A new resource to help businesses access a range of government supports called the National Enterprise Hub has been launched today by Minister for Enterprise Peter Burke.
The Hub is described as a one-stop shop which brings together information and resources on over 180 supports from 19 Departments and state agencies.
It will be staffed by experts and trained advisors, and can be accessed through a new online hub www.neh.gov.ie or by phone (01 727 2100), or via live chat.
"Running a business isn't easy, but accessing government supports should be," said Conor O'Donovan, Head of the National Enterprise Hub.
"Our research shows that small businesses are facing many challenges including rising costs, attracting and retaining talent and not having the time to focus on the future of their business."
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He said the National Enterprise Hub is a new single source of government supports for businesses. "From simple, easy-to-access grants, to expert advice and training, we’ve brought all of this information together in one place and have a helpful team of experts and advisors who will guide businesses every step of the way".
This free service will make it easier for entrepreneurs to access and avail of supports such as grants, funding, loans and expert advice across a range of sectors, including retail, tourism and hospitality, food and beverages. It also aims to engage small businesses who have yet to avail of Government support.
Minister Burke said the National Enterprise Hub is a fantastic new service which for the first time, gathers together all government supports in one place for businesses to search and access, saving SMEs time and valuable resources in identifying the grants and measures that are relevant and available.
"The aim is to make engaging with government supports more efficient, and to increase the uptake of grants and government schemes, which will ultimately support the development and growth of Irish businesses.
The Minister said, "The National Enterprise Hub was a key element of the SME Package agreed by Government in May and I am delighted that it has now been delivered."
This initiative is funded by the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment and operated by Enterprise Ireland.
The Hub also involves the Departments of Finance, Social Protection, Agriculture, Food and the Marine as well as Local Enterprise Offices, IDA Ireland, InterTradeIreland, SEAI, Fáilte Ireland, Skillnet Ireland, Bord Bia, Design and Crafts Council Ireland, Microfinance Ireland, Strategic Banking Corporation of Ireland, Teagasc, Údarás na Gaeltachta, Solas and the Western Development Commission.
