There’s never been a better time to grow your business ...

KNOWING where and how to start is one of the main obstacles to giving your business greater online presence and exposure. Since the onset of COVID-19 restrictions, what we assumed was ‘ the role’ of the web has been fundamentally altered.

Prior to the virus, social interaction – online or face to face – was taken for granted in business. But the lockdown left many businesses, who had not advanced their business online, dangerously exposed. Those with a strong online presence were still able to reach their core customer base, therefore minimising the shutdown.

However, a large portion of businesses still rely solely on footfall and face to face transactions and many of them were severely impacted by the restrictions. This is why there is a resurgence in interest when it comes to growing business profiles online.

Don’t worry if you’ve suddenly found yourself having to cope with a lack of online presence, there is suitable government support that can help get you on the road to recovery and greater business security in the event of future social distancing protocols that may be implemented.

To reap the rewards of a digitally empowered society, the practical steps are there to assist and encourage small businesses to get online. For many businesses, the question is not whether to trade online, it’s how to start. Designed to assist small businesses, the Trading Online Voucher Scheme offers training and advice, along with financial assistance of up to €2,500.

This is a unique programme under the National Digital

Strategy that is funded by the Department and provided by the nationwide network of Local Enterprise Offices (LEOs).

The scheme is a co-funding prospect where the maximum amount payable is €2,500, or 90 percent of the eligible cost (whichever is the lesser), exclusive of VAT.

The objective of the voucher scheme is to create optimal economic and social rewards using the internet to enhance connectivity between businesses and individuals.

The criteria for the vouchers means any business with a limited online trading presence, 10 employees or less, €2 million or less in turnover, and at least 6 months trading can apply.

For more information on the scheme, and on how to apply, contact your local LEO office.