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Thu, 01 Jan 1970 01:00:00 +0100

Starting your own business in Cork? Cork City Enterprise Board offers new business grants and expert advice to local entrepreneurs.

Thinking of starting your own business or expanding an existing business? Cork City Enterprise Board offers free expert information and advice, new business grants and business expansion grants to entrepreneurs in Cork City.

Who We Can Help

We provide a variety of support packages to small-scale enterprises:

Employing up to a maximum of 10 people
Operating in the manufacturing or internationally traded services sectors
Located in Cork City

How We Can Help

Financial assistance including capital & refundable grants, employment grants, feasibility study grants and equity grants.
Business support packages including business information & advice, mentoring, training and networking & promotional opportunities.

If you are thinking of starting your own business or expanding your existing business in Cork City, contact us today. We will be happy to discuss your eligibility for a new business grant or a business expansion grant. We will also provide you with free information and advice to help you turn your business dream into a reality.

About Us

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About Cork City Enterprise Board

Background

Cork City Enterprise Board was established in 1993 by the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Mr. Ruari Quinn, T.D. Thirty five enterprise boards nationwide were set up as part of a government initiative to encourage entrepreneurship at local level. The Board is a limited company by guarantee and comprises three staff members and a Board of Directors. Funding for the Board is provided by the Irish Government and European Union structural funds.

Our Role

Cork City has a strong and successful small business sector. At Cork City Enterprise Board our goal is to ensure the continued growth and success of micro enterprises in the region.

Our responsibilities include:

Fostering a local enterprise culture
Maximising the employment potential of small businesses in the region
Providing a range of business support packages to small-scale enterprises including business information & advice, mentoring, training and networking & promotional opportunities.
Providing direct financial assistance to qualifying businesses in the form of capital & refundable grants, employment grants, feasibility study grants, and equity grants.
Developing an enterprise culture in Cork schools through the Cork Schools Enterprise Programme.

Here To Help

Cork City Enterprise Board is the first port of call for anyone wishing to start or expand a business in the city. We work closely with companies at every stage of development, from the initial idea stage right through to growth and expansion.

To date we have helped create over 1,000 jobs in Cork City. If you are thinking of setting up a new business or expanding your business, contact us today to see how we can help.

Our Services

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Our Services

Cork City Enterprise Board is the first port of call for anyone looking to set up or grow a small business in Cork City. We provide a range of supports to help local entrepreneurs at every stage of business development.

Our support packages fall into two categories:

Starting Your Own Business

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Starting Your Own Business In Cork

Starting your own business can be an exciting, challenging and rewarding experience. To give yourself the best chance of survival and growth it is essential that you are properly prepared.

As a starting point, it is well worth spending some time considering if you are suited to a career as an entrepreneur.

Is entrepreneurship for you?

Once you decide to take the next step, it is important to make out a logical plan of the steps involved in starting your own business. This will ensure that you cover all the important areas. This '10 Step Guide' can be used as a handy checklist.

10 step guide to starting a business

One of the most important things you will do at this stage is to develop your business plan. The following are some useful tips to help you when writing your plan.

Writing your business plan

Cork City Enterprise Board offers a variety of support packages to help you when starting your own business in Cork. These include training , mentoring, business information & advice, networking & promotional opportunities. We may also be able to provide you with financial assistance.

Business Planner Tool

A comprehensive online resource of information on starting a business and business supports has been developed by the County and City Enterprise Board Network. This website also contains an automated Business Planner to assist in compiling a business plan.

Growing Your Business

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Growing Your Business

If you have come through the early survival stages of business and are looking at how best to expand, Cork City Enterprise Board can help. We can provide expert guidance and advice on how to successfully take your business to the next level.

We can advise on such areas as:

How to break into new markets
Expanding your workforce
Increasing your clientbase
How to diversify your business
Improving sales and marketing

We can help you:

Assess your performance to date
Develop a clear direction for the future
Plan how best to achieve sustainable growth
Develop your management skills

We provide training programmes, a business mentor programme, business information & advice and networking & promotional opportunities specifically tailored to help your business grow. We may also be able to provide you with financial assistance.

Schools Programme

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Cork City Enterprise Board's Schools Programme

What Is The Cork Schools Enterprise Programme?

