cork's gathering - Cork Chamber of Commerce

LINKCork City Council and Cork County Council announced theirbudgets for 2013 in December. Cork Chamber is disappointed atthe decision by both councils not to reduce commercial rates forbusinesses in their budgets.The Chamber recognises the hard decisions facing both Councilsin preparing budgets given the ongoing fiscal difficulties,but believes that the absence of any reduction in commercialrates represents an on-going threat to the competitiveness ofbusinesses. This threat is further compounded in Cork City byincreases in water charges which present further challenges forcompanies who are especially reliant on this resource.The ever increasing reliance of local authorities on commercialrates income to fund city and county council operational costsis worrying. Rates revenue continues to account for a growingproportion of the overall local authority budget, while the localgovernment fund continues to steadily decline. Commercialrates now account for 33.6% of Cork County Council’s totalincome while government funding accounts for just 11.1%. InCork City Council, the situation is even more serious wherecommercial rates account for 40% of total income.While acknowledging the efforts of both councils to improveefficiencies through reduced personnel costs, the Chamberbelieves that more needs to be done to improve localgovernment efficiencies. Services could be effectively providedby merging both councils into one strong local authority to coverhalf a million people. The Chamber also continues to call forstrong independent local authority funding to be put in place toreduce local government’s growing dependence on commercialrates.The decision by both Councils to continue to ring-fence 1% ofrates income for the Economic development fund is welcome.This fund has supported a number of initiatives which havedirectly contributed to economic activity at regional leveland has been commended nationally as a unique model ofinnovation at local government level.As we enter into the new year the Policy Team wish to hear from you on keypolicy issues or challenges which you feel we should be prioritising in 2013.Please feel free to contact the Policy & Research Manager siobhan.bradley@corkchamber.ie or the Policy & Research Executive aislinn@corkchamber.ieThe Policy Team will also be conducting a monthly poll to seek the views ofour membership. This month we want to know if you would use a ‘Park & Ride’service if it was introduced at the County Hall. Further details are available onwww.corkchamber.ie or on twitter @CorkChamber

Siobhán Bradley, Acting Policy & Research Managere: siobhan.bradley@corkchamber.ie or t: 021-4530132Aislinn Stanton, Policy & Research Executivee: aislinn@corkchamber.ie or t: 021-4530143In December, Cork Chamber and Chambers Ireland madea submission to the Department of Jobs, Enterprise andInnovation’s consultation on the Reform of National Microand Small Business Support Infrastructure. Part of this processinvolves the development of Local Enterprise Offices (LEOs) whichwill replace existing City and County Enterprise Boards (CCEBs).The Chamber Network made a number of recommendationsto Government in its submission, and called for the roles andfunctions of LEOs to be clearly defined and not to duplicate theservices that are already provided for by those in the privatesector. Key recommendations included:Core remit of LEOs must be exclusively to support start-upcompanies of 1-9 staff only, as was the remit of CCEBsLEOs should offer a limited range of business supportservices on site, thus avoiding ‘mission creep’ into areasalready provided by support services in the private sector.Small and micro enterprises should be able to use LEOs toreceive information on enterprise supports already availableThe LEO should become a ‘hub’ of information on state andprivate sector supports and servicesLEO structures must be clear, coherent and user friendly withclearly defined support servicesLEOs must be marketed and branded in such a way thatdistinguishes them from local authorities given thatmany businesses perceive them to primarily exist as ‘ratescollectors.’In our view, if LEOs are provided with strong objectives, distinctfunctions and clear structures then they can have a significantimpact on job creation that will benefit Irish business, the Irisheconomy and Irish society. Further discussion on this submissionis contained in the Q4 Economic Bulletin enclosed with thisedition of Chamberlink or on our website www.corkchamber.ieThe Chamber has begun working on a new EU fundedpartnership project on ‘Resource Efficient Maritime Capacity’(REMCap). The Chamber will participate in the project as part of aregional cluster for the South-West of Ireland. Each cluster forms atriple helix with representatives from government bodies, highereducation/research