What Is The Cork Business Mentor Programme?

The Cork Business Mentor Programme provides small business owners / managers with a temporary business adviser, known as a ‘mentor’. The mentor is an experienced local business person willing to help entrepreneurs overcome the challenges faced in the early years of business. The objective of the programme is to give new and expanding companies a better chance of survival and growth. It is an ideal opportunity for new owners / managers to benefit from the experience of more established business professionals.

How Does The Programme Work?

1. Cork City Enterprise Board has access to the Enterprise Ireland Mentor Panel and has also compiled an independent panel of business mentors. Entrepreneurs are carefully matched with the mentor we feel is best suited to help them achieve their business objectives.
2. Before commencing work, each mentor is required to sign a confidentiality agreement. This ensures that any information divulged will be kept in the strictest confidence.
3. The mentor is then assigned to work with the entrepreneur for a specific number of hours for the duration of the project.
4. The role of the mentor is to listen, advise, identify problems and suggest possible solutions regarding the business. He / she typically advises on areas such as:

• General management
• Marketing
• Financial structuring
• Strategic planning

The mentor does not however become involved in the day-to-day running of the business. Their role is strictly to act as an independent and impartial business adviser.

Who Qualifies For The Programme?

The Cork Business Mentor Programme is open to local entrepreneurs looking to start up a new enterprise as well as owners / managers interested in expanding their existing business.

How Do I Apply?

If you are interested in applying for the Cork Business Mentor Programme, please download & complete the Mentor Application Form and submit to: