“At present there are over 80 Government supported programmes currently in place to support SMEs (Small and medium-sized enterprises) but most people don’t know about these schemes and there is a very low take-up rate. Therefore fostering a county of entrepreneurs and start-ups, it is vital to ensure that all existing businesses in Wicklow are aware of the support on offer”, says Andrew Doyle, Fine Gael TD for Wicklow/Carlow East
“Evidence has shown that over 90% of Irish start-ups and SMEs have a very low awareness of the schemes that are available. This is why an awareness campaign of this kind is urgently needed in order to help and support these services which will consist of local radio advertising, online ads and the launch of a new website will help to get the message out”
“Start-ups account for two thirds of all new jobs created. SMEs are hugely important to local business life in Wicklow and I would urge anyone involved in business in the area to log on to Actionplanforjobs.ie and to use the “Supporting SMEs” online guide.
“By making more businesses aware of what the State can do for them we can support more of them to start-up, grow, and create the jobs we need. SMEs are the engine of our economy providing employment for people in every town and village in this country.
“We now have a huge range of supports aimed specifically at this sector. Through the actionplanforjobs.ie website, with the help of entrepreneurs and business people, we will be able to get the information directly to businesses so they can apply.
“I want to see SMEs in Wicklow and across the country, not only start, survive, but also thrive”
