Local Enterprise Office Limerick Opens For Business

A range of new services for small businesses and start ups across Limerick was announced today by Minister for Finance, Michael Noonan TD, as he officially launched the Local Enterprise Office (LEO) Limerick.

Mr Noonan was joined by Deputy Mayor of Limerick, Cllr Joe Leddin, Cathaoirleach John Sheahan and Limerick City and County Manager, Conn Murray for the launch of LEO Limerick which will support those who want to start up or grow a business offering a wide range of experience, skills and services.

It will be the ‘first stop shop’ for all Government supports for anyone who wants to start or expand their business and create jobs in Limerick city and the towns and villages across the county.

Speaking at the launch, Conn Murray, Manager of Limerick City and County Councils, said the local authority is delighted to be providing this new and enhanced support for small businesses in Limerick.

“LEO Limerick will be the front line in delivering business growth and jobs, providing direct support and pulling together all the players – agencies, the local authority and the private sector – to support everyone with a good business idea and strengthen the enterprise sector in Limerick,” he said.

“We will develop local enterprise plans putting micro and small business at the heart of job creation locally. By bringing the functions of the former County and City Enterprise Boards into the new Limerick City and County Council structure, we are confident that we can offer a more streamlined service for clients. Our aim is to overcome the typical barriers to success that small businesses face such as management skills, access to finance or lack of marketing or planning skills”, added Mr Murray.

LEO Limerick will be based at 7/8 Patrick Street from 3rd June and will be under the direction of Eamon Ryan, Head of Local Enterprise.

“We will provide an extensive range of supports to the local business community, our confidential advisory service will be open to anyone exploring self employment or for those who are currently operating a business,” Mr Ryan explained.

“Business clients are welcome to discuss their venture with a business advisor and staff will be able to provide direction on supports such as training programmes, mentoring and business development initiatives. Programmes will all be tailored to local needs and workshops on marketing, financial management and business planning are just some of the initiatives that are planned over the coming months. LEO Limerick will also provide a range of financial supports designed to help with the establishment and growth of small businesses with full information on all our services available on our website.”

New Protocols have been developed with key agencies, such as Revenue, Department of Social Protection, Department of Education and the Education and Training Boards, Skillnets, Microfinance Ireland and the Credit Review Office to ensure Limerick clients have access to all Government supports.

As well as advice and direct supports LEO Limerick will promote a pro-enterprise culture locally, by organising enterprise events, supporting local business networks and working with Limerick Chamber and other organisations. Student enterprise programmes will also be available in primary and secondary schools in the Limerick area.

The Local Enterprise Office Limerick has the full support of Enterprise Ireland and other agencies that support business. Enterprise Ireland’s considerable expertise nationwide in supporting entrepreneurs, innovation and exports – and growing small local businesses into outward looking international companies - will be available through LEO Limerick.

For information on all the services offered by LEO Limerick, you can visit www.localenterprise.ie/limerick ; email localenterprise@limerick.ie or telephone 061-407499.

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