Podcasts about irish smes

Venture capital funding into Irish SMEs soared to €532.8m in the first quarter of 2025, according to the Irish Venture Capital Association VenturePulse survey published today in association with William Fry. This was a record for a first quarter and represents a year-to-year increase of over 100%. But Mr Gerry Maguire, chairperson, Irish Venture Capital Association said: "It should be noted that over 80% of the total in this quarter was due to deals worth over €10m." He said that the picture for start-ups raising under €3m was less rosy and this may reflect an imbalance in the market. The first quarter excluded the impact of US "Liberation Day" tariffs on 2nd April. Mr Maguire said that anecdotal evidence suggested that the uncertainty and caution caused by this, especially amongst international investors, is likely to show up in following quarters. Sarah-Jane Larkin, director general, IVCA said that funding by international venture capital into Irish companies rose to 82% of the total, compared to 71% in the same quarter last year. "This is a doubled edged sword. While it reflects the high quality and potential of Irish tech firms and demand by overseas investors, it also reflects Ireland Inc's vulnerability to international influences if the tide goes out." Deals in the €30m+ category grew by nearly 90% to €296.8m. Funding in the €10m-€30m range rose by 184% to €132m. Deals between €5m-€10m grew 138% to €43.8m. Funding in the €3-€5m increased 346% to €35m from €7.8m the previous quarter. Deals in the €1m-€3m category fell by 5% to €21.6m. Deals under €1m fell by 42% to €3.6m from €6.2m the previous year. There was also a big fall in the number of deals in this category, down from 21 to six. Seed funding, or first rounds raised by SMEs, marked time, falling by 3% to €39.3m from €40.4m the previous year. The total number of deals in the first quarter was 43, slightly ahead of the same quarter last year (41). Top five deals in the first quarter were lifescience company, Let's get Checked which raised €150m. Cybersecurity firm, Tines raised €115m followed by AI company, Protex AI (€31.8m), drone delivery firm, Manna (€27m) and medical technology manufacturer, Perfuze (€22m). More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help promote your business. Why not drop us a line at Info@IrishTechNews.ie now to find out more about how we can help you reach our audience. You can also find and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat.

CyberQuest, a joint venture between Data Edge, REIM Training Solutions, and CJHNetwork, is pleased to announce a free, one-hour cybersecurity webinar for Irish SMEs. NIS2 & cybersecurity - What Irish SMEs need to know now This interactive online event is specifically designed for SME leaders, IT decision-makers, and business owners seeking to improve their cybersecurity posture while navigating the upcoming NIS2 directive. Why attend? Learn about real-life cyberattacks and vulnerabilities experienced by Irish SMEs. Get clarity on the NIS2 directive and whether it applies to your business. Discover how to access funding and Enterprise Ireland grants to support your cybersecurity initiatives. Explore free and affordable tools other SMEs are using to protect their networks. Ask your questions directly in an interactive session with experts. Speaker panel: Eimear Murphy, Founder & Director, REIM Training Solutions Sandra Richardson, Director of Training, REIM Training Solutions Colm Hyland, Owner, CJHNetwork Omer Mukhtar, Cybersecurity Specialist, Data Edge "Cybersecurity often gets sidelined in busy SMEs, especially when business owners wear multiple hats," says Eimear Murphy. "This session is about making cybersecurity manageable and showing that you don't need to be an expert to protect your business." Sandra Richardson adds: "We want to break NIS2 down into something understandable and actionable. It's about giving SMEs the tools, support, and confidence to act." Colm Hyland will share insights on aligning cybersecurity strategies with business goals while working within the real-world constraints of SME life. Omer Mukhtar offers an industry-wide perspective, drawing on his strong background in defensive security. Cybersecurity doesn't have to be complicated and in this session, Omer will share practical insights from recent cyber reviews using tools like CyberScope and Link-Live, offering actionable steps any business can take to reduce cyber risk using the right tools and methodology. Participants will also have the opportunity to book a no-cost cybersecurity review to identify risks in their infrastructure. Register now: https://reimtrainingsolutions.com/cyberquest-webinar/ See more stories here.

Did you know that the term 'Sustainability Examples' is searched 170,000 times globally per month (circa 5,000 in Ireland per month). Did you also know that 99.8% of Irish businesses are SMEs. Individually, they have small carbon footprints, but collectively, they account for 38% of Ireland's CO2 emissions (63% in Europe). While many SMEs are taking action, they struggle to gain awareness, recognition and measurable commercial advantages for taking action. This is why Andrew Sheehan built a sustainability engagement platform (sustainabilityexamples.com) to change that. Ronan recently spoke to Andrew about his background, what sustainabilityexamples.com does, three ways of changing behaviour and more .More about sustainabilityexamples.com:There are two types of users on the platform: Champions and Doers. The platform helps Irish SMEs driving climate action (doers) gain more visibility, greater recognition and a faster ROI for taking action by providing a platform where they can launch, share, and compete for prominence on the homepage leaderboard through community engagement with climate-engaged supporters (champions). By providing impact leaders with measurable recognition and data-backed commercial advantages for launching examples of their initiatives and solutions on the platform, the platform's purpose is to encourage more SMEs to also start taking action. 

Did you know that the term 'Sustainability Examples' is searched 170,000 times globally per month (circa 5,000 in Ireland per month). Did you also know that 99.8% of Irish businesses are SMEs. Individually, they have small carbon footprints, but collectively, they account for 38% of Ireland's CO2 emissions (63% in Europe). While many SMEs are taking action, they struggle to gain awareness, recognition and measurable commercial advantages for taking action. This is why Andrew Sheehan built a sustainability engagement platform (sustainabilityexamples.com) to change that. Ronan recently spoke to Andrew about his background, what sustainabilityexamples.com does, three ways of changing behaviour and more. More about sustainabilityexamples.com: There are two types of users on the platform: Champions and Doers. The platform helps Irish SMEs driving climate action (doers) gain more visibility, greater recognition and a faster ROI for taking action by providing a platform where they can launch, share, and compete for prominence on the homepage leaderboard through community engagement with climate-engaged supporters (champions). By providing impact leaders with measurable recognition and data-backed commercial advantages for launching examples of their initiatives and solutions on the platform, the platform's purpose is to encourage more SMEs to also start taking action. See more stories here. More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help promote your business. Why not drop us a line at Info@IrishTechNews.ie now to find out more about how we can help you reach our audience. You can also find and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat.

Businesses in Ireland are only starting to scratch the surface with how they can use technology to deliver their services and do more with less .One of the companies helping businesses discover that is Assiduous, which just secured one million euro in funding to deliver its services. Speaking to Emmet on the show this morning was their CEO Fergal Meegan.

From startup to the silver screen! Leah Fletcher of deDANÚ shares how her Irish wellness brand landed a starring role in Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy. Midlands food and drink goes national! Bernie Everard previews the Midlands Food and Drink Networks debut at CATEX 2025 and profiles the local producers making waves in Ireland's food scene. Cost of living hits Irish SMEs hardest—how can fintech help? Niall Mac an tSionnaigh, SumUp's CEO for Ireland, unpacks key survey insights and digital solutions for small businesses. And, why is Chris Ball of RBK finding himself in very cold water in February?

Funds invested into Irish technology SMEs reached a new high of €1.48 billion in 2024, or 9% up on the previous year, which itself was a record, according to the Irish Venture Capital Association (IVCA) VenturePulse report, published today in association with William Fry. The association, which marks its 40th anniversary this year, also reported a record fourth quarter in 2024 of €535m, 162% up on the same period the previous year. Mr Gerry Maguire, chairperson, Irish Venture Capital Association, commented: "Growth in the year and final quarter was driven by big investments which demonstrates that Ireland has the capacity to create and scale world class tech firms." However, he described the funding environment for firms looking to raise less than €5m as "choppy". "Deals right across all sizes below €5m fell during 2024 and in quarter four." Artificial Intelligence (AI) accounted for over €100m of the total VC investment into Irish firms last year. Mr Maguire said that the recent impact of Chinese operator DeepSeek is likely to increase, not decrease, appetite by VC investors in the sector. "The arrival of players such as DeepSeek has the potential to boost margins and decrease development costs for AI start-ups. We are potentially witnessing the democratisation and ease of participation by AI developers, in the same way that Software-as-a-Service or cloud computing transformed and disrupted the traditional software model." He pointed out that the DeepSeek-driven sell-off of Nasdaq stocks mostly affected big chip makers or AI platforms of Google, Microsoft and others, not areas in which most Irish AI firms compete. "There is massive potential in AI applications across healthcare, climate, education and other sectors, and this will be boosted by lower costs of development which represents a major opportunity for Ireland." Sarah-Jane Larkin, director general of IVCA, said that fourth quarter and annual data emphasised the potential for the new Government to support investment in early-stage companies. "AI company Nuritas, for example, raised €42m in quarter four, but its first round back in 2015 was just over €100,000. Co Louth-based company XOCEAN raised €115m in this quarter and is now a world leader in sea drone technology." She said that current global economic and political turbulence, largely driven by the new administration in the US, means that the Government's latest €250m Seed & Venture Capital Scheme 2025-2029 "couldn't come at a better time", with applications for the first call of up to €100m to be submitted to Enterprise Ireland by the end of this week (February 20). "This is very welcome as funding for deals below €5m fell sharply across the quarter and the year." Deals in the €3-€5m range fell by 37% to €82m for the year and by 56% to €17.6m for the fourth quarter of 2024, compared to the same period the previous year. Funding in the €1-€3m category fell by 24% to €105m for the year and by 63% to €23.6m for the quarter. Investments below €1m declined by 4% to €28.9m for the year and by 19% to €7m for the quarter. Seed funding, or first rounds raised by SMEs, decreased by 4% annually to €127m and by 55% to €17.9m in the quarter. The top five deals in quarter four 2024 were: Dublin headquartered medical device company, Fire1 (€116m); Louth based sea drone developer, XOCEAN (€115m); Dublin headquartered travel software firm, Nuitée (€46m); Dublin headquartered AI company, Nuritas (€42m) and Dublin based fintech firm, NomuPay (€35.9m). Life sciences accounted for 37% (€552.9m) of the total raised in 2024, followed by Software: 13% (€185m); Envirotech: 11% (€161.7m); Fintech: 8% (€119m) and Data: 8% (€115m). 217 deals were completed in 2024, similar to the previous year (216). "In view of global headwinds, we should be ambitious and aiming to double this," added Sarah-Jane Larkin. More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You ca...

Bord na Móna's latest Gender Pay Gap Report reveals a leadership shift—Sharon Doyle, Head of HR & Corporate Affairs, discusses their commitment to diversity, female leadership, and workplace inclusion. With cycling to work more popular than ever, Eoin Coughlan of Outdoorsy.ie explains how the Cycle to Work scheme is making commuting greener, healthier, and more affordable. How will Waterways Ireland's new Craft Centre of Excellence in Tullamore preserve heritage craftsmanship and boost regional development? Patrick Harkin joins us to discuss this major investment. Tariffs, trade wars and immediate effects on markets and currencies - should Irish SMEs fear Trump's tariffs? John Finn of The Treasury Hub offers an expert view!

