NORTH and East Kerry Development are inviting potential rural entrepreneurs on a day trip to County Clare later this month to view a range of successful LEADER funded projects there. The trip takes place on Thursday October 27 and a free bus will depart from Castleisland, Tralee and Listowel from 8.00am that morning.
The trip which is being coordinated by NEKD and supported by the LEADER Rural Development Programme hopes to inspire potential entrepreneurs in Kerry, show them what other rural enterprises have been established and let them talk directly to these promoters about their businesses.
Business and Farm Specialist with NEKD Helen Courtney Power said the trip is a good opportunity for Kerry entrepreneurs to see how they can advance their businesses.
“We would welcome anyone with a potential business, tourism or farm diversification idea to come along and see the projects for themselves. It will give them an opportunity to ask questions, see what funding is available to them and meet up with like minded people,” she said.
The LEADER Rural Development Programme currently has funding in excess of 1.5 million to support rural businesses, tourism, and farm diversification projects in the north and east of the county.
Supports include training, research and development and capital grants for projects. The projects included on the Clare itinerary include visits to stone forts which have been developed for tourism purposes, an eco farm and a company which manufactures a new device for cattle monitoring.
There will be pick up points at the NEKD offices in Castleisland, Tralee and Listowel. A free bus is provided, however those attending will pay for their own lunch. To book and for more information, please ring 066-7180190 or email events@nekd.ie.