The advertisement on RTE radio the Deputy is referring to is part of an awareness campaign aimed at providing information to start-ups and SMEs of the more than 80 significant Government supports available to assist them in starting and growing their businesses. My Department decided to run an awareness campaign in response to a well-recognised demand for more information on Government supports for SMEs. Following a tender process in the Official Journal of the European Union, a successful tender was identified.
This awareness campaign, which was launched in February of this year, uses the web address www.actionplanforjobs.ie as a landing page for those interested in using the Government's online SME tool which helps explain what supports one might qualify for.
In addition to Chambers Ireland, the campaign uses other business representative groups like SFA and ISME, as well as experienced and young entrepreneurs who act as ambassadors to raise awareness of the supports available.
As announced at the time of the campaign launch a total budget of €250,000 plus VAT for the awareness campaign has been provided for within the Department's existing resources.