institutes and the business community. TheChamber will represent the business community and will workalongside the South-West Regional Authority (SWRA) and IrishMaritime and Energy Resource Cluster (IMERC) the researchinstitute representative.The South-West Ireland Marine Cluster feeds into a larger projectgroup with clusters from 5 other European countries includingFrance, Lithuania, Portugal, Sweden and the United Kingdom.The project aims to harness growth in the global maritime marketfor Europe to generate economic and employment benefits.Maritime resource efficiency is becoming increasingly importantbut improvements are required in order to achieve this efficiency.ARUP/MVA Consultancy alongside Cork City Council will hold apublic exhibition outlining its proposals for the Cork City CentreMovement Strategy. The strategy proposes improvements forgeneral vehicular access, public transport movement, pedestrianmovement and cycling access in the city centre. The exhibitionwill be held on 16th January 2013 in the Millennium Hall atCity Hall between 3pm – 8pm. Representatives from Cork CityCouncil, ARUP and MVA Consultancy will be available to assist inexplaining the proposals.Cork Chamber is currently preparing a submission and welcomesinput from its members. Should you be interested in providingcomments or feedback for this submission, please contact thePolicy Department at the contact details above before Friday 18thJanuary 2013. Further information on the strategy is available atwww.corkchamber.ieThe €5 million upgrade works on the Jack Lynch Tunnel will becompleted in a final period of nightly closures commencing onJanuary 19th, finishing on 8th February 2013. The tunnel willclose from 9.15pm to 7am every night during this period withthe exception of Fridays. The works, which are taking part aspart of an EU directive for additional fire protection, are destinedto enhance public safety and route protection. Road users cansign up to an email or SMS notification service, free of charge,by visiting www.jacklynchtunnel.ie. Users can also subscribe tothe SMS service, by texting TUNEL to 51444 or simply follow @jacklynchtunnel on Twitter for all the latest updatesIarnród Éireann has announced that it will provide free parkingat Midleton Line and Cobh Line Commuter Railway stations until31st December 2013. Following on from the “Free Parking” offerover Christmas 2012, a decision was made to extend free parkingto commuters for a year.Iarnród Éireann encourages employers to examine the IarnródÉireann Taxsaver scheme to save up to 10.75% in PRSI payments,while employees can save between 31% -52% in tax, PRSI andUSC. The Taxsaver scheme has proven to be a huge success withover 3,500 companies now purchasing monthly and annualcommuter tickets for their employees. Further details can befound at www.taxsaver.ie.For further information on the free parking initiative log ontowww.irishrail.ie or contact Iarnród Éireann for Information on1-850-366222 or (021) 450-6766.

LINKSiobhán Finn, Cork innovatese: siobhan.finn@corkinnovates.comKieran Lettice, Energy Corke: kieran_lettice@corkexternal.ieFinn Pegler, UCC and Melissa O'Connor, CIT pictured with Gavin Duffy, launching the “Brown Bag Lunch Series”Lunch Series for Future EntrepreneursAt the recent InBusiness InCork inaugural showcase, CIT andUCC launched the Brown Bag Lunchtime Lecture Series whichwill see both third level educational providers deliver a series oflunchtime workshops with the aim of giving students, staff andthe general public an insight into being an entrepreneur andshowing enterprise start-up as a viable option for students aftergraduation.Gavin Duffy kicked off the “Brown Bag Lunchtime Lecture Series” sharing his own entrepreneurial journey with 100 studentsfrom both CIT and UCC. The interactive workshop allowed thegroup to ask questions helping them understand their ownentrepreneurial mind-set and potential. The series will rotatebetween each campus and will cover topics such as Creating aJob for Life; Being the Entrepreneur; Future Trends; Spotting theOpportunity; Undertaking Market Research, Getting Started;Accessing Feasibility; Building the Team, The Importanceof Networks; Attracting Finance; Branding and Marketing,Developing a Business Plan; Hitting the Growth Wall, Harvest andExit Strategies.An added bonus for student participants is a free lunch andan insight into the entrepreneurial programmes offered in CITand UCC. E.g. New Frontiers and PINC in CIT and IGNITE in UCC.Attendance is FREE. For more details times and locations contactDr. Lawrence Dooley at l.dooley@ucc.ie.JoinEnergy Cork, the new industry cluster for the energy sector in Cork, continues toseek new members following its launch last month by Minister Pat Rabbitte TD.The initiative is supported by Cork City Council and Cork County Council throughtheir Economic Development Funds and was initially conceived by Cork Chamber.Energy Cork is pursuing a range of coordinated actions to strengthen jobenterprise and promote job creation. Organisations active in any area of theenergy sector are encouraged to join and contribute to the work of the cluster.For more information: www.energycork.ie