Irish organisations have been awarded more than €836 million in funding from the EU's Horizon Europe 2021 -2027 research and innovation programme. The current seven-year programme aims to support organisations to tackle global challenges, conduct groundbreaking multidisciplinary research and boost the EU's industrial competitiveness and growth. Ireland's overall national drawdown target is €1.5bn or 1.6% of Horizon Europe's €93.5bn budget from 2021-2027. To date, Irish organisations have been granted €836.4m which equates to 2.14% of the €39 billion awarded so far, showing that Ireland is tracking ahead of its target at just past the halfway point of the programme. Irish organisations awarded €836 million by EU Horizon Europe The €836 million secured by Irish organisations is distributed across 1,295 projects involving 487 individual Irish organisations and businesses. Almost half of those 487 organisations (47%) have been awarded more than a quarter of a million euros, while one in five have secured greater than €1 million. Successful applicants from Ireland are drawn from a range of sectors and include higher education institutions, research-performing organisations, public organisations and SMEs. 217 Irish SMEs have been awarded €233m under Horizon Europe and Ireland ranks at number four amongst the 27 EU member states for SME participation in projects. The top three biggest funding successes for Ireland under the Horizon Europe framework programme areas are: 1) the European Research Council's grants for academic researchers - €131m 2) the Digital, Industry & Space programme area - €122m 3) the Food, Bioeconomy, Natural Resources, Agriculture and Environment programme area - €121m The figures were announced today as more than 600 delegates including EU member state representatives, policymakers and industry leaders from the research and business community attend the Horizon Europe Impact Conference at the Convention Centre in Dublin. This in-person conference will highlight Ireland's success in Horizon 2020 and Horizon Europe by showcasing the benefits that participation from small and large enterprises, academic researchers and other stakeholders has produced. Speaking at the conference, Colm O'Reardon, Secretary General at the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science said, "This is a welcome opportunity to take stock at the halfway point of Horizon Europe, to reflect on our successes so far and look forward to Ireland leading and participating in impactful research and innovation projects with our international partners." Enterprise Ireland leads the Horizon Europe National Support Network which aims to promote and secure funding for Irish research projects. Opening the conference Micol Martinelli, National Director for Horizon Europe in Ireland, welcomed the European delegation to Dublin and commended the talent and calibre of innovation coming out of Ireland in recent years. "Ireland's overall success in the Horizon Europe programme, supported by Enterprise Ireland and nine other government agencies and departments, shines a spotlight on the innovation capability of Irish organisations which are competing and winning on a pan-European level. This EU funding is instrumental in providing critical support to enable researchers to further develop their innovations which will influence and strengthen EU policy for the good of future generations." "However, funding awards are not the only success story - the collaboration and building of partnerships and relationships with organisations in other countries is a key driver of impact for research and innovation overall. To unleash Ireland's full potential, we want to encourage and facilitate newcomers and to build on Irish participation for the remainder of the Horizon Europe programme and beyond." The Horizon Europe Impact Conference will cover the three pillars of Horizon Europe's focus including research excellence, researcher mobility a...

Galvia AI has announced that eligible Irish SMEs can now avail of support from Enterprise Ireland's Digital Discovery grant for its new AI-Accelerator programme. The Galvia AI-Accelerator is a 5-week, hands-on programme, with the first cohort beginning in January 2025, and is designed to help Irish SMEs across Ireland integrate transformative AI solutions into their businesses. The company is expected to run one Accelerator per quarter, which costs a total of €4,995. Applications are open for SMEs in all sectors across all of Ireland and can be made at: http://www.galvia.ai/accelerator. Tap into the potential of AI The AI-Accelerator is designed to simplify AI technologies and help SMEs from all across Ireland to tap into the potential of their data by offering practical, cost-effective solutions through the power of AI technology. The AI-Accelerator will be delivered in a hybrid format at Galway's innovation hub Platform94, and includes options of virtual sessions and in-person workshops. Key partners for the programme include Platform94 and law firm Byrne Wallace LLP, who will deliver workshops on the legal implications of AI. Participating SMEs will collaborate with the programme's experts to develop machine learning models and applications tailored to their specific needs, using their own data to create custom solutions that generate revenue, drive engagement and ensure sustainable growth. By the end of the programme, participants will have a clear understanding of what to do with their data and a strategic plan of how to integrate AI into their business. The aim of Enterprise Ireland's Digital Discovery grant is to incentivise and support companies to introduce new digital technologies and solutions into their operations. Eligible companies must be supported by Enterprise Ireland, and can now apply for 80% net funding from Enterprise Ireland to participate in the Galvia AI-Accelerator. Commenting on the announcement, John Clancy, CEO of Galvia said: "We are hugely appreciative and delighted that Enterprise Ireland is offering support to Irish SMEs that wish to participate in our AI-Accelerator programme." "Integrating new technologies can be daunting, but our mission is to show that organisations don't need huge resources to unlock the power of their data. Our program will guide participants toward a better understanding of how to leverage their data effectively and strategically, providing a clear pathway for integrating AI into their operations." Ruairí Ó hAilín from Enterprise Ireland said: "Enterprise Ireland is committed to supporting Irish-owned companies to start, grow, scale and to achieve their global ambition. Helping companies further understand the capabilities of digital tools such as AI, as they seek to introduce new technologies and solutions into their businesses is key to driving sustainable growth and competitiveness in export markets. We encourage all companies to explore how digitalisation can help their business to grow, including businesses who are eligible to utilise the Digital Discovery grant."

Galvia AI, one of Ireland's leading AI companies, has announced that eligible Irish SMEs can now avail of support from Enterprise Ireland's Digital Discovery grant for its new AI-Accelerator programme. The Galvia AI-Accelerator is a 5-week, hands-on programme, with the first cohort beginning in January 2025, and is designed to help Irish SMEs across Ireland integrate transformative AI solutions into their businesses. The company is expected to run one Accelerator per quarter, which costs a total of €4,995. Applications are open for SMEs in all sectors across all of Ireland and can be made at: http://www.galvia.ai/accelerator. Tap into the potential of AI The AI-Accelerator is designed to simplify AI technologies and help SMEs from all across Ireland to tap into the potential of their data by offering practical, cost-effective solutions through the power of AI technology. The AI-Accelerator will be delivered in a hybrid format at Galway's innovation hub Platform94, and includes options of virtual sessions and in-person workshops. Key partners for the programme include Platform94 and law firm Byrne Wallace LLP, who will deliver workshops on the legal implications of AI. Participating SMEs will collaborate with the programme's experts to develop machine learning models and applications tailored to their specific needs, using their own data to create custom solutions that generate revenue, drive engagement and ensure sustainable growth. By the end of the programme, participants will have a clear understanding of what to do with their data and a strategic plan of how to integrate AI into their business. The aim of Enterprise Ireland's Digital Discovery grant is to incentivise and support companies to introduce new digital technologies and solutions into their operations. Eligible companies must be supported by Enterprise Ireland, and can now apply for 80% net funding from Enterprise Ireland to participate in the Galvia AI-Accelerator. Commenting on the announcement, John Clancy, CEO of Galvia said: "We are hugely appreciative and delighted that Enterprise Ireland is offering support to Irish SMEs that wish to participate in our AI-Accelerator programme." "Integrating new technologies can be daunting, but our mission is to show that organisations don't need huge resources to unlock the power of their data. Our program will guide participants toward a better understanding of how to leverage their data effectively and strategically, providing a clear pathway for integrating AI into their operations." Ruairí Ó hAilín from Enterprise Ireland said: "Enterprise Ireland is committed to supporting Irish-owned companies to start, grow, scale and to achieve their global ambition. Helping companies further understand the capabilities of digital tools such as AI, as they seek to introduce new technologies and solutions into their businesses is key to driving sustainable growth and competitiveness in export markets. We encourage all companies to explore how digitalisation can help their business to grow, including businesses who are eligible to utilise the Digital Discovery grant." See more stories here.

Peter studied Business & Law in UCD, trained with KPMG Corporate Finance in Dublin and worked in Private Equity Investment in London with Downing Development Capital. He returned to Ireland to join his family's business, Greenscene, and managed the sale of the business to, private equity backed, MCR Group in 2023. He now advises other Irish SMEs and their founders seeking an exit or funding, through his consultancy business BCOR Advisory. www.bcor-advisory.com Peter is an elected representative for Wicklow, with Fine Gael, having successfully contested the 2024 local elections. He recently won a Wicklow Senior Football Championship with Tinahely, where he lives. Peter left CWC in 2014.

A ransomware epidemic threatens to engulf Irish SMEs. Not only that but the rise of AI and deepfakes means businesses can be fooled into costly fraud and phishing attacks. Speaking ahead of the IRISSCON 2024 conference on the 6th of November, Jake Moore, one of Europe's leading data security experts warns that Irish businesses are vulnerable and need to be wary of cybercriminals lying in wait. Visit www.thinkbusiness.ie for more news and supports for start-ups and SMEs in Ireland. If you want to start and grow a business, ThinkBusiness.

eir evo, Ireland's number one telecommunications and ICT solutions provider, has unveiled new research highlighting the strong connection between AI adoption, technological integration, and business success among small and medium-sized enterprises. The study, supported by Microsoft Ireland, surveyed 400 SME companies across the country, revealing key insights into how advanced technologies like AI are transforming businesses. Key Findings: AI Adoption and Technological Integration 35% of SMEs have already adopted AI with an additional 48% planning to implement it within the next 12 months, demonstrating growing interest in harnessing the potential of artificial intelligence. Key areas where AI is expected to make an impact include Customer Service (32%), IT (27%), and Sales (14%). AI Driving Efficiency and Time Savings AI is also seen as a major time-saving tool for SMEs. According to the research, 32% of respondents believe that AI could reduce administrative tasks by 3-4 hours per week, with an average saving of 3.8 hours per week anticipated across the board. A further 23% estimate AI could cut over 6 hours of administrative work each week, enabling businesses to focus on higher-value activities. This time-saving benefit could redirect up to €5.1 billion per year into alternative business areas. Cybersecurity and Digital Preparedness Cybersecurity remains a critical area of concern, with 17% of businesses having experienced a cyber-attack in the past 12 months. Despite this, 51% of respondents feel somewhat or highly prepared to manage cybersecurity threats, while 49% feel underprepared or very underprepared.Of those that experienced an attack, 16% lost between €5,000 - €20,000, with 2% losing over €20,000. Challenges to AI and Technological Adoption While the benefits of AI are clear, the research also highlights barriers to adoption. A lack of understanding (26%) and investment (23%) were cited as the top obstacles to AI implementation, alongside concerns over security (20%). Similarly, when it comes to investing in new technology, the upfront cost of investment was a barrier for over half (52%) of respondents, with ongoing costs and uncertainty around the business benefits also cited as key challenges. Geographical Disparities in AI Adoption and Digital Preparedness The research also highlights regional differences in technology adoption and digital readiness. Urban businesses, particularly in Dublin and larger counties, are leading in AI implementation, with 52% having already adopted AI compared to just 35% in rural areas. The research also highlights digital skills as a significant concern for many Irish SMEs, with 24% reporting that their employees lack the necessary digital capabilities for future business growth. This figure rises sharply to 64% in rural areas, where SMEs also face greater challenges around investment costs and understanding new technologies. These findings underscore the need for targeted support to bridge the digital divide and help rural businesses adapt. Commenting on the research, Martin Wells, Managing Director at eir evo, said: "Our research demonstrates a clear link between the adoption of advanced technologies, such as cloud-based services and AI, and improved business performance among Irish SMEs. It's encouraging to see that many businesses are embracing supportive technologies, but there are still barriers to overcome, particularly around investment and knowledge. "The study sheds light on the vital role AI and technology integration play in the success of SMEs, offering valuable insights for businesses looking to strengthen their digital strategies, and business performance, in the years to come." Jonathan Eustace, Small Midmarket and Corporate Lead at Microsoft Ireland, said: "Digital transformation is reshaping industries, making AI and cloud services essential for SMEs to stay competitive. eir evo's research highlights how technology can drive efficiencies and enhance business op...

Interested in exploring the space economy? Padraig Doolan, Enterprise Ireland's National Delegate to the European Space Agency - ESA, will highlight how Irish businesses can engage with ESA initiatives and funding opportunities. Is your business struggling to secure funding from traditional banks? Gary Grimes from Simpli Finance discusses alternative, flexible finance options for Irish SMEs. From peer-to-peer lending to merchant cash advances, Gary will share insights on how businesses can access diverse finance solutions tailored to their needs and avoid the limitations of conventional banking. Employers can learn about the financial and other supports available to recruit and retain newly arrived individuals from Ukrainian and other communities. This special event on 24th October is presented by the Department of Social Protection and Laois Community Integration Forum. Why has a midlands farmer completed the longest Malin to Mizen cycle?

In this episode, we meet Jean McCabe, founder and owner of Willow boutique in Ennis and CEO of Retail Excellence Ireland. Jean shares her story of two decades in business, how Irish SMEs are navigating the ever-changing world of retail and how digital insights are helping to keep retailers competitive. We'll also get expert insight from Orla Bowers, Head of Clover in EMEA and partner with AIB Merchant Services on payments technology.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Recently 22 Irish SMEs graduated from a decarbonisation pilot, which was a collaboration between Business in the Community Ireland, Bank of Ireland, the Musgrave Group and SSE Airtricity. We talk to some of the SMEs who graduated from the programme about what they learned and how they will go about decarbonising their businesses. Visit www.thinkbusiness.ie for more news and supports for start-ups and SMEs in Ireland. If you want to start and grow a business, ThinkBusiness.

