Bizstartup.ie - NewsHeritage and business success

“Over 1,300 events took place throughout the week and attendance levels recorded across the country were extremely high,” said Michael Starrett, chief executive of the Heritage Council.

New and small businesses in the areas of crafts and hospitality were among the nearly 700 organisations and individuals that organised events.

“National Heritage Week could not have taken place without the dedication and commitment of communities across Ireland who have spent many months planning and organising heritage events in their area,” said Starrett.

Participating in events also acted as inspiration for people to think of setting up businesses themselves or acquiring new and different skills

“Businesses such as Jerpoint Glass, Maggies Ceramics Studio and the Artworks Pottery Studio all have strong potential for people with a bit of support to make a go of these skills as a career. These are exactly the sorts of SMEs the country needs,” says Starrett.

Competitions with 10 September deadline

The Heritage Council also issued a reminder to everyone who attended Heritage Week events to enter two competitions both of which have a closing date of the 10 September.

The Wild Child Photo Competition, celebrating 2010 as International Year of Biodiversity and which is open to all age groups from 7 upwards, will appeal to anyone who likes to get creative in the outdoors with a camera. The top prize in the adult category is a stay in an Irish Landmark Trust property to the value of €500. You can also win a break away in magnificent Carton House by entering the Spirit of Ireland competition and writing a review of your experiences at events during the week.

Further information about the competitions is available here.