GMIT CASTLEBAR INNOVATION CENTRE TO RUN SECOND ENTERPRISE TRAINING PROGRAMME FOR SMEs
An innovative enterprise-training programme for small to medium enterprises is to commence in the GMIT Innovation in Business Centre (IiBC) in Castlebar in March following the success of the pilot programme last March. South West Mayo Development Company and Mayo North East Leader Partnership Company supported the programme under the Rural Development Programme 2007 - 2013.
The four-month training programme, which will be delivered on a part-time basis, has ten places available for entrepreneurs. The SME programme will have a combined approach of practical learning through workshop delivery, hands-on experience and one-to-one mentoring for all participants. The Innovation Centre will facilitate the networking and other supports necessary to navigate the business start-up process.
Products and services developed in last year's programme were innovative flood technologies, bespoke furniture design, silk scarves, fascinators, organic make-up products, sports website, services for the tourism industry, seafood products and other services/products.
Alan Flannery and Colin Cannon, two graduates of GMIT Letterfrack, participated on the 2010 pilot programme. "We were delighted to receive the support and assistance this programme provided. We are now at a stage where we are getting ready to launch our new business, Groove Furniture. I would recommend anybody embarking on a start-up venture to participate in a training programme" says Colin Cannon, Groove Furniture.
The GMIT Innovation Centre provides a professional, modern environment for early-stage entrepreneurs and businesses. In addition to business accommodation, there are opportunities to engage with other businesses at the same or similar stages of development. Most importantly, the management at the centre provides excellent support and advice. For more information contact iibccastlebar@gmit.ie or call 094 90 43198.
Maria Staunton, Centre Manager, GMIT Castlebar IiBC, is delighted with the success of the course and to be able to offer this programme again in March. "It enables individuals to explore their business idea and at the end of the four months understand if the business is feasible or not. We are very happy to work with both South West Mayo Development Company and Mayo North East Leader Partnership Company in delivering the course".
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