Galvia AI, one of Ireland's leading AI companies, has announced the launch of the new Galvia AI Adoption Accelerator Programme designed to make artificial intelligence (AI) accessible to SMEs in all sectors across Ireland. Hosted at Galway's innovation hub Platform94, the 5-week intensive programme, which will begin in January 2025, is designed to simplify AI technologies and help Irish SMEs tap into the potential of their data by offering practical, cost-effective solutions for leveraging AI technology. The Accelerator will be delivered in a hybrid format, including options of virtual sessions and in-person workshops at Platform94. Key partners for the programme include Platform94 and law firm Byrne Wallace LLP, who will deliver workshops on the legal implications of AI. Interested businesses are encouraged to sign up as early as possible to the Accelerator programme to ensure their place in the programme. Applications are open for SMEs in all sectors and can be made at: http://www.galvia.ai/accelerator. Participants will collaborate with AI experts to develop machine learning models and applications tailored to their specific needs, using their own data to create custom solutions that generate revenue, drive engagement and ensure sustainable growth. By the end of the programme, participants will have a clear understanding of what to do with their data and a strategic plan of how to integrate AI into their business. John Clancy, CEO and Founder of Galvia AI said: "We believe AI isn't just an indulgence reserved for big-budget tech businesses. It can and should make a real, tangible difference for SMEs, which are the core of the economy." "At Galvia AI, we are committed to breaking down the perceived barriers around AI adoption by offering practical, innovative and scalable solutions that fit seamlessly into existing systems. Together with our partners, we are very proud to launch the Galvia AI accelerator programme, which will equip participants with the knowledge and tools to stay ahead of industry changes and maintain a competitive edge." Marie Donnellan, CEO of Platform94 said: "We are delighted to host the Galvia AI accelerator at Platform94, and provide a welcome environment for participants to connect with like-minded business leaders, industry experts and local developers. As advocates for scaling companies with global ambitions, we see the potential of artificial intelligence across all industries, and fully support Galvia AI's mission to help Irish enterprises future-proof their businesses." See more stories here.

Venture capital funding of €494m into Irish SMEs in the second quarter was the second highest on record, up 7% on the same period last year, according to the Irish Venture Capital Association VenturePulse survey published today in association with William Fry. But with the exception of seed funding, the data reports a gap in deals under €10m. Overall funding for the half year fell by almost a quarter (22%) to €752.7m. Gerry Maguire, chairperson, Irish Venture Capital Association, said that one needed to drill down into the figures to get the true state of affairs for Irish SMEs looking to expand and raise finance. "Deals in the €5-10m range fell by 44% to €27m in the second quarter, compared to the same time last year. This worrying trend continued right across all deal sizes from €1-€5m. It suggests that companies are doing well raising early stage seed funding but are struggling to kick on in the next vital growth phase." Mr Maguire said that while the number and value of deals in the €10m plus range had performed well in the second quarter, over 90% of this funding came from international investors. "This is a testament to the quality and ambition of Irish companies, but points to the importance of having Irish funds of scale that can co-invest or lead these rounds. This really highlights the need to increase the availability of growth finance from local sources." Sarah-Jane Larkin, director general of the IVCA, said that thanks to long standing Government policies supporting early stage funding, the recovery in seed funding had continued from the first quarter of this year. Seed funding, or first rounds raised by SMEs, in quarter two rose by 18% to €53.2m, compared to the same period last year. Seed funding for the half year rose by 79% to €93.6m. "While seed funding remains robust, the IVCA is looking forward to the report of the implementation committee set up by Peter Burke TD, Minister for Enterprise, Trade & Employment, on measures to assist these exciting, high potential start-ups take their next steps through greater access to scaling finance." The life sciences sector with €297m (39%) led the way in funding for the half year followed by envirotech (13%); regtech (12%); fintech and software (both 9%). The top five deals in quarter two worth over €30m were regulatory compliance company, Corlytics (undisclosed amount); life sciences firm, SynOx Therapeutics (€70.3m); fintech company, AccountsIQ (€60m); cybersecurity specialist, Tines (€50m) and marine technology firm, XOCEAN (€30m).

On the back of a very successful first three years, Three Ireland has today announced it is once again investing €100,000 into a bursary fund for SMEs as part of its Grants for Small Businesses programme, which will see Three provide funds, connectivity solutions and mentorship to successful applicants. The programme, which is now in its fourth year, has provided Irish SMEs with an investment of over €650,000 by Three since 2021 across products and services, marketing and PR support, as well as access to industry expertise. Funded by Three Ireland and managed by the small business network and support provider, Enterprise Nation, the programme awards 10 small businesses, a portion of the €100,000 bursary. This bursary will comprise of €5,000 cash, €5,000 for device and connectivity solutions for each winner, as well as mentoring and support from Three Ireland's in-house experts. Padraig Sheerin, judge for Three Ireland's Grants for Small Businesses programme and Head of SME, Three Ireland, said: "Three prides itself on supporting businesses big and small across Ireland to scale and innovate through our connectivity products and solutions. This unique programme enables small businesses to not only avail of funds but also to access a range of hands-on support and mentorship from Three business experts. Since Three launched this SME Grant Programme four years ago, we have seen incredible growth from winning businesses and we are so proud of the role we can play in supporting them as they scale." Previous winners of the programme include successful growing Irish businesses like Donegal based Pumpskynz which makes accessories for diabetes devices, and Galway-based accessible gaming specialists ByoWave. Since being awarded a portion of the Three grant in 2021, Byowave have since scaled their business and have become an official partner with Microsoft. They recently launched their Proteus Controller globally at Gamescom and Byowave have also received further investor funding of €1.5m and continue on their mission to make gaming accessible to all. Three continues to support these businesses and is proud to announce that Niamh Tallon from Her Sport, (who was a 2021 Grant Winner), will also be part of the judging panel this year. Niamh Tallon, founder of Her Sport and winner of the 2021 Three Ireland Grant, said: "Winning Three Ireland's Grants for Small Businesses programme has been invaluable to us in boosting our growth journey. The bursary and business support from Three has helped us to add people to our team, increase brand awareness through more publicity and ensured we have the right tech in place to thrive as a young business. I am honoured to be one of the judges this year on the programme as I know how it feels to start your own business and I cannot wait to be inspired by the next generation of businesses coming through the programme in 2024. I encourage all small businesses to enter. You never know, you could be the next winner, just like Her Sport was in 2021." Sonya Lennon, judge for Three Ireland's Grants for Small Businesses programme and Entrepreneur and Workplace Equality Advocate, said: "What a privilege to see baby titans in the making. Extraordinary young companies get precisely what they need to mould themselves for success through this powerful programme each year. I've witnessed that growth in the years I have been involved. If ever there was a reason to apply for this competition, it's the success of those who went before you." For more information and details on the application process, visit 3.ie/grants More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News...

.ie has launched Ireland's Digital Readiness Monitor, which analyses the level of digital sophistication of websites in Ireland and has revealed that 36% of websites have a low or very low level of sophistication. Ireland's Digital Readiness Monitor, which includes websites using the .ie domain, as well as those using .com, .co.uk or any other extension, presents a comprehensive picture of Ireland's digital readiness with research conducted by .ie in partnership with the Irish Institute of Digital Business, DCU and the JE Cairnes School of Business and Economics at the University of Galway. The Digital Readiness Monitor introduces a new national measure of digital readiness - the Web Technology Intensity Score (WTIS). The WTIS is comprised of eleven indicators that measure the digital readiness of organisations in Ireland, including basic websites, websites with sophisticated functionality, websites with evidence of basic analytics, sophisticated analytics, social media integration, mobile optimisation, online advertising, sophisticated online advertising, internationalisation, selling online and cloud computing. The Government's digital strategy, Harnessing Digital: The Digital Ireland Framework, aims to position Ireland as a European and global digital leader. SMEs make up the majority of Irish businesses and the ability of Irish SMEs to adopt sophisticated digital technologies will be fundamental to increasing Ireland's digital competitiveness. The report reveals that 36% of websites in Ireland have a low or very low level of sophistication despite various Government grants and programmes to support digital advancement. A website and associated technologies are a proxy for an organisation's degree of digitalisation, so this statistic demonstrates that SMEs' websites are underdeveloped. At the other end of the spectrum, one in four websites (27%) have a high or very high level of sophistication, showing there is considerable room for improvement. Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment Peter Burke said, "Ireland has outlined its ambition to be a digital leader, reflecting the key role that digital technology does and will continue to play in shaping our competitiveness and driving productivity. The findings of this report demonstrates that we must continue to drive the digital agenda, ensuring digitalisation and technology remains a priority across all facets of Irish enterprise. My department has implemented a number of grants to support SMEs on their digital transformation - the Digital Transition Fund, which will continue to be rolled out to 2026, is particularly supportive of SMEs while the Grow Digital portal is up and running to help businesses assess their digital needs. Together with my colleagues in Government, we remain committed to supporting enterprise in Ireland." Speaking on the report findings, David Curtin, Chief Executive at .ie, said, "The development of the WTIS measure marks a significant step forward in understanding the levels of sophistication of websites in Ireland. Despite the many Government supports in place, it is dispiriting to see that 36% of websites in Ireland have a low or very low Web Technology Intensity Score. For Irish SMEs, digital technologies present the potential of the 'death of distance', overcoming the limitations of location for Irish rural and urban businesses. However, there is evidence of a digital divide based on location, sector and size. In order to drive increased adoption of digital technologies by all businesses, but specifically micro SMEs with less than ten employees, a supportive digital ecosystem optimised for SMEs is going to be required, and we need the financial support of the Government and key stakeholders to help make that happen." Ireland's Digital Readiness Monitor - Key Findings Online Advertising Less than 1% of websites in Ireland make use of sophisticated online advertising tools which utilise targeting techniques to reach specific audience segmen...

Running a small business in Ireland is no easy task, however, the lingering effects of the recent recession are now starting to shrink and 2024 is seeing inflation drop to its lowest level in 33 months and is expected to keep lowering over the next year1. With this in mind, SumUp surveyed 250 small Irish business owners and decision makers within small businesses to see how confident they feel about the state of the current Irish market, and if their current confidence levels extend to future expectations. Confidence levels over the next 12 months: Overall, small business owners and decision makers in Ireland are feeling confident about their business over the next year, especially as the Irish economy recovers from the technical recession it entered in 2023. Two in five respondents (40%) said that they were feeling very confident that their business will experience significant growth over the course of the year. Not only that, but a further 23% of those said that they were confident, although they acknowledged they had concerns. Only one in 12 (8%) of participants said that they were worried about their business's future and expected there to be challenges to overcome. Additionally, 7% said that they were uncertain about the future, and either expect their business to grow or decline significantly. Current concerns and challenges among small businesses: Over two-fifths (44%) of respondents said that their strongest current challenge regarding their business is the economy and inflation, including rising costs of raw materials and stock. Additionally, 39% of participants said that the cost of bills and necessary investments is the biggest difficulty they are facing. There are a number of ways in which small business owners and decision makers are trying to combat these challenges, 37% are working on cost-saving plans regarding their supply chain, professional services and change of their service providers to lower the cost of their monthly bills. Additionally, 35% are reworking their business so it is more eco-friendly, resulting in lower energy costs. In terms of concerns, 37% of respondents are afraid that they might have to lay off employees in the future or change the location of their business due to costs. Additionally, 32% of those who participated in the survey feel as though they might have to sell their business in the future if they do not overcome challenges. The importance of digital transformation: Digital transformation is becoming more important for small businesses, aiding them to deliver value to customers, keep up with evolving expectations and stay ahead of the competition. It seems as though a fair number of business owners and decision makers are currently viewing digital transformation as a challenge, with 38% agreeing that it is a current obstacle they are facing. A whopping nine in 10 (90%) of respondents said that investing in digital transformation and technology is important to their future growth as a business, out of those, 48% said it is very important. Corin Camenisch, Product Marketing Lead at SumUp commented on the study: "As champions for small merchants, we conducted this survey to discover the confidence levels of small business owners and decision makers in Ireland to better understand the challenges they face, gauge their optimism about their future, and identify areas where support for SMEs might be needed. "Overall, confidence levels of small business owners and decision makers across Ireland are high. This positive outlook suggests that small merchants are prepared to navigate potential uncertainties and continue to thrive. "We have provided tips off the back of our findings for those just starting out in business, or who are looking to deal with unexpected market fluctuations on our full campaign page." For more information alongside insight on what small Irish businesses can do to alleviate their concerns head here: https://www.sumup.com/en-ie/business-guide/irish-business-confide...

