Enterprise Ireland's Seed and Venture Capital Programme was set up to boost the development of start up businesses and this type of investment is strongly needed to help these businesses make an impact in the export market. Last year alone, Enterprise Ireland invested €42m in 74 companies and €52m was invested in 64 companies in 2009.
This critical funding is a life line to businesses struggling to enter export markets and provides support and employment to businesses.
During the year, there was an increase of €18 million in seed capital funding available to Irish companies:
- €17 million Bank of Ireland Start-up and Emerging Sectors Equity Fund 2010.
- €1 million investment by Galway University Foundation in the original Bank of Ireland Seed and Early Stage Equity.
- €75 million Atlantic Bridge II Limited Partnership Fund, which will build upon the strong performance of the previous Atlantic Bridge Fund.
So if you are thinking of starting a business suitable for the export market, contact Barry Kieran for advice on funding, grants and business planning, 047 84955.