The Cork Schools Enterprise Programme is an initiative that gives second level students the opportunity to set up and run their own business. Students are exposed to all the realities and challenges faced by entrepreneurs today. Working in teams, they are involved in every stage of the business development from market research and production to sales and marketing etc…

The programme was set up in 2004 and is a joint venture of Cork City, South, North and West Cork enterprise boards. Creating an enterprise culture in Cork schools is a key objective of the four enterprise boards. It is hoped that through the Cork Schools Enterprise Programme many of the participating students will eventually opt for self-employment as a career choice.

More information on the Cork Schools Enterprise Programme is available here.

Benefits Of The Programme

Students learn valuable business skills including finance, marketing, human resources, marketing and production
Valuable exercise in team work
Students gain real life, hands-on business experience, putting into practice what they learn in ‘Business Studies’
Excellent preparation for professional life
Students meet local entrepreneurs and learn from their experiences

How To Apply

Interested parents, teachers or students are welcome to contact us for further information. An explanatory DVD can be sent to your school which will give further details on the programme. We can also organise for an industry expert to call to your school for a briefing day to help teachers co-ordinate the programme.

Media Archive

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Media Archive

FAQs

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FAQs

Cork City Enterprise Board

Who are Cork City Enterprise Board?

What types of business can you help?

What types of assistance do you provide?

How do I apply for financial assistance?

If I do not qualify for financial assistance, are there any other types of support available to me?

Do you provide support for start-ups only?

How can I check if my business qualifies for funding?

How does Cork City Enterprise Board select projects for funding?

What is your policy on confidentiality?

General Questions

How do I choose a legal structure for my business?

How do I register my business name?

How do I register my business for tax and VAT?

Publications & Downloads

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Publications & Downloads

The following documents are available to view as Microsoft Word or Adobe pdf documents. You will need Adobe Acrobat Reader to view pdf documents. This is available to download free on the Adobe website.

Links

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Links

Government Organisations

www.artscouncil.ie (Arts Council of Ireland)

www.basis.ie (Business Access to State Information Services)

www.cso.ie (Central Statistics Office)

www.ccoi.ie (Crafts Council of Ireland)

www.tca.ie (Competition Authority of Ireland)

www.entemp.ie (Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment)

www.enterprise-ireland.com (Enterprise Ireland)

www.fsai.ie (Food Safety Authority of Ireland)

www.irlgov.ie (Government of Ireland)

www.hsa.ie (Health and Safety Authority)

Health and Safety Authority BeSMART Free tool for Health and Safety Assessement of your business https://besmart.hsa.ie/

www.ndp.ie (National Development Plan)

www.fas.ie (National Training and Employment Authority)

www.teagasc.ie (Irish Agriculture and Food Development Authority)

www.bordbia.ie (Irish Food Board)

www.revenue.ie (Irish Revenue)

www.isme.ie (Irish Small and Medium Enterprises Association)

www.enterpriseboards.ie (Enterprise Boards' Web Portal)

www.citizensinformation.ie (Public Service Information Website)

www.patentsoffice.ie (Irish Patents Office)

www.forfas.ie (National Policy Advisory Board)

www.cro.ie (Companies Registration Office)

www.winterready.ie Government's Winter Ready Campaign

Fáilte Ireland Business Tools: A website which provides tailored tools for Irish hotels, guesthouses/B&Bs, self-catering accommodation, restaurants, activity businesses and attractions. All tools are free. Visit the Business Tools Website

Local Authorities

www.corkcity.ie (Cork City Council)

www.corkcoco.ie (Cork County Council)

Education

www.cit.ie (Cork Institute of Technology)

www.ucc.ie (University College Cork)

Other Enterprise Boards

www.sceb.ie (South Cork Enterprise Board)

www.wceb.ie (West Cork Enterprise Board)

www.nceb.ie (North Cork Enterprise Board)

www.kerryenterprise.ie (Kerry Enterprise Board)

Location

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Location

Map to Cork City Enterprise Board

Our Loc8 code is: WCR-39-P46 - click here for Loc8 map

Please do not hesitate to contact us:

Cork City Enterprise Board,
1/2 Bruach Na Laoi,
Union Quay, Cork.

Tel: (021) 4961828
Fax: (021) 4961869.
E-mail: info@corkceb.ie

Contact Us

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Contact Us

Ms. Adrienne Rodgers
Cork City Enterprise Board,
1-2 Bruach Na Laoi,
Union Quay, Cork

Tel: (021) 4961828
Fax: (021) 4961869.
E-mail: info@corkceb.ie

Our Loc8 code is: WCR-39-P46

New Network

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NEW Network

Cork City and South Cork Enterprise Board, have been operating the sucessful Women in Business Network as a joint initiative over the last number of years. Relaunched as NEW (Network of Enterprising Women) in 2009, it is a dynamic and vibrant network of Enterprising Women.

NEW
NEW is a positive opportunity for Cork businesswomen to make effective business contacts, develop new ideas and to be inspired and motivated by interactions with fellow members and by the inspirational speakers at meetings. Dont miss the opportunity to become a member of NEW in 2011. NEW meets for four events per year.
Further information from ita@corkceb.ie

Become a Member
Annual Membership for NEW is highly subsidised at €60 per member. This includes access to 4 key events annually. Simply click here to access our Online Booking and Application for NEW Membership. Online Booking

2012 offers a vibrant programme of 4 events including inspirational speakers and many networking and promotional opportunities.

Wednesday 29th February - How are you planning to use the extra day we’ve been given this year, 29th February? Spend it with us and Debra Searle (www.debrasearle.com) who will inspire you to reach your potential, be positive and think big in 2012. Debra will tell us her inspirational and passionate story of never giving up in an engaging and moving story of success in overcoming the odds as she rowed for 111 days across the Atlantic on her own.

Dates of other meetings - details to be announced shortly:
Wed 25th May 2011
Wed 28th Sept 2011
Wed 30th Nov 2011

Member Benefits

Meet with like minded business women
Opportunity to hear high profile business people
Develop new contacts
Fantastic Promotional Opportunities
Enhance and develop your skills set
Generate new business leads
Valuable networking opportunities

2011 Event Summary:
March - Working Smarter, Not Harder in 2011 - how do we actually do it?
May - Speednetworking Event at the Historial Heritage Centre in Cobh.
September - The Think Tank
November - Suzanne Browne from Handybaby/Clevamama - Clevamama website

2010 Event summary:
February - Speednetworking event
May - Event held at Cork City Gaol with business guru Joan Baker
September - Getting your business online
November - Guest speaker, Veronica Canning

Privacy

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Privacy Statement

This statement applies to all personal data collected vis and in connection with the Cork City Enterprise Board website. We are not responsible for the content or privacy practices of other web sites. Any external links to other websites are clearly identified as such and many are listed in our 'Links' section.

General Statement

Cork City Enterprise Board fully respects your right to privacy, and will not collect any personal information about you on this website without your clear permission. Any personal information which you volunteer to us will be treated strictly in accordance with the Data Protection Acts, 1988 & 2003. In relation to our Business Directory, this information has been volunteered by businesses to us and is held safely by us in electronic format and is not given out to any third party, other than that made available via the online search mechanism on this web site, the purpose for which it was intended, and used for business information purposes only.

Collection and Use of Personal Information

The Cork City Enterprise Board does not collect any personal data about you on this website, apart from information which you volunteer willingly, such as a postal address, telephone number or email address, for example by emailing us at info@corkceb.ie or by using our 'Contact Us' Section. Any information which you provide in this way is not made available to any third parties, and is used by us only in line with the purpose for which you provided it.

Right of Access

Under the Data Protection Act, 1988 & 2003 (Amendment), you have the right to receive a copy of any personal data held by us. A Subject Access Request should be made in writing, by letter or email, signed and accompanied by a copy of a current identification document (e.g. passport, driving license) and addressed to Dave Cody, Chief Executive Officer, Cork City Enterprise Board, 1 - 2 Bruach Na Laoi, Union Quay, Cork or info@corkceb.ie We must take all reasonable steps to confirm your identity before issuing any information. There is no charge for such a request.

Right of Rectification or Erasure

Under the Data Protection Act, 1988 & 2003 (Amendment), you have the right to have your personal data corrected, if inaccurate, or erased, if there is not a legitimate reason for retaining the data. A Request for Rectification or Erasure should be made in writing, by letter or email, signed and accompanied by a copy of a current identification document (e.g. passport, driving license) to and addressed to Dave Cody, Chief Executive Officer, Cork City Enterprise Board, 1 Bruach Na Laoi, Union Quay, Cork. We must take all reasonable steps to confirm your identity before changing or erasing any information. There is not charge for such a request.

Collection of Technical Information

Technical details in connection with visits to this website are logged by our internet service provider for our statistical purposes. No information is collected that could be used by us to identify website visitors. The technical details logged are confined to the following items:

the IP address of the visitor's web server
the top-level domain name used (for example .ie, .com, .org, .net)
the previous website address from which the visitor reached us, including any search terms usedclickstream data which shows the traffic of visitors around this web site (for example pages accessed and documents downloaded)
the type of web browser used by the website visitor

The Cork City Enterprise Board will make no attempt to identify individual visitors, or to associate the technical details listed above with any individual. It is our policy not to disclose such technical information to any third party (apart from our internet service provider, which records such data on our behalf and which is bound by confidentiality provisions in this regard, unless obliged to disclose such information as course of law. The technical information is used only by us for statistical and administrative purposes.

Cancellation Policy

A full refund is made for cancellations made five days prior to the workshop. A 50% cancellation fee will be imposed on cancellations made between 2 and 5 days prior to the beginning of a workshop. No refund is issued for those cancellations made less than 48 hours of start of event. Substitutions are allowed.

Please contact us if you require more information:

Cork City Enterprise Board
1 -2 Bruach Na Laoi,
Union Quay,
Cork.
Tel: 021 4961828
Email: info@corkceb.ie

CEO: Dave Cody

Know your rights: www.dataprotection.ie

News

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Board Of Directors

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Board of Directors

Role Of The Board

The Board of Directors is comprised of members from the local authorities, the social partners, development agencies and community organisations. The Board is responsible for overseeing the management of all activities carried out by Cork City Enterprise Board.

Membership Of The Board

The Board of Directors consists of representatives from the following bodies:

Cork City Council
Enterprise Ireland
FAS
Irish Business and Employers Confederation (IBEC)
Four City Councils
Comhair Chathair Chorcai
Network Ireland
Irish Council for the Status of Women
Irish Council of Trade Unions (ICTU)
The Local Community
Cork Chamber of Commerce

Evaluation Committee

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Evaluation Committee

Role Of The Evaluation Committee

The Board is supported by an eight person Evaluation Committee. The role of the Committee is to assist the Board in allocating funding to small enterprises. The Committee makes recommendations regarding the commercial viability of projects and provides any technical assistance required.

Membership Of The Committee

Enterprise Ireland
AIB Bank
Welch & Co. Auditors and Accountants
Credit Union
Irish Marketing Institute
Cork City Council
Cork Chamber of Commerce
Permanent TSB

Staff

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Staff

Adrienne Rodgers
Acting CEO
Tel: 021 4961828
Email: adrienne@corkceb.ie

Ita Murphy
Training Coordinator/Business Adviser
Tel: 021 4961828
Email: ita@corkceb.ie

Customer Charter

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Customer Charter

Our Objective

The objective of Cork City Enterprise Board is to discharge the duties entrusted to it by The Department of Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation in an efficient and professional manner. This is done at the lowest possible cost to the public, while always recognising their right to a prompt and courteous service.

What To Expect

When dealing with Cork City Enterprise Board you are guaranteed an efficient and quality service at all times. The following is an overview of your entitlements when dealing with the Board:

Courtesy & Helpfulness:

To receive a courteous and helpful service at all times
To be given the name of the official with whom you are dealing
To be directed to the appropriate official dealing with your enquiry

Information:

To be given full and accurate information in a straightforward manner in relation to any query raised.

Efficiency:

To have any query dealt with in a speedy and efficient manner. Our staff will keep any cost you may have to incur to a minimum.

Confidentiality:

To have all information (personal and business related) you provide dealt with in the strictest confidence.

Redress:

To have any legitimate complaint regarding (a) the improper administration of the functions entrusted to the Board and / or (b) the manner in which an enquiry is processed, to be dealt with speedily and sympathetically. If you feel that the Board has not resolved the matter satisfactorily, you are entitled to contact the Office of the Ombudsman or request an independent review.

