There are phenomenal supports available for new enterprises through both South Kerry Development Partnership CLG (SKDP) and the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection (DEASP) to give them every chance to succeed.

This was the key message for potential new business owners at a showcase event for enterprises set up under the Back to Work Enterprise Allowance Scheme that took place in Killarney recently. It was the first in-person promotional event to be held since the COVID crisis started.

Speaking at the event, Owen MacMahon of Weasel Party Hire said that the Back to Work Scheme was a phenomenal support to him and he feels he used the supports very wisely over the two years he was on it. He said he used each and every one of the supports offered to him.

“I would advise all start-ups to support each other at events such as this, exchange details, learn from each other and do business with each other,” Owen said.

Among the elements of advice Owen offered for others thinking of starting a new business was to get into good habits from the beginning by getting a good accountant and keeping excellent paperwork. He said that it was worth taking time to make goals, monthly, bi-annually and yearly goals. Owen added that new businesses should make a plan for the first two years and he encouraged them to plough as much money as possible back into the business and it would pay off.

Owen also advised new business owners to take time to research other ideas that you could add into your business to add value and reach other to similar businesses to ask them how this idea worked for them – especially if they are not in your area and not competitors!

Michael Kenneally of the DEASP pointed out to those present that in addition to their weekly payment, start-up businesses could also get financial support with the costs of setting up the business through the Enterprise Support Grant scheme. Elements that are covered in this scheme include capital outlays, insurance costs and accountancy costs, however a person has to be approved for the Back to Work Enterprise Allowance scheme.

Enterprise Officer with SKDP, Joanne Griffin, added that in addition to the supports available through DEASP, SKDP can also provide additional support to start-ups such as mentoring and training supports in the form of marketing, taxation workshops and entrepreneur mindset workshops.

Anyone interested in starting their own business and who is currently in receipt of a social welfare payment should contact Joanne in the SKDP Killorglin Office on 066 9761615 or Clare O’Shea in the SKDP Cahersiveen Office on 066 9472724 for further information.