Competition entrants came from the NFC’s two business start-up programs, Franchise Accelerated Start-Up Training (FAST) and the Limerick Enterprise Acceleration Programme (LEAP). Both of which are now open to recruitment.
Dorothy Quinn of DeeQue Management scooped top prize in The National Franchise Centre (NFC) annual business plan competition. A total of three awards were sponsored by AIB, The Discovery Partnership, LIT and Limerick Chamber - the value of which totalled in excess of €20,000.
Other winners included Keith O’Neil & Shane McCarthy of Bluechief Solutions who secured second prize and the One to Watch competition title; and Keith Mc Guigan of Market Direct won the third prize.
Competition entrants came from the NFC’s two business start-up programs, Franchise Accelerated Start-Up Training (FAST) and the Limerick Enterprise Acceleration Programme (LEAP). Both of which are now open to recruitment.
These programs are run at the Centre, which was established in 2010 by LIT in partnership with Limerick Chamber.
FAST and LEAP offer comprehensive and inclusive enterprise training, covering all aspects of running/owning and managing a successful business. Participants receive mentorship and free designated work space at the NFC, including a pc, phone, meeting rooms and high speed broadband.
The NFC is requesting applications on/before May 9th, and for those that embark on FAST or LEAP, it is expected that these individuals will be running a business or have decided upon a venture towards the end of the year- it promises to once again be an exciting time for the NFC!
Speaking about the competition, Dr Fergal Barry, Vice-President of Research, Enterprise & Development at LIT said "The NFC is an excellent example of how 3rd level institutions can collaborate in offering pragmatic supports. This competition is part of a suite of offerings through our enterprise ladder and our activities include enterprise development programs, mentorship, profiling, networking and financial supports- all of which are designed to practically assist people in setting up and running their own venture. Furthermore, our partners, guest speakers and sponsors demonstrate the willingness of the greater business community to help such ventures succeed, create jobs and better the economy. This is certainly a time for entrepreneurs to avail of opportunities and the immense goodwill of businesses and organisations".
Commenting on the programs, Maria Kelly CEO of Limerick Chamber noted "the NFC is the first of its kind in Europe, utilising the Franchise model to support businesses in an enterprise environment. As a best practice approach, the model provides a tool for systemisation and expansion of indigenous businesses; and for start up’s, it offers a reduced level of risk and support structures that enable individuals to be in business for themselves but not by themselves. I would like to congratulate those who have won prizes in the 3rd annual NFC Business Plan Competition- Limerick Chamber is proud to support you and all of our NFC graduates!"
The NFC continues to receive interest both locally and nationally, and has a strong focus on developing links with the franchise community.
In addition to existing activities, 2013 has already seen the development of a new program Franchise START (catered to potential Franchisors/ distributors/ licensors) and the hugely successful National Franchise Day in conjunction with the Irish Franchise Association.
For further information on any of the programs offered through the Centre, please contact Martina on 061 448550 / mmcgrath@limerickchamber.ie or log onto www.nationalfranchisecentre.ie