Bizstartup.ie - Biz Centre

Critically important success factors, therefore, for accelerating business growth and consolidation, include knowledge and intellectual input and skills/expertise resourcing.

Today, business promoters need to be highly accomplished in good management techniques, in budgeting and in resource planning. They need to be conversant with all regulatory requirements which impact on their operations whether in the field of corporate governance, health and safety or workers’ rights. Their employees too must have the necessary knowledge and skills to enable the functions of business, manufacturing and service provision to be performed efficiently, competitively and in a manner conducive to long-term sustainability.

Wide range of ‘soft’ supports available

To assist small business in meeting these challenges, the County and City Enterprise Boards provide a wide range of ‘soft’ supports, which are geared to meet specific business needs. The range of ‘soft’ supports on offer can vary from Board to Board but would typically include training programmes, workshops, seminars and mentoring services.

Business-specific training programmes

All training programmes are business-specific in content and are designed through consultation with participating enterprises. Flexibility of approach is the key consideration involved. CEBs frequently sub-contract the provision of these supports to specialist providers, where this is more efficient and/or most cost effective.

Tailored training

While training content can be tailored to the particular knowledge and skills requirements of individual clients, certain common themes are ever popular and in high demand. Examples are start-your-own-business-programmes, management development courses, sales /marketing courses, financial management training, e-commerce and IT skills training, etc. Various women-in-business initiatives and networks are also in place with a view to encouraging higher female participation in entrepreneurial and business activity.