The Galway Mayo Institute of Technology is now recruiting for the next Midlands & West Enterprise Programme (MWEP) commencing in April 2010. This is a one-year programme providing entrepreneurs with business skills, networks, facilities and supports necessary to navigate and execute the business start-up process.

The Midlands & West Enterprise Programme (MWEP) 2009-2010 Group

Applicants should ideally have a number of years industry experience and have the enthusiasm and drive necessary to develop and grow a successful business. Participants may apply to Enterprise Ireland for CORD funding, which could provide up to 50 per cent of previous year's gross salary.

The MWEP provides participants with business acumen, office desk space, mentoring, networking, facilities, and supports necessary to help them in establishing and running their own businesses. Participants should have a business idea with growth and export potential.

"These new start-up companies will form the foundation for the next generation of Irish enterprises," said George McCourt, Manager of the Innovation in Business Centre in GMIT, Galway and he added "We are looking forward to supporting the next generation of innovative start-ups in the region through the new programme."

Fifteen high potential entrepreneurs are participating on the current MWEP - products/services being developed include Innovative Medical Devices, Mobile Phone Services, Energy Monitoring, Bibliometrics, Smart Travel Tools, Specialist Financial Portals and Environment Research & Development services.

"Starting up a business venture can be a daunting prospect. The MWEP was fantastic in providing a structured approach to the start up process as well as providing advice and mentoring on how to navigate through the early stages. I would recommend anybody embarking on a startup venture to participate in a programme like this to improve chances of success." Colm Rochford, CEO, Powersavvy Limited.

The MWEP may also be of interest to expatriates who are hoping to return home to set up their own business in the West of Ireland.

The Innovation in Business Centres at Galway-Mayo Institute of Technology provides incubation space and a range of business development supports to new start-up companies. Further information is available at our website www.gmit.ie/iibc.

Applicants interested in the Mayo centre should contact Maria Staunton at (094) 9043198 or email maria.staunton@gmit.ie