Quick export support service provided by LEO
With the looming challenge of Brexit for SME’s in Ireland, Local Enterprise Office (LEO) South Dublin have some easily accessible supports for local SMEs to build their online and e-commerce potential as well as increasing market share and exports.
Despite increasing online spending, it is estimated that only 23% of Irish Business use e-commerce in a meaningful way.
SUPPORT: Colm Ward, Head of LEO South Dublin
It is estimated that more than 70% online expenditure in Ireland is done in the overseas market.
This provides an obvious option for local businesses to increase their share of this growing market. In addition, improved e-commerce websites help local businesses to look beyond Ireland to grow their business by finding new markets abroad and increasing export sales.
Supports from LEO South Dublin to help businesses achieve these objectives are:
LEO encourage local small businesses to apply for our TAME grants for support of up to €2,500 for participation at trade fairs, development of specific marketing material to explore new export markets and the development of export related websites (including website development for start-up businesses who will be aimed at export markets).
The Trading Online Voucher scheme offers small businesses the opportunity to develop their website or digital marketing strategy by availing of vouchers of up to €2,500.
To date LEO have approved almost 100 TOVs for local businesses to the value of €212,000.
To apply for a Trading Online Voucher, clients must attend a short information seminar on how to use and get the best value for money from the voucher.
LEO run a number of Trading Online Seminars throughout the year, and their next seminar is scheduled during October.
All micro and smaller businesses can also avail of the Brexit SME Scorecard, an online tool where businesses can self-diagnose their readiness for Brexit and then discuss possible options and responses with Business Advisors from LEO.
Colm Ward, Head of Enterprise, LEO South Dublin told The Echo: “These supports are a key part of the LEO package to support local small business in South Dublin in the context of broader economic issues.
“They offer quick and accessible solutions to help businesses grow their online presence and market share as well as exploring opportunities in markets abroad. Businesses facing challenges in these and other areas should start a conversation with us about what supports they can access from their Local Enterprise Office.”
Further details on all of these supports for local businesses can be found at: www.localenterpriseoffice.ie/SouthDublin
TAGS Business
