Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 1 Dec 1993

Vol. 436 No. 5

Written Answers. - Establishment of New Businesses.

Ivor Callely

Question:

135 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Enterprise and Employment his views on whether proven successful enterpreneurs can be of assistance to people who wish to start up their own business; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Enterprise and Employment (Mr. Quinn)

I believe that successful entrepreneurs have a role to play in assisting persons who wish to start up in business and I am informed that the IDA and SFADCo have a scheme in operation for some time for this purpose.

The scheme is known as the Mentor Programme which has been in operation since 1989. It is designed to provide advice and support to existing and start-up companies on matters such as general management, strategic planning, financial structuring, marketing and distribution. The Programme embraces all industrial sectors ranging from food and electronics to printing and clothing so entrepreneurs from all sectoral divisions are needed.

The mentors themselves are retired or semi-retired business people who volunteer their experience and expertise for the benefit of small start-up enterprises. There are three mentor panels. These concentrate on start-ups, quality and marketing issues. The role of the mentors is to listen and advise, to help identify problems and suggest solutions.

Since commencement, the Programme has proved very successful with the 700 manufacturing or internationally traded companies which it has assisted.

The primary focus of the County Enterprise Boards initiative, which is currently being put in place, will be on proposals for start up jobs in enterprise, including projects in the manufacturing and internationally traded services area with a potential for employing up to ten people. In the setting up and development of these fledgling enterprises, the need will be greater than ever for entrepreneurs who are willing to be generous with their time, advice, expertise and experience. It is intended therefore that a Mentor Programme on the lines of that currently operated by IDA and SFADCo will form part of the support services provided by the Boards.