Clients

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Clients

DB Alliance
John Ketch & Associates
Milltech Toolmaking Services Ltd.
Sowan's Organic
Turner Glass Design
Yellow House Designs
Fiber-Tek Manufacturing Ltd.
Joup Ltd.
Shared Visions Ltd.
T & T Precision Ltd.
Advanced Micro Services Ltd.
Amocom Ltd.
Arbutus Breads Ltd.
EnBio Ltd.
Environmental Laboratory Services Ltd.
Mediterranean Flavours
MVD Ltd.
Performance Plastics Ltd.
Natural Good Food Bakery
Transnational Interconnections Ltd.
Tuula Harrington

Testimonials

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Testimonials

Testimonials:

"The capital grant aid we received from Cork City Enterprise Board towards the purchase of new equipment has enabled us to implement a major upgrade and expansion of our hosting services".

- Hugh Twomey, Managing Director, DB Alliance Ltd.

"Cork City Enterprise Board have been a huge help to me in starting up my business. The invaluable advice, access to highly trained mentors and financial assistance towards setting up our kitchens have all been vital to the success of the business. With the help of the Enterprise Board I now have a well-researched business plan and have made important contacts in the business world".

- Rachael Connolly, Joup

"Cork City Enterprise Board has encouraged & supported us at every stage of our business development, helping us develop new ideas and keeping us informed of any new initiatives that would be of benefit to us".

- John & Deborah Maguire, Yellowhouse Children’s Wear

"Having the Enterprise Board there to help us along the way has been really invaluable. The mentoring and financial support we have received has been vital to the development of our business".

- Louise Delaney, Sowan’s Organic

"The 'Women in Business' programme proved to be a very positive experience for NoteTaking Solutions. This programme provided invaluable advice and support for our fledging business and also helped to structure and co-ordinate our efforts in the start-up phase".

- Rose Quilter, NoteTaking Solutions

Is Entrepreneurship For You?

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Is Entrepreneurship For You?

There are many issues to consider before taking the leap from employment to self- employment. Before you start making any concrete plans for a new venture, take some time to consider if you are prepared for the challenge.

What does it take to become an entrepreneur?

Successful entrepreneurs possess many of the following attributes:

Self-confidence & self-belief
Willingness to take a risk
Self-motivation
Good communication skills
Strong managerial experience
Comfortable with taking on extra responsibilities
Patience – it generally takes about 3 years for a new business to become profitable

As a budding entrepreneur you should carefully examine the list above. Consider which of these qualities you possess and which you need to develop.

Consider the positives and the negatives

It is very important that you are fully aware of both the positive and negative aspects of being your own boss before embarking on any new business venture.

Advantages of being your own boss:

Increased job satisfaction

Flexibility

Can lead to a better work – life balance

Financial rewards

Disadvantages of being your own boss:

Long hours

Possible isolation if working alone

Risk of business failure

Financial insecurity

Extra legal responsibility

10 Step Guide

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10 Step Guide

1. Research your market

Spend time doing some research to see if there is a gap in the market for your product / service.

Identify who your customers are likely to be and where they are located
Find out who your competitors are and the range of products / services they offer

2. Examine your production requirements

Ask yourself the following questions:

Where will the business be located?
What factors do I need to consider when choosing a premises?
What machinery will I need?
Will I need to employ staff?

3. Calculate the total investment you require

Examine the total cost of setting up and running the business. Consider the following:

What costs are involved in buying equipment / business premises?
Will you need to take on staff? If so, you will need to work out the extra costs you will incur as an employer, e.g. PRSI, PAYE, PRSA etc...?
How will you fund your new business venture? Do you intend using your own personal money, applying for grant aid or taking out a business loan?

4. Identify possible sources of funding

Draw up a list of the agencies and organisations that can offer you financial assistance and other forms of support.

5. Establish your selling price and set realistic sales targets

Ensure that your prices are competitive yet realistic. Set yourself an annual sales target and outline how you plan to achieve this target. It is essential when setting your sales targets that they are ambitious yet realistic. Don’t try to achieve the impossible.

6. Research your suppliers

Research who your suppliers are likely to be and where they are located. Request a selection of quotes from potential suppliers to compare prices.

7. Decide on a business structure

There are three potential business structures that you can choose to adopt.

Sole trader:

As a sole trader, you are the owner of the business
You are legally liable for the business and do not have any protection if the business fails
If the business is not successful, all of your assets (business & personal) can be used to pay off your creditors

Private limited company:

A legal entity, separate from its shareholders
If the business fails the shareholders are only liable for any amount outstanding on the share capital they subscribe

Partnership:

An agreement between two or more people to go into business together
If the business fails, each partner is liable for all losses
A ‘Deed of Partnership’ is usually drawn up outlining the obligations of each partner

Please note: it is highly recommended that you consult an accountant or solicitor before choosing an ownership structure for your business.