Cork Chamber featured in various media channels on a number of issues. The topicscovered included Cork City Council Budget 2013; Cork County Council Budget 2013;Energy Cork; the upcoming ITLG conference; OPW flood risk assessment study in Cork;support for a merger of Cork City and County Councils.9 th Jan Cork Chamber welcomes Huawei announcement19 th Dec Cork Chamber responds to Cork City and County Council Budgets

LINKIn these challenging times, all companies need to ensure thatthey are controlling current costs and taking the steps neededto enhance their future performance. Lean Six Sigma helpscompanies streamline operations, increase value and reducewaste. Lean Six Sigma is a prescription for regaining businesshealth and transforming a company, a way to cut waste from itsoperations and of increasing productivity and improving quality.The Business School @ Cork Chamber is delighted to announcethat we are again running the Lean Six Sigma (Green Belt) coursein 2013. The course was a resounding success in 2012 and wehave included some feedback below from Green Belt graduates.“I found the Lean Six sigma green belt training excellent. Our tutorwas top notch. The work shop and learning aids were brilliant andthe method of teaching was extremely effective. I would recommendthis course to both manufacturing and transactional industries.”(David, Kerry Ingredients & Flavours)“The Lean Sixsigma (Green Belt) course was very comprehensive,with the training covering eight days over three months. The coursemoved very quickly mainly due to the competent teaching anddelivery of our Mentor David Campbell from Alora Consultants. Ifound the training informative and satisfying. The course coversfi ve modules taking in all the tools and options required tocontrol business and manufacturing processes within differentorganisations.….I signed up for Leansixsigma (Greenbelt) to upgrade my skills &CV. I am currently unemployed and it is my hope with a Greenbeltto have a better chance in securing a position in supervision inthe near future. I worked in manufacturing for many years andwould have been instrumental in the transition to Self DirectingWork Teams, Total Productive Maintenance, People Management& Development. It is my plan to get back interacting, coordinating,developing and achieving goals.”(Aylene, jobseeker)“I found the Lean Six Sigma Greenbelt course that I attended thisyear to be very benefi cial to build my knowledge and understandingof lean practice and learn how to apply it to my own workplace. Thetraining was very well run and facilitated and the training contentfocused on our key learning requirements. The teach back sessionswere an innovative way for us to build our knowledge of Lean SixSigma and also a great way for us to learn how to communicatethe key learning’s with a wider team. I would have no hesitation torecommend this course to other people in my organisation.”(Derek, Musgraves)“The course was very intensive and a lot of information wastaken on board in the 8 days. David Campbell (Senior Consultantand certifi ed black belt with Alora Consultants) was an excellentteacher and transmitted his knowledge to us all in a clear andunderstandable manner.….Since completing the course I along with another of mycolleagues here in Moog who has also completed green belttraining have set up a continuous improvement team which will becompleting a project on automatic optical inspection optimisationbeginning in January 2013. Overall I am delighted I completed thecourse and I look forward to using the skills I have learnt over thepast number of months to help benefi t Moog Ireland and myselfgoing forward.”(John, Moog Ireland)“Having attended many courses over many years I was veryimpressed by the above course organised by the Business School @Cork Chamber. The course content was made genuinely interestingusing excellent literature combined with top-class tutorialsessions. Active participation was encouraged and well managedduring problem-solving exercises. Applying Six Sigma tools in myorganisation has already given me valuable insights into how toimprove value streams. Opportunities for waste reduction seemobvious since I completed the Lean Six Sigma Green Belt. I cannotrecommend the course highly enough to those who want tosucceed.”(Eddie, Moog Ireland)Our next Lean Six Sigma (Green Belt) coursestarts on 24th January, 2013 and is of eight daysduration delivered over three months for ONLY€900. (Invoice at end of January 2013).Book now as course size is limited toa maximum of 16 places.

