Graduates of Fingal County Enterprise Board’s ‘Start Your Own Business’ programme have created an estimated 303 jobs since 2008.
The enterprise-focused training programme produced 483 graduates over three years, and so far 81pc of those graduates surveyed have either started or are about to start their own business locally.
The research findings, carried out independently earlier this year, have shown that 40pc of businesses established are now exporting, or have potential to export. Remarkably, 99pc of those surveyed were happy with their decision to set up a business.
The part-time Start Your Own Business programme is delivered by the Fingal County Enterprise Board several times a year and is targeted at those people seriously considering starting their own company. Participants are taught about effective business planning, finance, marketing, sales, legal issues and funding sources.
“These job creation figures clearly show that dedicated enterprise supports do work, but only if planned and delivered directly to those who need it, at a local level,” said Oisin Geoghegan, CEO with the Fingal County Enterprise Board.
Over the past two years, the Fingal County Enterprise Board has also reported a surge in demand for its mentoring, networking and financial assistance services.
Geoghegan added: “In reality, self-employment will become more popular in the years ahead and we must continue to have resources in place to encourage and support people who are setting up their own businesses and creating jobs.”
Article courtesy of Bizstartup.ie
