Support is available through FÁS and CERT by way of training programmes and employment schemes for persons, including women, interested in setting up small businesses.
Training in enterprise and co-operative development is provided by FÁS which also operates an integrated enterprise programme. This provides a full range of support services to individuals and to groups who are setting up new businesses, including short specific training programmes, advice and finance. The programme includes business appraisal training during which training allowances are paid, followed by technical training, income support in the form of enterprise payments through the enterprise scheme, enterprise workshops and access to business advice.
The enterprise scheme provides payments of £40 per week for self-employed people without dependants, and £65 per week per persons with dependants for up to 40 weeks. The business being established under the enterprise scheme must be potentially viable and be full-time and independent.