Joe was joined by Dara Calleary, Minister of State for Trade Promotion, Digital, and Company Regulation, to talk about the efforts to steer Irish SMEs towards full digitalisation. Despite the digital sector's prominence in Ireland's economy, many firms still operate with analogue methods. Dara discussed the new government website, growdigital.GOV.ie, designed to assess and assist companies in their digital transformation journey.

Irish entrepreneurs have the talent and potential to create a stable of unicorns (privately owned start-ups valued at more than $1 billion) and global winners if the absence of scaling finance can be addressed. This was stated by the Irish Venture Capital Association, when it welcomed the announcement by Peter Burke TD, Minister for Enterprise, Trade & Employment, that his department has established an implementation committee to immediately start work on recommendations to assist high potential start-ups access scaling finance. "Ireland has huge potential to create a stable of unicorns and baby unicorns if the scaling problem can be tackled," commented Sarah-Jane Larkin, director general of the Irish Venture Capital Association. "The Irish ecosystem for getting companies off the ground, including government and state bodies such as EI (Enterprise Ireland) and ISIF (Ireland Strategic Investment Fund), is largely working well. The big problem is that, because of a lack of local scaling finance, these innovative, tech-based Indigenous companies often fall into overseas ownership due to trade sales long before they have reached their potential. "The challenge, recognised in the Minister's announcement, is our over-dependence on unpredictable international investors in taking these start-ups to the next level of growth." She pointed out that in the first quarter of 2024, international funding into Irish SMEs fell by 57% to €184m from €425m last year. "While we are developing innovative, exciting, indigenous technology start-ups we must put in place mechanisms to source private capital to scale them up to global winners." She echoed the department's report that lack of this vital scaling finance means that after funding high-risk seed and early-stage companies, Ireland will lose out on employment, tax revenues, the opportunity to create long-term economic value, and the positive spill overs of developing world class firms.

Venture capital funding into Irish SMEs fell by nearly a half (48%) to €258.5m in the first quarter of 2024, compared to €502m in the same period last year, according to the Irish Venture Capital Association VenturePulse survey published today in association with William Fry. "Despite this fall, investment in the last three quarters has held up well against a backdrop of global uncertainty," commented Denise Sidhu, chairperson of the Irish Venture Capital Association. "This quarter and the same period last year each included one exceptional deal above €100m. If one excludes these two outliers, then the decrease in Irish funding is in line with global trends, which saw a 20% decline in the first quarter." She said that seed funding showed resilience, with very early-stage Irish companies raising €40m. Seed funding represents the first rounds raised by SMEs. While there was a downturn in funding across the majority of deal sizes, companies looking to raise €1m-€3m enjoyed a positive first quarter. Funding in this sector rose by 126% to €22.7m compared to €10m last year. Sarah-Jane Larkin, director general, IVCA noted that international funding into Irish SMEs in the first quarter fell by 57% to €184m from €425m last year. "The Irish ecosystem for getting companies off the ground, including Government and state bodies such as EI (Enterprise Ireland) and ISIF (Irish Strategic Investment Fund), is largely working well. The big challenge is our over-dependence on unpredictable international investors in taking these start-ups to the next level of growth. In this regard, we welcome Minister Michael McGrath's recent comments on the desirability of unlocking some of the €150 billion in domestic household deposits into more productive use for both the economy and for savers." She added that the IVCA's pre-budget submission would also make a case for allowing pension savers the opportunity to invest in Ireland's dynamic indigenous start-up tech sector under the planned auto enrolment scheme, as happens in France. The top five deals in the first quarter were: medical device company Mainstay Medical (€115m); energy transition firm GridBeyond (€42m), fintech software company Halo Technologies (€18.4m); space tech supplier Mybronics (€15m) and medtech company, Cumulus Neuroscience (€13m). The life sciences sector (62%) led the way in funding this quarter, followed by envirotech (17%) and software (9%).

Welcome to episode #206 of Stock Club, presented by MyWallSt.In today's episode, we delve deep into the world of private market investments with Scott Ashmore and Rob Halligan, co-founders of PitchedIt. The discussion opens with an overview of the untapped potential within private equity, real estate, and private credit, revealing how these assets can diversify portfolios and potentially lead to substantial returns.The conversation then transitions to an exploration of different stages of startup funding—from pre-seed to IPO—offering listeners a rare glimpse into the early and growth stages of startup development.We explore the transformative impact of technology on investing, emphasising how platforms like PitchdIt are making private market investments accessible to a broader audience, thereby democratising a previously exclusive sector.We also touch on the strategic advantages of investing in emerging markets and sectors such as AI and healthcare, dissecting the trends and opportunities that lie ahead.Don't forget to subscribe for your regular insights into investing, innovation, and the strategies that are reshaping the landscape of finance!This episode is sponsored by Vodafone Business. Vodafone Business continues to support Irish SMEs and are here to help you achieve your business goals. With this in mind, Vodafone's V-Hub Digital Advice and support platform offers free, one-to-one digital advice tailored to your business. Whether you want to grow your online presence, explore best cybersecurity practices, get tips for social media or discuss collaboration tools for your business, our V-Hub experts are here to help.Book a free call today: https://v-hub.vodafone.ie/Become a successful investor by checking out all the content MyWallSt has to offer:

We're running a special offer for Stock Club listeners. To get $50 off Invest Plus just enter STOCKCLUB50 at checkout or you can click here.Welcome to #205 of Stock Club, presented by MyWallSt.In this episode, join Emmet Savage and Mike as they navigate the evolving landscape of technology and innovation, kicking off with a bold proclamation from Uber about its future profitability tied to autonomous driving. The duo unpacks the growth trajectory of Uber and delves into the anticipated revenue milestones, offering a unique perspective on what this means for the future of mobility.The episode then delves into the future with a deep dive into the race towards autonomous driving, featuring insights on Tesla's autopilot controversies, Uber and Waymo's partnership, and the legal hurdles shadowing the path to driverless innovation.We also delve into Catalyst Pharmaceuticals' role in orphan drug status and its pharmaceutical impact, Taiwan Semiconductor's strategic Arizona expansion and its geopolitical significance, and Disney's victory in a proxy battle with Nelson Peltz, marking a crucial moment for corporate governance.Don't forget to subscribe for your weekly dose of insights into technology, investment, and the seismic shifts shaping our future!This episode is sponsored by Vodafone Business. Vodafone Business continues to support Irish SMEs and are here to help you achieve your business goals. With this in mind, Vodafone's V-Hub Digital Advice and support platform offers free, one-to-one digital advice tailored to your business. Whether you want to grow your online presence, explore best cybersecurity practices, get tips for social media or discuss collaboration tools for your business, our V-Hub experts are here to help.Book a free call today: https://v-hub.vodafone.ie/Become a successful investor by checking out all the content MyWallSt has to offer:

Welcome to #204 of Stock Club, presented by MyWallSt. In this episode, your hosts Emmet Savage and Mike explore the volatile world of finance and investment, starting with a deep dive into the spectacular downfall of Sam Bankman-Fried and the FTX collapse. They unravel the intricacies of this crypto calamity, offering insights into its wider implications for the cryptocurrency market and investor confidence.The conversation doesn't stop there; we shift gears to the psychological underpinnings of investment decisions, illuminated by the work of Daniel Kahneman in behavioural economics. In addition, we examine the $30 billion class action settlement involving Visa and MasterCard, pondering its impact on the payments industry and what it means for merchants and consumers alike. The episode also touches on potential market shifts, highlighted by the proposed acquisition of Discover by Capital One. We round off with a captivating pitch on Autotrader, unpacking the secrets behind its dominance and profitability in the classifieds sector. Engage with us by liking this video and sharing your views in the comments below. Don't forget to subscribe for your weekly dose of market insights!This episode is sponsored by Vodafone Business. Vodafone Business continues to support Irish SMEs and are here to help you achieve your business goals. With this in mind, Vodafone's V-Hub Digital Advice and support platform offers free, one-to-one digital advice tailored to your business. Whether you want to grow your online presence, explore best cybersecurity practices, get tips for social media or discuss collaboration tools for your business, our V-Hub experts are here to help.Book a free call today: https://v-hub.vodafone.ie/Become a successful investor by checking out all the content MyWallSt has to offer:

One of the first thing that economists are taught is the Free Trade is a Good Thing. One thing that economists don't speak too much about is that free trade creates both winners and losers. Arguably, not nearly enough attention has been paid to the losers.Whether or free trade is always a net positive depends on many factors. And the alternatives to free trade - the choices made by politicians about things like protectionism - can be even worse. That said, China's accession to the World Trade Organisation was a huge shock and wiped out huge swathes of manufacturing industry and jobs throughout the developed world. Too much too soon seems have been the case. Those left behind communities became the hunting ground for Trump, Brexiteers and populists. They stil are - and there is a distinct possibility of a second China shock coming our way. What will be the results this time?Irish SMEs complain about government inspired costs and regulatory burdens. Are they right to moan? A lot of SMEs are either failing or in danger of going bust.Interest rates: the new normal isn't too far away from where they are now. Discuss. Become a member at https://plus.acast.com/s/the-other-hand-with-jim.power-and-chris.johns. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to #230 of Stock Club brought to you by MyWallSt. Join your hosts, Emmet Savage and Mike as they delve into the ethical dilemmas investors face, highlighted by a discussion on the morality of investment choices. We unpack the rollercoaster saga of Adam Neumann and WeWork, exploring lessons from its rise and fall. The conversation shifts to Boeing's safety and leadership crisis, examining its impact on the aviation industry and investor trust.We also dissect the phenomenon of meme stocks through the Trump Media and Technology Group's SPAC merger, questioning the stability of market trends driven by brand identity over fundamental value. Additionally, we tackle the luxury market's strategies with a focus on a lawsuit against Hermès, debating the ethics and future of luxury brand exclusivity.Engage with us by liking this video and sharing your views in the comments below. Don't forget to subscribe for your weekly dose of market insights!This episode is sponsored by Vodafone Business. Vodafone Business continues to support Irish SMEs and are here to help you achieve your business goals. With this in mind, Vodafone's V-Hub Digital Advice and support platform offers free, one-to-one digital advice tailored to your business. Whether you want to grow your online presence, explore best cybersecurity practices, get tips for social media or discuss collaboration tools for your business, our V-Hub experts are here to help.Book a free call today: https://v-hub.vodafone.ie/Become a successful investor by checking out all the content MyWallSt has to offer:

Build a high-growth portfolio based on a tried and tested strategy with MyWallSt. Sign up now: https://mywallst.com/Fisker Inc. hits a rough patch.This episode takes a deep dive into the stormy seas currently engulfing Fisker Inc., an electric vehicle (EV) company navigating financial difficulties and a fiercely competitive market. We explore the challenges they're facing from funding shortfalls to manufacturing hiccups that Fisker faces, alongside a possible lifeline through strategic partnerships and financing efforts.But it's not all about Fisker. We're zooming out to the broader EV landscape, analyzing market dynamics, and the relentless battle between industry titans like Tesla and emerging players. What does Fisker's struggle signify for the EV market and investors eyeing this green revolution?The tech world is buzzing too, with potential groundbreaking partnerships between Apple and Google in the realm of artificial intelligence (AI). We dissect what this collaboration could mean for the future of tech, Apple's strategic positioning, and the implications for tech investors.We also cast a spotlight on Cerillion Software, showcasing its unique niche in providing crucial billing and CRM solutions to the telecoms industry. With its impressive growth and solid market standing, Cerillion emerges as a noteworthy consideration for those looking to diversify their tech portfolio.Curious about how these developments affect your investment strategy? Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for your weekly dose of market analysis and forecasts!This episode is sponsored by Vodafone Business. Vodafone Business continues to support Irish SMEs and are here to help you achieve your business goals. With this in mind, Vodafone's V-Hub Digital Advice and support platform offers free, one-to-one digital advice tailored to your business. Whether you want to grow your online presence, explore best cybersecurity practices, get tips for social media or discuss collaboration tools for your business, our V-Hub experts are here to help.Book a free call today: https://v-hub.vodafone.ie/Become a successful investor by checking out all the content MyWallSt has to offer:

Business owners across Ireland are deeply concerned over the swathe of upcoming legislative changes in 2024. That's according to HRLocker, a leading provider of global HR compliance solutions for mid-sized, scaling and international businesses, which surveyed 500 Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in December. The survey highlights growing concern over the financial strain and administrative challenges posed by the new laws. Red tape and rising costs According to the survey, Irish SMEs are facing a challenging environment, with half (50%) reporting that the impending legislative changes will negatively impact their growth and recruitment plans. Additionally, 40% of businesses anticipate a significant rise in administrative costs due to the introduction of new compliance requirements. The survey also reveals that 62% of SMEs expect their operational efficiency to be compromised, as resources are increasingly diverted towards managing regulatory demands, while 46% anticipate it will lead to a substantial increase in operational costs. This shift in focus from core business activities to compliance and administration is a major concern for 33% of surveyed businesses, who believe it will hinder their ability to innovate and adapt in a competitive market. With such a landscape, SMEs are bracing for an environment where navigating legislative complexities could become as critical as managing their day-to-day operations, potentially impacting their long-term growth and competitiveness. This surge in red tape is particularly burdensome for smaller enterprises, where efficient resource allocation is crucial. Of those employing less than 20 people, one in eight (12.2%) expressed that the new legislation threatened the viability of their business. The necessity to navigate a complex web of new regulations and compliance measures is looming large, threatening to divert critical resources from core business activities to procedural adherence. This shift poses a substantial risk to the sector's agility and growth, leading many SMEs to adopt a more cautious stance on expansion and recruitment, potentially slowing down the overall momentum of business development in the Irish market. When asked about an increase in the Cost of Business Grant, 64% of respondents stated they do not believe it will offset their rising operational costs. Exposed industries The legislative changes slated for 2024 are poised to impact various industries differently, with some facing more acute challenges. In the Hospitality Sector, 68% of respondents expressed some sense of apprehension regarding the Minimum Wage Increase and the upcoming Living Wage Implementation. This concern stems from the sector's heavy reliance on minimum wage workers. Meanwhile, 54% of those in the Retail Industry expressed significant concern over the increased administrative load, particularly in managing enhanced leave benefits and adapting to changes in wage structures. In contrast, 28% of SMEs in the IT Sector are anticipating substantial challenges associated with the Auto-Enrollment Pension Scheme. "While we welcome these legislative updates and the improvements they will bring to employee welfare, it's crucial to address the considerable pressure they place on SMEs, the backbone of our economy," says Crystel Rynne, COO at HRLocker. "Greater support for these businesses is essential. See more stories here.

Venture capital funding into Irish technology SMEs in the third quarter fell by 38% to 190m from 309m in the same period last year, according to the Irish Venture Capital Association in its Venture Pulse survey, published today in association with William Fry. The IVCA said that third-quarter data "raised alarm bells" and that funding across almost most levels "fell significantly". "Following a strong first half, overall funding for the nine months to end September 2023 just about held up, with an increase of 6% to just over 1 billion, compared to the same period last year," commented Denise Sidhu, chairperson of the Irish Venture Capital Association. "However, the Irish third quarter data raises alarm bells, as the value of deals across all sizes fell significantly, with the exception of those under 1m." She added that the number of transactions fell by over a quarter (26%) compared to the same period last year. As an example, she pointed to the value of deals in the third quarter in the 3-5m range, which fell by over a third (34%) to 193.8m compared to almost 300m in the same time last year. The value of deals in the 5-10m range dropped by over three quarters (76%). Sarah-Lane Larkin, director general, IVCA, said that another worrying indicator was that the value of international VC investment in the third quarter fell by over two-thirds (69%) or by over 120m. "The reliance on international VC investors at a time when US venture capital and private equity investment has slowed significantly emphasises the need for Ireland Inc. to build local private funding sources in order to combat global dependence and headwinds." The largest deals in the third quarter were Ocuco (Software) 60m; Shorla Oncology (Life Sciences) 32m; UrbanVolt (Environment) 26m and ProVerum (Life Sciences) 15m. Sectors most successful in raising funding in the nine months to the end of September 2023 included Envirotech or clean energy, which raised 580m or 50% of total VC investment, followed by Life Sciences at 157m (14%); Software 92m (7.9%); AI & machine learning 88m (7.6%); and Fintech 82m (7%). More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help promote your business. Why not drop us a line at Info@IrishTechNews.ie now to find out more about how we can help you reach our audience. You can also find and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat.

David Broderick, director of the Small Firms Association, warns that Irish SMEs are facing a tsunami of regulations and laws that while well-meaning are presenting a range of difficulties for SMEs in an already trying economic environment. He talks about what these incoming laws mean for SMEs and warns a one size fits all approach does not work when it comes to regulation for businesses of less than 50 people compared to businesses of more than 1,000 people. 

David Broderick, director of the Small Firms Association, warns that Irish SMEs are facing a tsunami of regulations and laws that while well-meaning are presenting a range of difficulties for SMEs in an already trying economic environment. He talks about what these incoming laws mean for SMEs and warns a one size fits all approach does not work when it comes to regulation for businesses of less than 50 people compared to businesses of more than 1,000 people. 

Neil McDonnell from ISME joins Karl Fitzpatrick to discuss the increased levels of fraud committed against Irish SMEs, the types of fraud that businesses are falling victim to and how businesses owners can protect themselves against fraudulent activity. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Following Brexit, it is fair to say that France is now our nearest EU neighbour. Aine Murray, head of marketing at Veolia Ireland also happens to be the president of the France Ireland Chamber of Commerce. She talks about the centuries of history of trade between Ireland and France and the multi-billion euro opportunities that await Irish SMEs trading with France. 

EY Ireland recently announced the launch of its Managed Cyber Security Service, specifically tailored to support Irish SMEs and other businesses to defend against cyber security threats and attacks. The new EY offering is designed to help reduce the cost and expertise barriers preventing many organisations from addressing their urgent cyber security needs. I talk to Puneet Kukreja, EY Ireland Cyber Lead about the human element,  Cyber hygiene, the elastic perimeter, understanding risk, two eggs in a basket, assumed breech mindset, secure landing zone and native cloud. More about Puneet Kukreja: Puneet has 25 years' plus experience in cybersecurity having worked in specialist cyber roles for a range of different organisations in the APAC region including National Australia Bank, the Victorian regional government of Australia, and Deloitte APAC before joining EY Ireland last year.

Hi, everyone! I'm your host, Joe Dalton. And today we're talking to Conor O'Connell MD at MCS Integrated Solutions.MSC delivers customised solutions to hundreds of Irish SMEs, from a range of industries and at different stages. They work with you to help you achieve your business goals and make sure that you're getting the most out of your management systems.So how does this help your bottom line? Well, MCS can help you make sure that every dollar is going where it should be going and making the biggest impact possible! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The current economic climate and tech slowdown may prove to be an opportunity for Irish SMEs and start-ups says Ruth Lyndon, the co-CEO of up-and-coming recruitment business Phoenix. She talks about leaving the life of a big 5 funds lawyer behind for entrepreneurship and offers her perspective on the recruitment landscape in 2023.

Venture capital funding into Irish SMEs increased by 34% to €309m in the third quarter of 2022, compared to €230.6m in the same period last year, according to the Irish Venture Capital Association VenturePulse survey published today in association with William Fry. Funding into Irish SMEs, mostly tech firms, for the nine months to end September 2022 reached just over €1 billion (€1,087m) up by a quarter (25%) from €871.8m on the same period last year. “In view of continuing global uncertainty, this is an encouraging outcome for the indigenous technology sector and compares favourably to Europe where funding year on year for the third quarter fell by 35% and by 44% for the nine months1,” commented Leo Hamill, chairperson, Irish Venture Capital Association. “However, when you drill down into the data, it shows that the growth in the third quarter in Ireland was driven by two deals in the €30m plus category (Fonoa and Tines) and five deals in the €10-€30m range. Deals in categories under €10m fell, with the exception of seed funding.” Sarah-Jane Larkin, director general, Irish Venture Capital Association pointed to a decline in deals between €5-€10m which fell 54% from €72.2m to €33.5m, and deals under €1m which fell by 41% from €11.4 to €6.7m. “More tellingly perhaps, the number of deals in the latter category dropped sharply to six from twenty-two in the same quarter last year. The softness in these two categories probably reflects uncertainty over the global economic outlook combined with the impact of the Russian war against Ukraine.” However, she said that the outlook remained encouraging for Irish-based start-ups and companies looking to raise first-round funding. “Seed funding, which represents early stage first round investments, increased by 45% in the third quarter to €44.8m, from €30.9m in the same quarter in 2021. Seed funding for the nine months rose by 13% to €92m on the same period last year.” She said this compared favourably to Europe where seed funding fell by 29% quarter over quarter, and 20% for the year to date compared to 2021. She said that this outperformance compared to the rest of Europe was probably due to the number of Irish funds currently investing at the seed stage in the Irish market including ACT, Delta, Elkstone, Furthr and Lightstone Ventures, amongst others. “This will be further backed up by the Government's €90m Irish innovation seed fund which is supported by the European Investment Fund.” Cybersecurity and fintech were the leading sectors in the third quarter, each raising 28% of total funding. These were followed by software (13%), life sciences (10%) and other (17%). More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help promote your business. Why not drop us a line at Info@IrishTechNews.ie now to find out more about how we can help you reach our audience. You can also find and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat.

Ken Halpin from Celtrino joins Karl Fitzpatrick to discuss the awareness levels amongst Irish SMEs of e-invoicing, the benefits of the PEPPOL system and why e-invoicing may become mandatory across Europe. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Two hours workers earning less than the minimum wage can become a new pipeline for affordable labor for small businesses, if arranged by a digital inclusion innovation. Labor credit, where loans are used to pay workers directly at the end of each term, for the duration 2–4 months, can become a low interest special purpose facility, useful for SMEs that need workers in certain seasons for certain roles. Spending map, where pegs for fixed amounts are published to spend on food and transport, every month could become a new way to drive customers to SMEs, as well as ensuring that small business workers can see options for more affordable ways to live. Irish SMEs and Digital Inclusion Innovation Libraries, public and academic, have lots of business related books, containing vital knowledge on how to do business better. There is hardly time for many small business owners or managers to read, but there can be a digital inclusion solution, where shelves containing business books are divided to certain library members or users, where they have to flip the books and note things of interest, then to submit, so that it can be adjusted and sent as short messages to owners to learn how to do business better. One of the ways that many big businesses often survive is listing on the stock market, but many small and medium businesses—in many places—don't have this pipeline, taking away a possible means of growth. Though models like SPAC have helped some companies list, it is possible to have a digital inclusion solution that becomes SMEs Index on the stock market, so that certain medium stage businesses can list, possible within Ireland, and in several other countries around the world where SMEs can do better. There are medium stage businesses where they distribute or have a couple of branches or a large number of workers, they can align on an index, and be able to raise equity, to grow to make stuff, expand to new markets, while using their links to small businesses to boost more. This guest post by David Stephen explores new directions that Irish SMEs could power for the industry and for the rest of the world. SMEs: Global Digital Inclusion Innovation from Ireland There are several resources for small businesses, yet the failure rate remains high. Innovations for SMEs are not always right for many of them. For some, what they need is a simple text message on possible business direction. For others, it is how they can have access to a new marketplace. There are often tools, but the business environment remains competitive and unpredictable. There can be two pizza restaurants in the same vicinity, with similar standards, pricing and products but one gets the crowd and the other doesn't. There are observations that certain small business owners or managers don't make. There are also instructions they miss out on because they don't have access to business and management consultants. There are tips for them, but some are vague and general, not particularly applicable. There are several means that big businesses use in growing and excelling, but it is difficult for small businesses. To thrive, there are provisions they can use to cut costs, while maximizing possibilities for growth. There are some possible new directions, for SMEs explored, below. SMEs Labor Economics Model: 2 hours work, in 3 shifts within 12 hours, paying less than the minimum wage could become a new way to ensure that small businesses get all the workers they need in a way that is affordable enough not to strain the business. Labor costs are some of the challenges that small businesses have and options are limited, either not to hire, or to overwork those hired, or cut down on business possibilities because of fewer hands. There are several roles in several small businesses that do not necessarily require high skills. These roles are a key opportunity to provide workers on demand, in a new labor economics model that revolves several workers while allowing responsibilities to ...

