Enterprise Ireland launches €200K Feasibility Fund for Cork

Enterprise Ireland has launched its €200,000 Competitive Feasibility Fund for entrepreneurs and early stage start-up companies in the Cork region. The fund is aimed at stimulating businesses by providing up to €25,000 in funding to each successful applicant.

The fund is open to individuals, early-stage companies, or prospective businesses involved in manufacturing and internationally traded services in sectors such as internet, games, apps, cloud computing, enterprise software, life sciences, food, beverages, consumer products, industrial products, engineering, medical devices and e-health.

Speaking at the launch, Martin Corkery, Regional Manager – Cork, Enterprise Ireland, said: “A priority for Enterprise Ireland is to help Irish entrepreneurs and companies to start up. The purpose of this fund is to give successful applicants the ability to assess the viability and market potential of their business ideas. Enterprise Ireland is seeking to support business ideas that are likely to achieve significant growth within three to four years, with sales of €1 million per annum and employment of 10 or more people.”

He added: “Eligible applications for funding will be considered on a competitive basis and shortlisted. All shortlisted companies will then present their idea to a panel in the Ludgate Hub, Skibbereen. The subsequent support, if awarded, will be determined by that panel.”

A brief information session on applying for the Competitive Feasibility Fund will be held on October 20th in Enterprise Ireland’s Cork Office. Applications for funding will open on October 13th and will close at 3pm on October 27th. Entrepreneurs and early stage start-up companies from across the Cork region are encouraged to apply. Presentations by shortlisted candidates will take place at the Ludgate Hub, Skibbereen, on November 11th 2016.

Pictured above: Minister Mary Mitchell O’Connor with Martin Corkery, Enterprise Ireland, and Grainne Dwyer, Ludgate Hub