cork's top entrepreneurs and are looking forward to seeing all the ideas they bring."said Catherine Costello, Enterprise Programme Manager.

Over the course of four years since it began, many success stories have emerged from the alumni group, such as:

• Ed Donovan, Advanced Medical Screening (formerly HeartAid). Ed took part in the first Greenshoots Programme in 2010 and is now the leading provider of cardiac screening in Ireland, working with the GPA, Laya Healthcare and Irish Rugby.

• Derek Binchy, Winner Kayak. Derek took part in 2011/12 and is now also running two spin-off businesses in Cork - Spike Island Adventure and Neptune Kayak - and employing 15 people. 

• Attila Magyar, Mamukko. Attila took part in 2012/13 and has recently made headlines after his company acquired the sails of the Astrid Tall Ship to create a limited edition range of designer upcycled bags. Mamukko are selling their unique bag styles worldwide.    

• David O’Brien, The Workshop Cork. David took part in 2012/13 and is now running the successful tea room and antique store ‘The Workshop’ at Lios Cross, Ballygarvan. Recently rated no. 1 café in Cork on Trip Advisor.

• Kathy O’Connor, Sherkin North Shore. Kathy took part in 2013/14 and now runs a destination nature and learning venue soon to feature on RTE’s At Your Service. 

Application details: A simple application form is available from www.greenshootscork.ie. The deadline for applications is Wednesday 21st January 2015, after which applicants will be shortlisted for an interview presentation and selected based on the viability of their business idea. The programme is due to start in early February.