Carlow Council launch new programme and are seeking businesses to build connections in Manchester

Carlow County Council's Local Enterprise Office have launched a new programme to help facilitate trade relationships with local Carlow business to those in Manchester, with the new 'Export to Manchester' programme.

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Eight highly subsidised places will be made available on the programme to suitable companies. The programme will develop their confidence in the field of exporting through attending 2 very practical half day export development workshops, working with a specialist export mentor to identify suitable export opportunities for the businesses and spending 3 days on the ground in Manchester as part of a group trade mission in early March 2025. Selected companies with less than 10 employees may also be eligible for a TAME Grant to support the cost of developing materials for the trip.

Expressions of interest are now being sought from Carlow businesses interested in participating. Applications are encouraged from businesses based in Carlow,
trading for at least one year, involved in manufacturing or tradable services of a product or service that is considered to be exportable and currently securing no more than 30% of turnover outside Ireland. The cost to participate is €250 per business selected which is heavily subsidised.
Speaking at the programme launch Cathaoirleach of Carlow County Council, Cllr. Fergal Browne said "Carlow businesses with export potential should consider
expanding their market to Manchester. By leveraging strong trade ties between Ireland and Britain, Carlow businesses can capitalise on new opportunities and boost their export performance."