It's the final countdown as the closing date for entries to Google's You're the Business campaign is fast approaching. Google wants to hear from SMEs across Ireland by 7 October about how using digital skills and tools has helped to enhance or to grow their business with ten of those businesses winning a truly unique, money-can't-buy prize. The prize package or Personal Plan includes a customised suite of digital supports from Google, expert sector and industry-specific mentoring across a range of technical areas that will help the ten SMEs – selected by a panel of established judges – to further develop their business. The selected businesses will also receive a €1,000 Google ads package each. Entry is simple but time is ticking! To be considered one of the ten lucky businesses to receive this one-of-a-kind digital prize package, SMEs can submit a video [via the You're the Business site] no longer than two minutes in duration detailing what their business means to them, as well as an example of how they have used digital to enhance their business. This can be anything from setting up or optimising a web presence to expanding your operations internationally. Submissions must be uploaded here by the newly extended deadline of 7 October 2022. John Gallagher, Head of Accelerated Growth at Google, said: “Small Businesses are an invaluable part of Ireland's economy employing over 1 million people across the country. We are privileged to work with many of these businesses every day and continue to be impressed by the passion and drive for growth they demonstrate. At Google we are also fortunate to see the creativity of these SMEs and how they are leveraging digital to enhance their businesses. “That's why, as part of our You're the Business initiative, we want to help ten SMEs to further enhance these digital skills by offering a unique opportunity to receive tailored mentoring from sector experts within Google. The selected businesses will also receive a customised support package that includes €1,000 worth of Google ad funding. “We are hoping that as many SMEs as possible from across Ireland will log on and tell us why they're the business – we can't wait to hear from you!” Launched this year, You're the Business – a partnership between Google, Enterprise Ireland and the Local Enterprise Offices – focuses on supporting Irish SMEs to upskill digitally and enhance their online capabilities. You're the Business provides Irish SMEs with access to a series of live and on-demand training sessions, geared towards supporting companies at all stages of their digitalisation journey, including those at early stages right through to those more digitally-sophisticated businesses. The training consists of three modules that will help businesses understand how they can use digital to get online, grow online and expand internationally. For further information on the various training modules as well as the opportunity to be awarded a customised support package, please visit: g.co/yourethebusiness See more stories here. More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help promote your business. Why not drop us a line at Info@IrishTechNews.ie now to find out more about how we can help you reach our audience. You can also find and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat.

Typetec, one of Ireland's leading managed IT and cyber security solutions providers, today announces the results of its latest annual survey of SME owners in Ireland, which finds that one quarter (25%) of Irish SMEs have paid out ransoms to cybercriminals on multiple occasions. In total, one-third (33%) of SMEs in Ireland have paid ransoms, with 74% of these having done so on multiple occasions. In 2021, Typetec's survey found that 52% of all SMEs had paid ransoms to cybercriminals. The 2022 survey of 200 small and medium-sized business owners – commissioned by Typetec and conducted by Censuswide, is the second successive year that the research has been carried out. This year's survey reveals that the average cost of a ransom is now €22,773, in line with last year's average of €22,712. The new research also found that two-thirds (67%) of SMEs that paid a ransom, still had their sensitive data leaked into the public domain. More than half (53%) said their sensitive business data was placed on the dark web. Of the SME owners that have already paid a ransom, 71% feel they are now more vulnerable to an attack. To help combat the financial risks of a cyberattack, the survey revealed that over half of Irish SMEs (52%) hold a cryptocurrency reserve in case needed. A further 69% hold cybercrime insurance. However, 71% of SME owners believe that the cyber insurance market is fuelling the ransomware crisis. Trevor Coyle, Chief Technology Officer, Typetec said: “Our new research highlights that a significant number of Irish SMEs are paying out ransoms to cybercriminals, often on a regular basis. Crypto reserves and cyber insurance are also part of the recovery tactics of most businesses surveyed. However, businesses can't put a price on their data or reputations. When attacks happen and ransoms are paid, data is typically still being leaked into the public domain and onto the dark web regardless. “It's crucial for businesses to have a coordinated cybersecurity strategy in place, with a particular emphasis on best practice basics such as continuous cybersecurity awareness training for employees. General housekeeping does not need heavy investment and will almost always be less costly than the financial and reputational repercussions of a successful attack. “While the majority of business owners believe that the cyber insurance market is fuelling the ransomware crisis, unfortunately many Irish SMEs are getting caught in the crossfire. Ultimately, they need to be more proactive about putting the right cybersecurity measures in place as the ostrich approach is not acceptable anymore.” See more stories here. More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help promote your business. Why not drop us a line at Info@IrishTechNews.ie now to find out more about how we can help you reach our audience. You can also find and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat.

The Innovation Exchange, a programme that accelerates digital transformation for large multinational businesses (MNCs) by connecting them with indigenous Irish SMEs, is calling on innovative technology scale-ups to join the programme and collaborate with MNCs to help address their challenges. Created by Furthr (formerly Dublin BIC) in partnership with Skillnet Ireland, the programme has announced additional funding to meet higher-than-expected demand. The new funding comes following a successful initial phase which enabled collaboration between 200 SMEs with some of Ireland's leading corporations including Musgrave, Heineken, Ryanair, Glanbia, ESB and AXA. At ‘Innovating for the Future', an event held today to report its first six-month performance, The Innovation Exchange announced that it is to open its doors to an additional 100 digital transformation solutions providers to meet increasing demand from industry. Discussing the programmes expansion at today's event, Minister of State for Skills and Further Education, Niall Collins T.D. said: “I'm delighted to see The Innovation Exchange open its doors to a further 100 SMEs in 2022. With over 25 innovation challenges being published by some of Ireland's leading multinationals this year alone, it offers ambitious tech SMEs great opportunities for growth.” Conor Carmody, Programme Director, The Innovation Exchange, said: “The Innovation Exchange has had a strong start and the calibre of both corporates and SMEs participating has been very high. We are delighted to open applications for new technology SMEs to join the programme. We're not only looking for tried and tested digital transformation solutions, but also for the ability to collaborate with large businesses who want to put their stamp on the end solution. If you're a growing, solutions-focused SME then we would urge you to join The Innovation Exchange at a time when there are so many corporate challenges on the table.” Mark Jordan, Chief Strategy Officer, Skillnet Ireland, said: “The Innovation Exchange has made great strides in its first six months, supporting the success of both large multinationals and indigenous SMEs. We are pleased to announce today's expansion of the programme. The potential benefits to scaling companies extend way beyond signing a contract. By building the right capabilities, these firms are accessing a qualified sales pipeline and getting face time with prospective customers. I strongly encourage indigenous SMEs to consider the programme for a great opportunity to collaborate with leading multinational corporations.” Launched in February 2022, The Innovation Exchange has had a number of successful outcomes to date, including 20 SMEs that have moved to a deeper engagement with a corporate partner, with one company announcing that it has signed a paid pilot. Several other SMEs are in proof-of-concept discussions with a view to establishing a longer-term collaboration. More than 30 innovation challenges are expected to be published by large corporates for participating SMEs in 2022. The paid pilot involves Exertis, an IT services company of DCC, and The Éclair Group (now Digital Workforce), a technology scale-up that is developing innovative solutions in robotics process automation. Exertis published an innovation challenge via The Innovation Exchange in May and The Eclair Group responded proposing a solution. Following a pitch and a proof-of-concept phase, a deal was agreed to enter a paid pilot. The Innovation Exchange offers participants a range of benefits including: A qualified sales pipeline and getting face time with prospective customers. — Opportunity to pitch your solution to prospective customers. — Gaining insights into markets and companies which helps SMEs pitch their solution more successfully. — Tailor-made training designed to improve performance of SME members when selling to large corporates. — One-to-one mentoring to companies around preparing proposals, pitching to corporates...

IDA Ireland and Skillnet Ireland have today announced a new collaboration between IDA Ireland's Disruptive Technologies Partnering Portal (DTTP) and The Innovation Exchange from Skillnet Ireland. The partnership has an objective to accelerate world-class partnerships between multinationals and Irish SMEs in digital, disruptive, and sustainable technology solutions that can drive enterprise competitiveness, growth, and transformation. The Innovation Exchange – DTPP collaboration provides a new business-2-business engagement framework. This framework enables multinationals to raise business challenges and needs aligned to business objectives and provides a platform for Irish SMEs to present their innovative technology-based solutions to address such. The engagement framework is enabled by the DTPP, an online searchable platform developed by IDA and Enterprise Ireland that profiles enterprise capacity and needs in digital, disruptive, and sustainable technologies, enabling companies to directly connect for partnership opportunities. In addition to the DTPP, the engagement framework will include The Innovation Exchange programme, where multinationals will voice their challenges and needs and provide an opportunity for Irish SMEs to present solutions to accelerate innovation within both the large and smaller firms. Under this framework Irish SMEs can avail of mentoring, training and other supports to build the necessary skills to position these solutions to multinationals. Skillnet Ireland will invest €5 million in The Innovation Exchange over the next 5 years to support more than 1000 businesses, while IDA will continue to offer free access to the DTPP for companies and access to a variety of supports to enable business transformation. This collaboration between Skillnet Ireland and IDA Ireland is a fantastic opportunity for Irish SMEs and multinational enterprises to work together in partnership to drive digitalisations and collaborative opportunities, utilising the best of the Irish innovative infrastructure. IDA Ireland's Michael Lohan, Head of Life Sciences and Talent Transformation & Innovation, commented: “This is a great example of the way the infrastructure works together for the benefit of enterprise. I welcome our on-going and close working partnership with Skillnet Ireland. A key objective for IDA Ireland is to engage SMEs and multinational companies for the benefit of enterprise and the economy. Irish companies are innovative and smart and are supporting our multinational community to thrive and innovate in Ireland. This is a very exciting initiative and adds huge value to the DTPP.' Skillnet Ireland's Mark Jordan, Chief Strategic Officer, said: “Our focus at Skillnet Ireland is on driving business success and enabling innovation within both multinationals and SMEs. The Innovation Exchange has been very powerful in doing exactly that, by connecting large firms seeking business solutions with SMEs that can provide them. We welcome this collaboration with IDA Ireland which will add greatly to driving innovation across a wide range of areas including digitalisation, climate and advanced manufacturing.” To find out more about The Innovation Exchange and to apply online, visit/. To learn more about the DTPP and register your enterprise profile, solution and/or need, visit/. Successful application to either programme will enable participants to avail of both initiatives.