Norma Lynch, Training Services Managere: norma@corkchamber.ie or t: 021-4530142Aoife Dunne, Training Administratore: aoife@corkchamber.ie or t: 021-4530141Cork Chamber Biznetcork Skillnet’s evolving portfolio of management business courses, which are driven by your requests, funded bySkillnets Ltd and delivered by a panel of expert trainers, selected through a rigorous procurement process, are listed below:Train the Trainer (FETAC Level 6)Course Dates: 11 th , 18 th & 25 th February, 2013Member Rate: €400.00This course is designed to equip learners with the knowledgeand skills necessary to design, deliver, assess and evaluatetraining programmes. It is suitable for people in the area oftraining and development or who will soon be assuming atraining position within their organisation. Participants on thiscourse will gain practical experience and recognised certificationas trainers. A participative and interactive training approachwill be followed throughout the programme. In tandem with anumber of exercises (both individual and group), participantswill be encouraged to discuss topics and share their ownexperiences.Project Management ProfessionalCourse Dates: 22 nd , 23 rd & 24 th January, 2013Member Rate: €370.00This course is designed to establish a detailed understandingof Project Management terms, concepts and methodologies.The hands-on approach of this course ensures trainees “learnby doing” and gain a step-by-step, real-time experience of usingthe tools and implementing the methodologies and supportstructures. In simulating real-life environments, trainees gatherthe detailed knowledge required to apply the training on returnto their work environment.Course Dates: 13 th & 14 th February, 6 th & 7 th March & 11 th April,Member Rate: €550.00This course is ideal for anyone who would like to learn the coreskills of Business Coaching whilst also gaining a qualificationwhich is on the National Qualification Framework in Ireland(FETAC Level 6). The main objective of this course is to turnmanagers into effective managers. The programme includesa high level of coaching role plays, in addition to a practicalCoaching Skills Demonstration, which is assessed as part of theFETAC assessment process.The programme is designed to provide those with responsibilitiesfor developing workplace competencies with the skills needed todevelop individual performance in others. It is designed to createan understanding of the organisational and workplace contextwithin which performance and individual career developmenttakes place and it will provide the skills, knowledge and toolsrequired to carry out effective coaching in the workplace.Coaching is about unlocking a person’s potential to maximizetheir performance.Biznetcork Skillnet and Munster Finuas Networks are funded by member companies and the Training Networks Programme and Finuas NetworksProgramme respectively, initiatives of Skillnets Ltd. funded from the National Training Fund through the Department of Education and Skills”Supervisory Management (FETAC Level 6)Course Dates: 23 rd & 30 th January, 6 th & 27 th February, 2013Member Rate: €450.00At the end of this course, successful participants will haveacquired the theoretical knowledge enabling them tounderstand the role and responsibilities of a supervisor andlearn a range of supervisory and management skills. They willhave acquired a range of supervisory and management skillsand developed good interpersonal communication skills. Theywill have demonstrated the confidence to deal with a varietyof challenging situations and developed good work practicesappropriate to their role as supervisor/line manager.We also cater for all of your IT Needs: MS Excel (Intermediate) - 2007/2010 - 24 th January 2013 –Member rate: €100.00 Personal Productivity using MS Outlook 2007/2010 - 31 stJanuary 2013 – Member rate: €130.00 MS Powerpoint "Beyond the Basics" - 2007/2010 - 5 thFebruary 2013- Member rate: €100.00 E-Mail & Business Writing - 13 th February, 2013 – Memberrate: €120.00Certificate in Business & Executive Coaching Leadership (FETAC Level 6)We at the Business School areextremely fortunate to have PatLyons of Greater Heights as ourCoaching Trainer. Pat is the MDof Greater Heights a companydedicated to advancing leadershippotential in organisations. Hisacademic credentials include anMA from UCC, an MBA from Univ. ofWarwick Business School and an MScin Organisational Psychology fromthe University of London as well asDiplomas in Accounting & FinancePat Lyons, Greater Heights.and Leadership (Univ. of Exeter).Pat has worked as a lecturer with the Open University BusinessSchool (1996 -2000,) where he was responsible for teaching onthe university’s MBA programmes. As a long time Associate of theIrish Management Institute (IMI), he taught People Managementand Organisation Behaviour as part of Henley MBA programmeand he has facilitated leadership development programmes as aFellow of the Centre for Leadership Studies, University of Exeter inEurope and Africa.

