Support available for new local business women – Corcoran Kennedy

Fine Gael TD for Laois/Offaly, Marcella Corcoran Kennedy, has encouraged local women in Laois, Offaly and North Tipperary who have recently started their own business, to apply to ACORNS (Accelerating the Creation of Rural Nascent Start-ups), a fully funded programme to support female entrepreneurs living in rural Ireland.

“Applications are being sought from female entrepreneurs living in rural Ireland for the ACORNS programme, which will provide knowledge, support and networking opportunities to those who are selected. This will provide these women with the opportunity to advance the development of their businesses.

“ACORNS, which is funded under the CEDRA 2015 Rural Innovation and Development Fund is aimed at women in rural Ireland who have recently started a business or who are in the process of doing so.

“ Up to 50 start-up female entrepreneurs outside of Dublin, Cork, Galway, Limerick and Waterford will be selected to receive this support.

“Female entrepreneurs who have set up a business since the 9^th of July 2013 or who are actively planning a new venture can apply by Friday 11^th September. There is no restriction on the sector in which the new business is focused and the pilot programme will begin on the 30th September, at the ACORNS residential Development Forum in Portlaoise, Co. Laois.

“Supporting businesses in rural Ireland is essential to drive the recovery forward and to ensure that people in all areas of the country feel the benefits of economic growth. The Government is committed to implementing the CEDRA report, to driving jobs growth through the Regional Action Plan for Jobs, and along with my Fine Gael colleagues, I am working to provide improved services to rural Ireland through the Standing Up for Rural Ireland campaign.

“I know that there are a lot of excellent business women operating throughout Laois and Offaly. I would encourage all those who are interested to apply for this programme. For more information log into www.acorns.ie”