The IE Domain Registry (IEDR), has opened applications for the 2014 Optimise fund. The fund, worth €150,000, aims to support 15 small business owners with a .ie domain looking to improve their e-commerce capabilities.
The fund provides professional consultation, practical training and e-commerce development support to give small business owners the e-tools and know-how to grow their business via the Internet.
Since the fund’s establishment in 2011, Optimise has helped 45 small businesses in tourism and culture, food and retail, technology and business services, as well as media and education.
David Curtin, chief executive, IE Domain Registry, said: “Optimise is about hands-on, practical help that really makes a difference to small companies’ online potential. We match the businesses’ needs with experts’ independent advice on the right tools and technologies to create a better online experience for the companies, and their customers. Online sales and bookings will be a priority for some, while greater customer engagement using social media will be a focus for others. Either way, the move to e-commerce needn’t be daunting. It’s something that small Irish companies have been reluctant to embrace for too long, and too many companies continue to miss out on new markets, new customers and new growth opportunities as a result.”
Attending the launch, Minister for Communications, Energy & Natural Resources Pat Rabbitte said: “The Optimise fund is a great opportunity for small companies to develop their online presence, access global markets and improve competitiveness. One of the key aims of the National Digital Strategy is to get an additional 2,000 small Irish businesses trading online over the next two years. The Optimise fund will encourage companies to develop the capacity and skills which are fundamental to participation in the global economy and is a fine example of the practical support for small businesses developing their online presence.”
Applications are open to all Irish organisations classified as an SME or micro-enterprise with a .ie website that is hosted online and currently accessible to the public. For further details about the Optimise fund see www.iedr.ie/optimise. Closing date for receipt of entries is 20 June 2014.
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