8. Become aware of your legal obligations

Ensure you make yourself aware of any other legal obligations you need to comply with as a self-employed person. For example:

You will need to register your business name with the Companies Registration Office (CRO). This can be done online at www.cro.ie
The Revenue require you to register as self-employed with your local tax office & make yourself aware of your tax obligations. Further information available at www.revenue.ie

Other regulations e.g. trading licences, planning permission, insurance, health and safety, patents, trademarks, copyright etc…

9. Write your business plan

A business plan is essentially a road map for your business – setting out your long and short term goals and how you plan to achieve them. Guidelines on preparing a business plan are available here.

10. Launch your business

Finally, it's time to launch your business onto the market. You will need to put an effective marketing campaign into operation to ensure you gain plenty of exposure.

Business Plan

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Business Plan

What Is A Business Plan?

A business plan is a document that outlines your business idea, your objectives and how you plan to achieve them. It acts as a road map for your business.

Why Do I Need A Business Plan?

Your business plan communicates the advantages of your business to others e.g. bank managers, investors and funding agencies. Therefore, it is essential in securing finance. It also organises your plans for the business and provides a set of goals against which progress can be measured.

Useful Tips

Prepare the plan yourself:

You know your business idea better than anyone else. Therefore, you are the best person to explain it in your business plan.
Writing your own business plan gives you the chance to anticipate problems that may arise and consider how you will deal with them.
If you have a partner in the business you should work on the plan together.

Be clear & stick to the point:

Keep the document as brief as possible. The overall length will depend on the complexity of the project.
Clearly state your goals and ensure that they are realistic and achievable.
You obviously know your idea inside out – but don’t presume that your reader does. Explain your ideas clearly and logically so that they can be easily understood by others.

Be realistic:

Don’t promise what you can’t deliver! This is particularly important when it comes to your financial projections. Being over optimistic will put your investment at risk.

Guidelines & Template

The following documents are available on this site to help you when writing your business plan:

Guidelines for writing a business plan

Business plan template

Business Planner Tool

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Business Planner Tool

A comprehensive online resource of information on starting a business and business supports has been developed by the Network of County and City Enterprise Boards. This website also contains an automated Business Planner to assist in compiling a business plan.

Visit Network of County and City Enterprise Boards Business Planner

Business Support

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Business Support

Cork City Enterprise Board offers the following support services to new and existing entrepreneurs:

Business Information and Advice
Thinking of starting your own business in Cork City? Free expert information and advice on all aspects of setting up a new business in Cork available from Cork City Enterprise Board.
Mentoring
The Cork Business Mentor Programme allows entrepreneurs in the early stages of starting their own business to benefit from having a temporary business adviser.
Training
Business courses for entrepreneurs in Cork - 'Start Your Own Business in Cork' course, Marketing, IT, Sage Computerised Accounts, Financial Management and many more courses from Cork City Enterprise Board.
Networking Programmes
Raise the profile of your business, make key business contacts and increase your turnover and customer base by participating in business networking groups in Cork with Cork City Enterprise Board.
Exhibition Opportunities
If you are a new or existing business owner / manager in Cork City and would like help in bringing your product / service to new markets, then CCEB may be able to help.
Aftercare Service
Once your business is up and running, CCEB offers a thorough system of follow-up and support to provide guidance and help you with any problems you may be experiencing.

Financial Assistance

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New Business Grants and Business Expansion Grants For Cork Entrepreneurs

Cork City Enterprise Board offers a range of financial assistance packages to qualifying businesses in Cork City. Our motivation in providing these incentives is to create employment, increase local competitiveness and decrease dependency on traditional economic sectors in the region.

New Business Grants For Small Businesses in Cork

If you are a small business start-up, we may be able to support you with one of our new business grants. These grants are specifically tailored to help business start-ups in Cork City face the financial challenges in the early years of business.

We provide the following new business grants for small business start-ups in Cork City:

Business Expansion Grants For Small Businesses in Cork

If you are a small business owner looking to grow you business, we may be able to support you with one of our business expansion grants. These grants are designed to help existing small business owners / managers take their business to the next level. Grant-aid can be awarded towards the cost of taking on additional members of staff, developing markets overseas and buying new equipment.

