Owner Manager

Budding tech entrepreneurs sought for free support programme

09.02.2010
The Synergy Centre at the Institute of Technology Tallaght, Dublin (ITT Dublin) is currently taking applications for the Synergy Enterprise Platform Programme, which is a free, practical support programme aimed at budding entrepreneurs who are in the early stages of setting up a technology-based or a knowledge-intensive business.

The programme is a fully funded, full-time course which offers training and practical advice for entrepreneurs on everything from initial business plan development, business planning, innovation, financial planning, HR and legal issues, right through to first sales.

Participants will be located in Synergy Centre and will also have the support of experienced entrepreneurs and small business experts who will guide the entrepreneurs as they build their company.

Realistic businesses
“On the Synergy Enterprise Platform Programme, we help entrepreneurs follow a disciplined and structured approach to turn their business concepts into well-defined, realistic and fundable business plans,” said Pat O’Donnell, Manager of the Synergy Centre at ITT Dublin.

“To date, over 130 companies have grown from exciting budding business concepts to job creating enterprises with the support of Synergy Centre and we look forward to helping many more in the future,” he added.

Energy and suppport
According to one former participant, Luke Brennan of Balnagowan Broadband Ltd (2007), the Synergy programme can offer entrepreneurs a foothold in what can often be a bewildering experience of setting up your own company.

“It is often the case that the entrepreneur exists within a world of boundless possibility, where every obstacle can be overcome; this is the entrepreneur’s advantage. However, this can easily become a wilderness, needing the support and experience of those that have trekked through similar hills and made it back to tell the tale. Exactly that experience is provided by the Enterprise Platform Programme mentors, with the added advantage of introducing several other adventurers on similar paths,” he said.

“For anyone just starting or thinking of starting a new business, the Enterprise Performance Platform programme is a must,” added Ciaran McGowan, CEO, Staff Balance Ltd (2008).

“Staff Balance has benefited tremendously from the Enterprise Platform Programme which provided excelled direction, structure and content. Mentors provided constructive criticism and insightful advice while participant camaraderie created a dynamic energy and support throughout the programme.

“I would recommend the Enterprise Platform Programme as a wonderful experience and a very good journey for learning to build a successful business,” he added.

The closing date for applications for the next Synergy Enterprise Platform Programme is Friday, 26 February, 2010.

The successful applicants will need to be available to begin the full-time course on 23 March 2010.

There is no charge for attending the programme, as it is fully funded under the National Development plan.

Application forms for the Synergy Enterprise Platform Programme are available on www.synergycentre.ie/programmes.php