Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 8 February 2024
200. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment whether any further particular incentives are being considered to encourage the entrepreneurial skills of younger people throughout the country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5978/24]
View answerThe Local Enterprise Offices (LEOs), play a key role as part of a supportive ecosystem to foster entrepreneurship within towns and communities across the country.
They are the ‘first stop shop’ providing expert advice and guidance, financial assistance, and offer a ‘signposting’ service for all Government supports available to business owners throughout the country.
The LEOs promote and celebrate entrepreneurial activity nationally through a number of programmes and campaigns throughout the year, which include the National Enterprise Awards, National Women's Enterprise Day, and the Student Enterprise Programme.
The Student Enterprise Programme is run by the LEOs in partnership with second level schools to give students the opportunity to set-up and run their own businesses, with the support of their local LEO. This is the largest enterprise programme for secondary schools in Ireland and its success is based on a collaborative approach between state bodies, Government Departments, local government, school management teams and teaching professionals. Over 25,000 students have taken part in the programme since the programme's inception.
My Department in collaboration with the LEOs is developing a new programme called Ireland's Best Emerging Entrepreneur. This programme will focus on encouraging new entrepreneurs, including young entrepreneurs. Inclusive entrepreneurship will be a key feature of this new programme.
Finally, I would recommend any prospective entrepreneur to get in touch with their Local Enterprise Office and avail of the assistance the LEOs can provide.