We provide the following business expansion grants for small businesses in Cork City:

If you are interested in applying for any of the above new business or business expansion grants, contact us today. Our Business Executives will be happy to discuss your application and help you fill out a grant application form.

Who are Cork City Enterprise Board

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Who are Cork City Enterprise Board?

Cork City Enterprise Board is responsible for supporting and promoting the economic growth and development of small businesses in Cork City.

We are one of 35 enterprise boards nationwide responsible for developing the micro-enterprise sector at local level. We provide a range of financial and business support packages to small start-up businesses as well as existing businesses looking to expand.

Who can you help

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What types of business can you help?

We provide a range of financial and business support packages to small start-up businesses as well as existing businesses looking to expand.

Eligible Projects:

In order to qualify for financial assistance from the Board, projects must adhere to all of the following criteria:

Prove that a market exists for the proposed product or service
Demonstrate potential for economic growth within a reasonable timeframe
Employ up to a maximum of ten people
Operate in the manufacturing or internationally traded services sectors
Located in Cork City
Have access to to other sources of funding
Possess the management and technical skills to successfully carry out the project

Ineligible Projects:

Primary agricultural production
Construction and associated trades
Importation and distribution businesses
Projects that are contrary to public policy
Retail outlets
Projects qualifying for funding from other state agencies or EU programmes
Projects that may displace existing jobs or businesses
Professional and consultancy services
Publishing and printing services
Property development projects
Projects employing more than 10 people
Projects that could progress without the support of the Board
Projects that contravene Irish and EU policy on sensitive sectors

Types of Assistance

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What types of assistance do you provide?

We offer a range of business support packages and financial assistance to qualifying businesses. Our supports can be divided into two categories:

Business support packages include business guidance & advice, mentoring, training and networking opportunities.
Financial assistance packages include capital grants, employment grants, feasibility study grants, equity and refundable grants.

Applying For Financial Aid

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How do I apply for financial assistance?

If you are interested in applying for financial assistance, you should firstly check the Board’s criteria for assistance to see if your business qualifies for funding. You should then complete the Grant Application Form and submit to:

Dave Cody / Adrienne Rodgers

Cork City Enterprise Board

1-2 Bruach na Laoi

Union Quay

Cork

Other Supports

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Non-financial support

Our business support service is available to new and existing small businesses regardless of whether they qualify for financial assistance or not.

This includes access to:

Business Guidance & Advice

Mentoring

Training

Networking Programmes

Exhibition Opportunities

Aftercare Service

Who We Support

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Do provide support for start-ups only?

No. We offer business support packages and financial aid to both start-ups as well as existing businesses looking to expand.

Criteria For Assistance

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How can I check if my business qualifies for funding?

Eligible Projects

In order to qualify for financial assistance from the Board, projects must adhere to all of the following criteria:

Prove that a market exists for the proposed product or service
Demonstrate potential for economic growth within a reasonable timeframe
Employ up to a maximum of ten people
Operate in the manufacturing or internationally traded services sectors
Located in Cork City
Have access to to other sources of funding
Possess the management and technical skills to successfully carry out the project

Ineligible Projects

Primary agricultural production
Construction and associated trades
Importation and distribution businesses
Projects that are contrary to public policy
Retail outlets
Projects qualifying for funding from other state agencies or EU programmes
Projects that may displace existing jobs or businesses
Professional and consultancy services
Publishing and printing services
Property development projects
Projects employing more than 10 people
Projects that could progress without the support of the Board
Projects that contravene Irish and EU policy on sensitive sectors

Selection Process

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How does CCEB select projects for funding?

The Evaluation Committee carefully assess each application for financial assistance. They then make a recommendation to the Board regarding:

(a) The amount of funding that should be granted

(b) The manner in which the funding should be made available

When assessing applications, the Evaluation Committee pay particular attention to:

Overall commercial viability of the project
Possible benefits to the local community e.g. employment
Access to other sources of funding by project promoter(s)
Cost effectiveness
Possible displacement of existing jobs / businesses

All projects must adhere to the Board's criteria for assistance in order to be considered for financial aid.

Confidentiality

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What is your policy on confidentiality?

Cork City Enterprise Board fully respects your right to privacy. We will not collect any personal information about you without your clear permission. Any personal information which you volunteer to us will be treated strictly in accordance with the Data Protection Acts, 1988 & 2003.

