Limerick tech start-ups get support


26 Apr 2007

A new development programme for start-up businesses in Limerick, including several technology companies, has been launched. The LEAP programme is run by the Enterprise Acceleration Centre in Limerick Institute of Technology and will help 11 companies during 2007.

Participating start-ups include: Trecal Software, which develops calibration software for the aviation industry; Falcon Resource Software, which develops innovative platform software for business process optimisation; ePims, which produces a paperless MIS system for manufacturing; Sonic Engineering, which provides niche application software for optimising engine performance; Ezpages, an online business directory; ARV Excellence, provider of Six Sigma training to the medical device industry; Tricycle Interactive, interactive design consultancy; and Audio Guide, which provides location-relevant audio information devices.

“The Enterprise Acceleration Centre and the LEAP programme provides the ideal environment and platform for these promoters, and their extended teams, to develop their business concepts and turn them into successful businesses,” commented Donnacha Hughes, manager of the Enterprise Acceleration Centre. “The programme will facilitate the enterprises to develop products and services, branding and most importantly to win customers and sales.”

“What the LEAP programme brings is a network of contacts who can assist in a practical way with the full range of business issues, such as accountancy, product development and production, building a management team, intellectual property, branding, sales and marketing. The full-year programme is also geared towards assisting the companies to source the finance they require,” said LEAP programme manager Graham Royce.

Hughes added: “This is the first year of the LEAP programme in Limerick. Our objective is to facilitate the development of these businesses and thereby establish the track record of the Enterprise Acceleration Centre as the No 1 location for establishing high performance start-ups in the region.”

It is envisaged that approval will be received in Autumn 2007 for a further three years of the LEAP programme.

By Niall Byrne

Pictured – LEAP programme manager Graham Royce and Donncha Hughes, manager, Enterprise Acceleration Centre