LINKAn entrepreneur, salesman, marketeer and scientist all rolled into oneCork Chamber is delighted to announce Dr Pearse Lyons asthe keynote speaker for this year’s Annual Dinner on Friday, 1 stFebruary at City Hall, Cork. Dr Lyons is the founder and presidentof Alltech, a global animal health and nutrition company that hasgrown from a $10K investment in 1980 to an organisation valuedat $400million in just three decades.Alltech’s global headquarters is in Lexington, Kentucky; howeverit also has a state-of-the-art European bioscience centre locatedin Dunboyne, Co Meath as well as a presence in 120 countriesthroughout the world.A native of Dundalk, Co Louth, Lyons graduated from UCD witha first-class honours degree in biochemistry in 1967, Lyonscompleted a PhD in yeast biochemistry at the University ofBirmingham. His connections with Cork were at the start ofhis working career where he was involved in the design of theJameson facility in Midleton, Co Cork. Four years later, he got hisfirst taste of American business when he was headhunted by aningredients supplier for the brewing industry.By October 1980, Lyons decided to set out on his own, exploitinghis talents as a salesman and his in-depth knowledge of yeastculture. He began to supply special strains of yeast to the thennewly emerging fuel alcohol industry but he quickly turned hisattention to animal feed - the cornerstone of Alltech's success.Over the years Pearse has focused on innovation, research anddevelopment to expand the product offering and market reachand in 2009, Alltech launched a new equine-specific brand,Lifeforce Formula.It is Lyons combined skills of scientist and business man thathave led to his success and he accredits his decision to sponsorthe Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games for $10 million as‘the single best decision we have ever made because it hascatapulted us to a new level.’ He is also a philanthropist andhas created a joint charitable fund, the Alltech-Muhammad AliCentre Global Education and Charitable Fund which culminatingin a visit to Muhammad Ali's ancestral home in Ennis, Co Clare onSeptember 1 st , 2009.Alltech completed significant expansion in 2009, opening newoffices in the US as well as a state-of-the-art co-generation andenergy plant for its yeast facility in Serbia. It also expanded itsproduction facilities in China and Belgium. In March, Alltechannounced a new venture with Mitsui and Asahi Breweries toproduce speciality food grade yeast extracts. In January thisyear, Alltech opened its first office in Spain and intends to builda production and research facility for the Iberian areas and theMediterranean region.papers for scientific journals. He has recently been awardedhonorary doctorates from University College Dublin (on its 150thanniversary), the University of Plymouth and the Herriot-WattUniversity in Edinburgh for his contributions to science.Mr. John Mullins, President of Cork Chamber commented, “Itis a great opportunity to have one of Ireland’s most successfulinternational business people in Cork for what is the largestbusiness event of the year. We look forward to welcoming DrLyons back to Cork, and gaining insight into his significant globalentrepreneurial success and understanding his views of the Irisheconomy.”On the night Cork Chamber will also announce the winners ofthe prestigious Cork Company of the Year Awards in associationwith Vodafone, (see page 16 for Company of the Year ShortlistAnnouncement) and John will give a keynote address.Lyons has authored more than 20 books and many research

