SMALL businesses in Kerry received almost €350,000 in grant aid this year according to Kerry Local Enterprise Office, while Kerry County Council spent a further €260,000 on training initiatives.
In their end of year review, Kerry LEO say they demonstrated a strong performance in 2017 as renewed confidence becomes evident in the small business sector.
Grant aid in the sum of €346,463 was approved in respect of 25 micro enterprises with the potential to create 69 full time jobs and 64 part time/seasonal jobs. This additional support will help retain an additional 38 jobs in supported businesses.
In addition, Kerry County Council spent a further sum of €260,000 on the provision of a range of training initiatives. 878 individuals participated in events. These events include Business Start Up Training, Business Growth Training, Digital Marketing and Networking.
The Mentoring Programme made over 100 assignments across a range of disciplines including marketing, sales and digital marketing strategies.
The Food Academy Programme completed in March with 13 early stage food producers completing the six month programme and were offered placements in SuperValu.
The Local Enterprise Office ran the vibrant Student Enterprise Programme and delivered the Online Trading Voucher Scheme.
The national Microfinance Ireland loan fund was promoted locally and 15 businesses submitted applications for funding up to €25,000 each with the support of the office.
Moira Murrell, Chief Executive of Kerry County Council stated “the small business sector is critical to the economy of Kerry and it does need support. The County Council through the Local Enterprise Office provides invaluable support across a range of business sectors. I am encouraged by the entrepreneurial flair shown as the council is continuously prospecting for the new business leaders of the future to create sustainable and high calibre local jobs. Our office also works closely with existing businesses to generate additional employment. This runs alongside our ongoing campaign for Foreign Direct Investment. County Kerry needs this. The range of activities of the Local Enterprise Office is extensive and represents practical and valuable support schemes for the business sector. Kerry County Council is full committed to the economic development of the county. The recent announcement and tremendous success of Kerry in the Regional Enterprise Development Fund is testament to the work ethos and linkages in the County.”
2018 training schedules are currently under development and people can book on line at www.localenterprise.ie/kerry.