Irish SMEs are investing in digitalisation to help future proof their businesses and operate more cost effectively at a time when they are concerned about the economy and rising costs of doing business according to a new survey commissioned by Google Ireland and conducted by Amárach. The survey, commissioned ahead of Google's International Small Business Week, found almost three quarters (72%) of SMEs surveyed said that surviving the current period of economic uncertainty is a key priority over the next 12 months, while 71% are prioritising revenue and profit growth. In addition, the rising cost of doing business is a key concern for 63% of SMEs in the year ahead. Despite this economic uncertainty and concern around rising costs, businesses recognised the impact that investing in digitalisation can have on managing costs and supporting growth. Almost half (48%) of SMEs stated that digital skills and tools allow them to operate more cost effectively while 60% use them to connect with customers and 46% say it opens up new markets for their business. Further demonstrating the value of digital, 61% of those surveyed stated that digital skills are essential to future proofing their business. When it comes to upskilling in digital, Irish SMEs are motivated to learn and willing to put in the time, with over 40% of SMEs surveyed having engaged in digital skills training over the past 12 months. However, there are still 20% of SMEs having not completed any digital skills training in the last two years and 19% having never completed any digital skills training at all. Alice Mansergh, Director of Small Businesses at Google, said: “It is really encouraging to see that Irish SMEs are embracing digital skills and tools to help them navigate this period of uncertainty and future proof their business. Notably, half the businesses surveyed see digital skills as indispensable to their business at this time. Today there is a digital divide, whereby even though more than 90% of Irish consumers are online, 45% of Irish businesses do not have a website. “Helping businesses gain digital know-how and confidence are key to bridging the divide, and strengthening Ireland's SME sector. That's why Google has come together with Enterprise Ireland and the Local Enterprise Offices to offer free training support for all. Through our You're the Business programme we're providing free accessible training, in person or online, helping businesses get online, grow online and expand internationally.” You're the Business is a digital platform offering Irish SMEs access to free live and on-demand training sessions, geared toward supporting companies at all stages of their digitalisation journey. In addition, ten participants that demonstrate a commitment to digital will be awarded with a suite of customised supports, including mentorship and ad funding. In order to be considered as one of the ten firms to receive a package of tailored supports, SMEs can submit a video [via the You're the Business site] detailing what their business means to them, as well as an example of how they have used digital to enhance their business. Submissions must be uploaded by 30th September 2022. The survey also found that 66% of Irish SMEs believe that Ireland is a good place to own and operate a small business with 51% of those citing access to government supports like training and funding as a reason for that. To mark International Small Business Week and to further support businesses on their digitalisation journey, Google Ireland has additional offers for Irish SMEs, available only during this week until September 16, including: Save €200 off a Chromebook computer Three months of Google Workspace's business apps and collaboration tools at no charge Get 60 Days of Shopify free of charge to help businesses create new websites For further information on the various training modules as well as the opportunity to be awarded a customised support package, please visit: g.co/yourethebusi...

Irish SMEs remain resilient in the face of inflation stress and the impact of the war in Ukraine, according to the latest Linked Finance SME Confidence Index, based on research conducted by Behaviours & Attitudes. 82% of businesses felt they performed better or in line with expectations in the first half of the year: 44% cited performance as better or much better than expected, 38% the same, and just 18% of SMEs say performance is worse than expected. Looking out to the second half of the year, 62% expect performance to be better than the first half, and 66% of businesses report higher or the same operating profits in Q2 2022 compared to the same period last year. Overall the Business Optimism Index score was up slightly to 62 (out of 100) in the quarter, having dipped by 7 points from 68 to 61 between Q4 2021 and Q1 2022. Price pressures do pose a challenge, with 42% of companies charging higher prices in Q2 2022, an increase from 39% of respondents in Q1 2022, and up from 23% in Q2 2021. Inflation hit 9.1% in July according to the CSO and SMEs in Ireland are looking to recover their higher input costs by increasing prices, with only one in three (30%) of SMEs reporting lower profits. This suggests an ability to maintain margins and pass on input cost increases to customers. Price inflation is increasingly expected by consumers, with the Central Bank of Ireland publishing research last month showing that households anticipate average inflation of 10% over the next year. Similar to previous results, the latest Index findings suggest recovery is coming slower to micro-SMEs (those with 1-3 employees). These businesses report the lowest level of increase in operational profits compared to peers. 25% of micro-SMEs report higher profits, compared to 38% for transitional SMEs (4 to 9 employees) and 48% for mid/large SMEs (10+ employees). Micro businesses also report significantly lower future optimism, with just 38% anticipating a higher performance in Q3 versus 47% for large SMEs. From a sectoral perspective, the Retail & Wholesale sector has been the slowest to recover, with just 31% of businesses reporting stronger performance in Q2. Retailers also appear to be trying the hardest to recover higher input costs, with 64% increasing prices in the quarter versus 42% for all businesses. Looking at the export versus indigenous sector there are indications that exporters are under increasing pressure, reporting a declining score of 58 on the overall Confidence Index, versus a higher score of 62 for indigenous businesses. Increasing shipping costs and growing Brexit-related bureaucracy are possible reasons for this divergence. Niall O'Grady, CEO of Linked Finance, said: “Irish SMEs have shown themselves to be resilient in the face of the ongoing challenges of rising inflation and the economic ramifications of the war in Ukraine. The survey shows SMEs demonstrating a strong ability to weather the current storm with improving levels of activity, increasing operational profits, and a positive outlook for the rest of the year. The major challenge for businesses, in particular, the micro-SMEs and those operating in the retail sector is to find ways to manage the bite of surging input costs, a problem that is likely to get harder during the winter period when the use of expensive energy will rise. We're also seeing some divergence between the experience of SMEs selling within Ireland and those focussed on export, with exporters less optimistic about the outlook and starting to find the pressures of Brexit and rocketing shipping costs potentially outweighing buoyant demand.” Linked Finance has now provided more than 3,200 loans to ambitious Irish SME businesses in every county of the country, amounting to over €199m. Notable companies that have raised funding with Linked Finance in the past include The Rolling Donut, Lolly & Cooks, Murphy's Ice Cream, Iconic Offices and the Irish Fairy Door Company. To view the full findings from Linked Fina...

Guest post by Jason Ward, Vice President and Managing Director, Dell Technologies Ireland With citizens, governments, and businesses more dependent than ever on digital connectivity, one of the most pressing sectoral issues for this decade is cybersecurity. While this issue has been in the public consciousness for some time now, there is still a wide perception gap in Ireland between business leaders who consider cyber security a priority, and the lack of implementation of security strategies within their own organisations[1]. The reality is that cybercrime is showing no signs of slowing down, posing risks across all aspects of society. In 2021, ransomware attacks were up 150% and more than 80% of experts say this growth is now threatening public safety[2]. Here in Ireland, the Garda National Cybercrime Bureau has seen a significant increase in the number of ransomware attacks in 2021[3]. These statistics demonstrate the gravity and prevalence of cybercrime today. The question is, as we focus on global recovery, and a new era of economic growth, how do we protect against cyber threats? In order to deliver on globally ambitious designs of digital inclusion, sustainability, improved health outcomes, defence, and much more for the economies of tomorrow; cyber resiliency is a key building block and enabler. The adverse financial impacts involved with cybercrime are seismic, and unsustainable for economies to absorb long-term. It's no secret that advanced technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML) and IoT are the key building blocks for future progress, but perhaps ironically, it's these same technologies that can present new opportunities for cybercriminals. The ultimate challenge will be securing such technologies and enabling more resilient, long-term solutions to the threats posed by cybercriminals. To make this vision a reality, the need for collaboration and support between the public and private sectors has never been more vital. SME Cyber support vital for the wider economy Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) are the backbone of local economies. Yet they increasingly find themselves the target of cyberattacks. Almost one in three small and medium firms in Ireland say they have experienced some form of cybercrime in the past year, according to an EU survey. Irish SMEs recorded above-average levels of incidents with ransomware compared to other EU countries[4]. It is essential that we work to support and protect such businesses, particularly as we look to build more resilient, balanced societies. SMEs, unlike other businesses, often require and are entitled to greater government support and nurture. Governments that recognise SMEs as integral to a truly flourishing society will empower and deliver the most economic progress. Helping these smaller organisations protect themselves against the ever-growing cybersecurity threat must be a priority for public sector recovery strategists, in the months and years ahead. The convergence of proactive and reactive digital resilience strategy is now imperative across organisations, businesses, and industries – cybersecurity defences alone are no longer enough. Organisations need to integrate resilience into all areas of their businesses' digital transformation planning and operations[5]. This will be a key focus of the Dell Technologies Forum, which we will be hosting at the Convention Centre on September 27th. Public to Private Sector Empowerment It is now more important than ever that public sector infrastructure empowers business resilience to help identify, protect, detect, respond, and recover from a cyberattack and enable a rapid return to fully functioning operations. Even with strong cyber defences in place, it's impossible for companies to avoid all cyber disasters and their resultant, adverse impacts on data, privacy, and trust. Therefore, the key objective should be developing a cyber resilience strategy that can anticipate and quickly re...

Datapac, Ireland's leading technology solutions and services provider, has announced the results of a survey which found that 83% of SME owners in Ireland plan to increase the level of IT services they outsource in the next year. Furthermore, a third of respondents said they will put an outsourced managed backup and business continuity service in place within the same timeframe. The survey of 150 SME business owners in Ireland was carried out by Censuswide in association with Datapac and cybersecurity and backup specialist, Datto. The main reason cited by SME business owners for wanting to outsource their organisation's IT services was a desire to reduce IT spend (39%). Other factors include the challenge of managing remote or hybrid working (36%), the need to access a greater range or more expert level of knowledge and skills (36%) and an IT skills acquisition and/or retention challenge (34%). Over half (56%) of SME owners reported at least some degree of reliance on cloud storage technologies. Hybrid data storage, a combination of traditional on-premise and cloud data storage, is also increasing with almost a quarter (24%) of SMEs using this as their primary data storage model. Additionally, 71% of those surveyed implemented software-as-a-service (SaaS) applications in the last two years. However, of these, a quarter didn't implement a third-party backup solution. Three quarters of SME owners plan to expand their organisation's SaaS usage in the next year. To the best of SME owners' knowledge, the average time SaaS providers hold backups of data in their applications is one year. While the actual length of time that data is held varies depending on the provider, it is typically 90 days or less, meaning that in the event of data loss and without the support of a third-party backup solution, older data can be permanently lost. Karen O'Connor, General Manager, Datapac, said: “Many SMEs don't have the in-house IT skills required to meet the growing digital demand, and more organisations are turning to managed service providers to plug this skills gap. The widespread adoption of cloud storage solutions and SaaS business applications give organisations more operational flexibility than ever before. With this flexibility, however, comes added complexity. “Superior return on investment, easier management of remote or hybrid workers and access to highly skilled experts are just some of the benefits to be expected by enlisting the services of an experienced third-party partner. In order to capitalise on these benefits, organisations need to ensure that the solutions powering these services meet their individual business needs.” Nicholas O' Donovan, Sales Manager, Datto Ireland, said: “The adoption of SaaS applications and hybrid storage technology has played a significant role in the widescale and often rapid transformations which many SMEs have undergone over the past two years, and it's essential to carefully consider how to protect company data as business processes change. SaaS platforms don't come with built-in backups for data, and now is the time for organisations to ensure they have a robust backup solution in place to enable business continuity.” See more stories here. More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help promote your business. Why not drop us a line at Info@IrishTechNews.ie now to find out more about how we can help you reach our audience. You can also find and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat.

A private member's bill proposes that many Irish SMEs should have at least 40pc women on their boards. For more on this Gavin spoke to Emer Higgins, Fine Gael TD.