Business Structure

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How do I choose a legal structure for my business?

When setting up your own business, there are three possible structures you can choose to adopt:

Sole trader

This is the most straightforward way to set up your own business.

As a sole trader, you are the owner of the business
You are legally liable for the business and do not have any protection if the business fails
If the business is not successful, all of your assets (business & personal) can be used to pay off your creditors

Private limited company

A legal entity, separate from its shareholders
If the business fails the shareholders are only liable for any amount outstanding on the share capital they subscribe

Partnership

An agreement between two or more people to go into business together
If the business fails, each partner is liable for all losses
A ‘Deed of Partnership’ is usually drawn up outlining the obligations of each partner

Please note: it is highly recommended that you consult an accountant or solicitor before choosing an ownership structure for your business

Business Registration

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How do I register my business name?

You can register your business name with the Companies Registration Office (CRO). This can be done online at www.cro.ie

Register For Tax & VAT

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How do I register my business for tax and VAT?

All of the forms you are required to fill out are available to download on the website of the Revenue Commissioners at www.revenue.ie

Forms

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Publications & Downloads

Forms

Document	Date
Feasibility_Application_short.doc	2010-04-08	Download
Feasibility_Application_short.pdf	2010-04-08	Download
Mentor App. Form.pdf	2008-06-21	Download
Mentor_Application_Form.doc	2008-06-21	Download
Priming_Business_Expansion_Application_Short.doc	2010-04-08	Download
Priming_Business_Expansion_Application_Short.pdf	2010-04-08	Download
Trade Fair Application for Funding.doc	2010-12-08	Download
Training Registration Form.doc	2010-12-22	Download
Training Registration Form.pdf	2010-12-22	Download

Forms | Guidelines | Publications | Templates

Guidelines

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Publications & Downloads

Guidelines

Document	Date
Application Guidelines.pdf	2008-06-21	Download
Financial_Support_Available_PDF.sflb.pdf	2010-04-08	Download
Guidelines On Making A Financial Application.doc	2008-06-21	Download
Guidelines_on_Prepari_DCE95.pdf	2008-06-21	Download

Forms | Guidelines | Publications | Templates

Publications

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 01:00:00 +0100

Publications & Downloads

Publications

Document	Date
Annual Report 2005.pdf	2008-06-21	Download
Annual Report 2006.pdf	2008-08-29	Download
Annual Report 2007.pdf	2008-08-29	Download
Annual Report 2008.pdf	2009-10-13	Download
Annual Report 2009.pdf	2010-10-20	Download
CEB Action Plan T16.pdf	2008-06-21	Download
Emerge Harnessing the Potential Report .pdf	2008-06-21	Download
Tuarascáil Bhliantúil 2006.pdf	2008-08-29	Download
Tuarascáil Bhliantúil 2007.pdf	2008-08-29	Download
Tuarascáil Bhliantúil 2009.pdf	2010-10-20	Download
spring08newsletter.pdf	2008-06-21	Download
Public Service Agreement		Download
Annual Report 2010		Download
Business Continuity Planning		Download
Business Continuity Irish Version		Download

Forms | Guidelines | Publications | Templates

Templates

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 01:00:00 +0100

Publications & Downloads

Templates

Document	Date
Business_plan_template.doc	2008-06-21	Download
Cashflow Template.pdf	2008-06-21	Download
Cashflow_template.xls	2008-06-21	Download
businessplantemplate.pdf	2008-06-21	Download

Forms | Guidelines | Publications | Templates

NEW Business Planner Tool

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From Start to Business

          Cork City Enterprise Board has teamed up with nubie.com to offer one year’s free access to
          start up businesses in Cork City.

        Nubie.com is an online service which gives you step by step instructions on how to start, fund,
          manage and grow your business.

          Find Out More

          1. On who we are click here
          2. On the types of businesses we support, click here
          3. On the tools and services we offer click here

          Sign Up For Free
          Start your business today by clicking on the ‘Sign Up’ button below – your details will be sent
          to Cork City Enterprise Board for approval and when your request is accepted, you’ll receive a
          year of free access to nubie.com, the project plan for your business and the use of over 20
          applications to help you get your business up and running.

Prompt Payment Reports

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Prompt Payment Reports

Prompt Payment Report July - September 2011

Prompt Payment Report September - December 2011

Prompt Payment Report January - March 2012

Cork CEB Content Feed

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