BE A VIP AT CREATIVE SPARK

CREATIVE Spark are inviting new businesses and start-ups to benefit from VIP treatment by joining their The VIP ( Virtual Incubation Programme) 2017 which was launched recently to addresses the notion that the physical space offered by an incubation centre may not always suit the needs of some start-up enterprises yet services and supports offered by those centres could be key.

This collaborative project between Creative Spark, Dundalk and Millmount Development Centre, Drogheda (managed by Dundalk Institute of Technology) is targeted at knowledge-based micro-businesses or new start-ups operating in any sector.

Participating businesses will be able to benefit from access to the Virtual Incubation Programme which includes business support, training, advice and mentoring (which can be activated remotely), access to state-of-the-art facilities, and shared equipment cou- pled with a credible business address in either Dundalk or Drogheda.

Supported by Enterprise Ireland, the programme recruited four businesses through an application process in 2016 and seeks to double the number to be brought through the programme in 2017.

Speaking about the programme, Paschal McGuire, Enterprise Ireland Director for the Border Region, said ‘ The Virtual Incubation Programme underlines the commitment of Enterprise Ireland, Creative Spark and Millmount Development Centre to creating sustainable businesses and employment in the Knowledge Economy through the inclusion of a wider client base across the region.”

The Virtual Incubation Programme 2017 phase will run for of six months commencing in April. Applications must be received by 5pm on Friday March 31.

Applicants must be available for interview (in person or via skype) on Tuesday April 11. Apply online at www. creativespark.ie/VIP