European markets represent significant diversification opportunities for Irish companies. As Ireland prepares to celebrate 50 years since joining the EEC, the forerunner to the EU, this webinar outlines what the EU can do for Irish SMEs. This virtual event, which is the opening seminar of the 2022 Europe is our Future Series co-organised by the IIEA and Enterprise Ireland, provides an overview of the benefits of trading and doing business in the EU Single Market and will discuss the funding opportunities the EU provides for Irish SMEs. The seminar was chaired by Joe Lynam, Business Editor at Newstalk. About the Speakers: Speakers at the seminar include: Frances Fitzgerald MEP, Member of the European Parliament for Dublin Robert Schroder, Head of External Communications for the European Innovation Council and SMEs Executive Agency (EISMEA) Daniela Angione, Research and Grants Officer, Innopharma Anne Lanigan, Regional Director for the Eurozone, Central and Eastern Europe, Enterprise Ireland Sonia Neary, CEO of Wellola Margaret Rae, Founder of Konree Innovation

Amárach finds that national investment in digital skills could contribute an extra €9.5 billion to Ireland's GDP over the next 3 years. A report launched by Google confirms a substantial economic opportunity for Ireland exists if a meaningful investment in digital skills is made. The comprehensive study developed in partnership with Amárach provides detailed insights into the digital capability needs, ambitions, and plans of 1,000 SME leaders throughout Ireland. The research proposes that significant investment into digital skills could contribute an extra €9.5 billion to Ireland's GDP by 2025. To help Irish businesses succeed online, it is important to first understand how they're doing today and what their goals are. That is why Google commissioned Amárach to engage SME leaders on their lived experiences and expectations of their digital journey. Titled Bridging the Gap – A Report on Digital Capabilities in Irish SMEs, the study, one of the largest surveys of Irish SMEs in recent years, identified four key gaps in digital capabilities: Performance – how far businesses are from realising their full potential. Competence – how businesses are struggling to use digital skills. Investment – the role of funding, time, and talent in expanding competence. Advisory – the absence of qualified advisors and suppliers to meet digital needs. The Current Situation Most Irish SMEs are in the process of adopting, developing, and evolving their use of digital technologies. But some are further ahead in the process than others. When asked to rate their progress, the majority (62%) of Irish SMEs are ‘less than halfway' on their digital journey. Recruiting people with the necessary digital skillset is also a challenge for Irish SMEs with 41% of respondents agreeing that they do not have a person within the organisation who is tasked with developing digital skills. Only 26% of SMEs say their employees have all the skills needed in terms of basic digital capabilities. Faced with multiple demands on their time and energy, the report indicates that business leaders believe that the digital skills gap can be closed, but the challenge is prioritising it over other short and medium-term tasks. Digital Skills The report finds that only 11% of Ireland's SMEs feel their employees have the skills needed to successfully adopt and use new technology, a statistic borne out in the data where only 53% of SMEs have (or use) social media and video platforms and just 18% make use of customer insights tools. When measuring the number of SMEs that have their business website, Ireland at 55% ranks comparably lower than the EU average of 77%. The research shows that Irish SMEs are ambitious when it comes to investing in digital capabilities but 50% say they lack basic knowledge about which skills to prioritise. The report indicates that policymakers, advisors, and suppliers to the SME sector need to help address the priority gaps that will deliver quick wins, spurring decision-makers to go further. Commenting, Alice Mansergh, Director for Small Business at Google said: “The timing of this report could not be more important, the decisions that business leaders and policy stakeholders make about digital capabilities in the coming months and years will have profound implications for the long-term productivity and profitability of the SME sector, and for sustainable economic growth over the rest of the decade. For its part, Google will use these findings to help shape the courses we provide via the Grow with Google initiative helping to train people in key digital skills that will empower them to embrace new business and commercial opportunities.” The Opportunity Irish SMEs are very confident (56%) that meeting their digital skills objectives could make a big difference to business performance, and not just on one or two metrics. SME leaders believe that improving digital capabilities would allow them to increase wages and salaries (28%) and over half of those surveyed...

A report launched today by Google confirms a substantial economic opportunity for Ireland exists if a meaningful investment in digital skills is made. The comprehensive study developed in partnership with Amárach provides detailed insights into the digital capability needs, ambitions, and plans of 1,000 SME leaders throughout Ireland. The research proposes that a significant investment into digital skills could contribute an extra €9.5 billion to Ireland's GDP by 2025. To help Irish businesses succeed online, it is important to first understand how they're doing today and what their goals are. That is why Google commissioned Amárach to engage SME leaders on their lived experiences and expectations of their digital journey. Titled Bridging the Gap – A Report on Digital Capabilities in Irish SMEs, the study, one of the largest surveys of Irish SMEs in recent years, identified four key gaps in digital capabilities: Performance – how far businesses are from realising their full potential Competence – how businesses are struggling to use digital skills Investment – the role of funding, time, and talent in expanding competence Advisory – the absence of qualified advisors and suppliers to meet digital needs The current situation Most Irish SMEs are in the process of adopting, developing, and evolving their use of digital technologies. But some are further ahead in the process than others. When asked to rate their own progress, the majority (62%) of Irish SMEs are ‘less than halfway' on their digital journey. Recruiting people with the necessary digital skillset is also a challenge for Irish SMEs with 41% of respondents agreeing that they do not have a person within the organisation who is tasked with developing digital skills. Only 26% of SMEs say their employees have all the skills needed in terms of basic digital capabilities. Faced with multiple demands on their time and energy, the report indicates that business leaders believe that the digital skills gap can be closed, but the challenge is prioritising it over other short and medium-term tasks. Digital tools The report finds that only 11% of Ireland's SMEs feel their employees have the skills needed to successfully adopt and use new technology, a statistic borne out in the data where only 53% of SMEs have (or use) social media and video platforms and just 18% make use of customer insights tools. When measuring the number of SMEs that have their own business website, Ireland at 55% ranks comparably lower than the EU average of 77%[1]. The research shows that Irish SMEs are ambitious when it comes to investing in digital capabilities but 50% say they lack basic knowledge about which skills to prioritise. The report indicates that policy makers, advisors, and suppliers to the SME sector need to help address the priority gaps that will deliver quick wins, spurring decision makers to go further. Commenting, Alice Mansergh, Director for Small Business at Google said: “The timing of this report could not be more important, the decisions that business leaders and policy stakeholders make about digital capabilities in the coming months and years will have profound implications for the long-term productivity and profitability of the SME sector, and for sustainable economic growth over the rest of the decade. For its part, Google will use these findings to help shape the courses we provide via the Grow with Google initiative helping to train people in key digital skills that will empower them to embrace new business and commercial opportunities.” The opportunity Irish SMEs are very confident (56%) that meeting their digital skills objectives could make a big difference to business performance, and not just on one or two metrics. SME leaders believe that improving digital capabilities would allow them to increase wages and salaries (28%) and over half of those surveyed (57%) say that meeting their objectives in digital capabilities would help them to grow faster and become more profitabl...

Conor is an Experienced Managing Director with significant success in delivering personalized solutions from a wide technology portfolio.Currently leading the company through an exciting growth phase, helping Irish SMEs to manage core business processes by providing the most effective, flexible, Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software.Specialties: Data Mining, Data warehousing, business intelligence, Data analysing, Cost Analysing, Data Security, Data Loss Prevention, DLP, Payroll bureau, Qlikview, Payroll, Sage Accounts, Sage 50, Sage 200, Sage HR, Sage CRM, ACT, Software Development, Web Development, IT Requirements, Fantasy GAA, SQL, SQL Server, ASPX, .Net , Ajax, Obout, Cobol, See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Free for all listeners: The Ultimate Guide to Automatic BookkeepingThis week I caught up with Mark Flood, Director at Renatus Capital Partners, a private equity fund manager focused on investing in Irish SMEs.In this conversation, we cover a wide range of topics from the early days of the business and how they raised their first fund, to their investment process at Renatus and what they look for when buying a business.Mark also brings me through an example of an investment they made in the burrito chain Boojum – and his thoughts on why the CEO is the most important factor in determining the value of any business. Every Sunday, Renatus issue a newsletter synopsising the latest deal activity, company performance and people moves.They also include their top macroeconomic-related tweets, thought for the week and other topics of interest to our stakeholders. Sign up to the Renatus weekly newsletter here: https://renatus.ie/newsletter/Renatus also have an excellent podcast showcasing some of Ireland's best SMEs which you can listen to here: https://renatus.ie/newsletter/Irish Business Builders is brought to you by Jetbooks. Jetbooks provides online bookkeeping services for Irish Businesses. For a free 15 minute online consultation, visit www.jetbooks.ie

In this action packed episode, I kick things off with my rant of the week, where I share some of the things that have been occupying my brain in the last few days.  The topics I go into in EP9 are pharmaceutical companies and that old chestnut Brexit - which is now starting to raise it's head again.  I then push on to my first conversation, and this week I was truly delighted to welcome a new guest to Money & Plants in the form of Stephen Kinsella, one of Irelands brightest economic minds. A Professor of Economics at the University of Limerick and the Chief economist at the excellent Currency platform, Ireland's number 1 business resource, Stephen and I have a wide ranging conversation about Covid, wave 2, how we are at the most uncertain time of the pandemic alongside talking about the new government, and why there might be good news on the way for Irish SMEs.  We also have a very interesting discussion about N Ireland and how it's went from being the richest and most industrial part of the island, to now being one of the poorest parts of the island.  We finish off our conversation with two excellent book recommendations, so make sure you have a pen and paper handy, as I personally really enjoyed this conversation with plenty of takeaways.  At 1hr mark in the podcast, I welcome my second new guest to the show, the incredible Dr Monica Agarwall.  Monica is a Cardiologist and Professor of Preventative Cardiology at the University of Florida who specialises in disease prevention.  She is also an author, athlete, and proud mum to 3 kids, passionate about life, and helping her patients back to great health, through lifestyle medicine,   In this conversation Monica shares with us how she is changing the lives of her patients by introducing them to a new way to manage disease, and facilitate the healing process in the body - Lifestyle Medicine. This truly is a wonderful empowering conversation with such a remarkable lady, who is saving peoples lives.  Monica shares lots of her personal journey of how she thought at one time, she was going to teach religious studies all of her life and suddenly ended up a cardiologist, changing lives through lifestyle medicine.   She shared with me how many of her patients are now fellow physicians who go to her for help because they themselves have got sick and encountered heart problems, but they don't want to take the drugs.  Monica herself, had her own health challenge a number of years ago, and suffered very badly from rheumatoid arthritis after the birth of her third daughter. It was at this time her specialist told her she would be on drugs for the rest of her life, and tried to condition her to believe that the illness would likely progress, and she simply had to accept it. Unfortunately, this specialist didn't really understand Monica, her drive and faith she had in her own ability to not only overcome her condition, but to go on and thrive with her life, to a point where she is now symptom free, and on no medication.    This really was a very special conversation and I truly believe if any of you want to improve your own health, pay attention to this conversation, make some notes, and start to make changes in your own life.  If you want to grow old, happy and healthy, then I suggest you listen up. ** The reason I started this podcast was to share information with you the listener, that would maybe empower, educate and inspire you to make better choices in your own life.  I would like to thank everyone for all of the support as we have received well over 2000 downloads at this point. If you would like to sponsor the show, or have any other feedback, pls email me at conor@conordevine.com Until next time, look after yourself, and each other, Conor

The New Normal talking with Jamie Heaslip about his array of technology ventures, investments, leadership and a lot more. Jamie Heaslip is currently consulting with Flender as head of brand marketing. Flender is one of a number of companies Jamie has invested in since retiring for professional rugby. In the last decade, Jamie has also backed Kitman Labs, where he sits on the board along with Lovin Media Group, UrbanVolt as well as Pointy, which was recently acquired by Google. Jamie is involved in a number of other business ventures, with his commercial firm Sabra Management and his pubs. Jamie Heaslip is ex-Irish Rugby Captain earning 95 Caps, during his international career from 2006 to 2017, making him one of the most capped players in Irish national team history. Flender offers flexible, multi-purpose loans to Irish SMEs, and the platform can approve loans within 24 hours of receiving a completed application.#TheNewNormal #DublinTechTalks #Flender #Investment #Chats #Flender #Pointy

Can a fresh way of thinking really awaken new potential in SMEs to drive growth? According to all the research, it's a resounding yes. “Design thinking” is already used by 60% of Fortune 500 firms and now Irish SMEs are starting to catch up. Dr. Peter Robbins of Dublin City University Business School is one of Ireland's foremost experts in innovation. In a masterclass held recently at Ryan Academy, he explains how the ‘Design Thinking' toolkit can harness innovation and radically improve processes for small businesses. Speaking to InterTradeIreland's Innovation Station podcast, Peter explains that Design Thinking can ‘de-risk' complex innovation projects by testing and prototyping the entire process, which in turn then maximises the return on investment at the end. “There is a tool book and methodology to Design Thinking as opposed to blue sky thinking or naval gazing. It is something that needs ‘top down' support, but Design Thinking is quite accessible and if companies commit, it is a process that delivers results.” Peter stresses that businesses shouldn't be put off by the term Design Thinking or assume it is more suited to creative companies. Like other innovation processes, it's one that requires determination and a focus on customers. “Design Thinking helps SMEs find other access points to understand the marketplace. If you can create a product, service or experience that hits the ‘sweet spot' of being desirable, feasible and viable, then you are right at the heart of innovation success.”

How should companies manage their media relations in a world where so many people get their news via new media and social media channels? That's the topic of this podcast where I am joined in studio by Orlaith Carmody of media training specialists Mediatraining.ie Also joining me is Adrian O'Farrell, Marketing Director of outdoor media company - Bravo  - who explains the thinking behind their MakeMeFamous campaign aimed at Irish SMEs.