Trading Online Voucher Scheme

With the trend ever increasing towards online spending, it is estimated that only 23% of small Irish businesses are actively engaged in eCommerce sales. For businesses employing less than ten people this figure is even lower. It is now believed that 70% of online purchases made in Ireland are done in overseas markets. There is now an urgency to ensure that businesses recognise that this is happening and that they are encouraged and supported to correctly respond to this digital reality. It is critical for small businesses to develop their online presence and that is why this scheme has been developed by the Department of Communications. 

Are you eligible? 

To be eligible for the scheme you must meet the following requirements:

• Less than 10 employees
• Turnover less than €2million
• The business must be registered and trading for at least 6 months
• The business must be located in Co. Monaghan

What can the Voucher be used for?

Vouchers are available up to  a maximum of €2500 or 50% of expenditure(Net of VAT), whichever is the lesser and it can be used for the following:

• Creating a new eCommerce website or updating and existing website
• Getting professional photographs to showcase the products or services 
• Search Engine Optimisation: Making sure that your business comes up when your product of service is searched for online
• Digital Training: Training to enable you to keep the website updated.
• Online Advertising: Create and implement an online advertising campaign
• Branding: Creating or updating your businesses online brand

What next & how to apply?

1. First of all, to be eligible for the voucher you must attend one of our Trading Online Workshops, details of the next workshop and booking link are available above.
2. Once you have attended a workshop you will need to start contacting web design companies and get quotes for the work you want carried out. 
3. When you have either 3 quotes or a rationale for working with a particular supplier, you need to submit your application form. Apply Here
4. Your application will be evaluated when we receive it and it will either be approved or rejected.
5. If approved, you will be issued with a Letter of Offer. You will then have 6 months, from the date of this letter to complete the work.
6. When the 6 months are up and you have completed the work to the website you must send in a copy of your bank statement showing the payment to the supplier, a copy of your tax clearance certificate and the original invoice for the work.
7. Once we receive these documents we will be able to process your voucher payment.

If you have any further queries in relation to this scheme, please contact our office on 047 71818 or via email at info@leo.monaghancoco.ie