PRESS RELEASE 24.02.11
OPPORTUNITY FOR BUSINESS START-UPS
The Galway Mayo Institute of Technology is now recruiting for the next Midlands & West
Enterprise Programme (MWEP) commencing in June 2011. This is a seven month programme
providing entrepreneurs with business skills, networks, facilities and supports necessary to
navigate and execute the business start-up process.
Applicants should ideally have a number of years industry experience and have the enthusiasm
and drive necessary to develop and grow a successful business. Participants may apply to
Enterprise Ireland for CORD funding, which could provide up to 50 per cent of previous year’s
gross salary.
The MWEP provides participants with business acumen, office desk space, mentoring,
networking, facilities, and supports necessary to help them in establishing and running their own
businesses. Participants should have a business idea with growth and export potential.
“These new start-up companies will form the foundation for the next generation of Irish
enterprises,” said George McCourt, Manager of the Innovation in Business Centre in GMIT and
he added “We are looking forward to supporting the next generation of innovative start-ups in the
region through the new programme.”
Thirteen high potential entrepreneurs are participating on the current MWEP. Products/services
being developed include Innovative Medical Devices, Vehicle Telematics, Energy Solutions,
Wireless Automation, Smart Business Directories, Water management, Reflexology products,
NLP Digital media, Manufacturing software and Digital Rights Defense systems.
“Starting a new business is a very exciting time but there are many challenges to be addressed
before you achieve success. The MWEP programme provided me with a structured approach
through a series of modules presented by industry experts in areas like Market Research, Sources
of Funding and Sales and Marketing. It also provided modern office facilities in a professional
environment where you are working with other like-minded Entrepreneurs. An excellent
environment for challenging and validating your business idea” Tommy Tyrrell, MD,
www.Irelands-Directory
The MWEP may also be of interest to expatriates who are hoping to return home to set up their
own business in the West of Ireland.
The Innovation in Business Centres at Galway-Mayo Institute of Technology provides incubation
space and a range of business development supports to new start-up companies. Further
information is available at our website www.gmit.ie/iibc.
Applicants interested in the Galway centre are welcome to contact George McCourt at (091)
742822 or email george.mccourt@gmit.ie and those interested the Mayo centre should contact
Maria Staunton at (094) 9043198 or email maria.staunton@gmit.ie