Events Managere: leigh@corkchamber.ie or t: 021-4530133Marketing Institute of Ireland in association with Cork ChamberCork Chamber and the Marketing Institute of Ireland will co-host this seminar on “How Twitter Brings theWorld closer” which will feature Don O’Leary, Senior Sales Manager at Twitter. Don started in Twitter Ireland 6 months ago to launch the Twitter advertising products across Europe.Before Twitter, he worked in Google's International HQ first as an engineering manager and later as a seniorsales manager. Before the world of online advertising, Don developed software for a number of startupcompanies in San Francisco, but also worked as a mechanical design engineer in the aerospace industry inLos Angeles.Don will cover such topics as how companies can use Twitter as a platform for product launches, customerservice, Twitter + TV as well as advertising on Twitter. You will have an opportunity to network with yourMarketing Institute and Cork Chamber colleagues on the evening as well as hear some fascinating insightinto how to make Twitter work for your business.Sponsored by Real InsightsCork Chamber is delighted to announce the start of the Networking Year with the first in the Business AfterHours Networking Events at Flemings Restaurant, Silver Grange House on Tuesday 5th February at 5.30pm.Flemings Restaurant Silver Grange House is a historic Georgian house and restaurant built by one of themerchant princes of Cork, a local wine importer. After meticulous refurbishment and under the guidanceof Chef patron Michael, it is today considered one of Cork’s finest dining institutions.The elegant dining room is designed for both private dining and larger social groups or as a location for aintimate meeting or simply just a space to think . At Flemings, the priority is to maintain a reputation forfabulous food and discreet personal attention. So keep all those New Years Resolutions and start off your year by meeting new contacts, existing clientsand fellow Chamber members. There will be a 20-30 minute networking slot at this event.Cork Chamber’s Business Breakfast series in association with the Irish Examiner will kick off on Tues 12thFebruary 2013, with guest speaker Terry Clune, winner of the 2009 E&Y Entrepreneur of the Year Award andthe 2010 HSBC European Entrepreneur Award. Terry founded Taxback.com while in college, to help students reclaim overpaid income tax from summeremployment abroad. His Taxback Group now provides a wide range of international tax, travel andpayment services to individual, SME and Multinational clients. The Taxback Group employs 825 staff,and is headquartered in Kilkenny, Ireland with offices in 22 countries. In 2012, Terry Clune developed andfinanced ConnectIreland.com, an Irish government supported incentive referral programme to createnew jobs in Ireland. This programme is open to anyone who has a personal contact in a company thatis expanding internationally. By introducing that contact to ConnectIreland.com individuals can earn asubstantial reward for themselves or their preferred charity if the introduction creates new jobs in Ireland.Take this opportunity to meet new business contacts, build relationships with existing contacts as well asyour fellow Cork Chamber members, as well as hearing Terry’s story of entrepreneurship and enterprise.Places for events are limited. Please quote if required. Cancellations will be accepted up to 72hrsbefore each event, after this all places will be charged. This policy applies to all events.

LINKKevin Cullinane, Cork Airport; Darina Allen, Ballymaloe; Cllr John Buttimer, Lord Mayor of Cork and Cllr Barbara Murray, County Mayor.The official launch of Cork’s programme of events for TheGathering 2013 took place at Cork Airport recently with Cllr.Barbara Murray, County Mayor and Cllr. John Buttimer, LordMayor of Cork and Cork Gathering Ambassador, Darina Allenjoined by a host of celebrities with a proud Cork heritage. Over220 spectacular events are planned to take place across Cork Cityand County during 2013.Cork’s key Gathering initiative 'Rebel Week’ will showcase aweek-long series of specially commissioned events running fromOctober 14 th -20 th 2013. Among the diverse events scheduledfor ‘Rebel Week’ include a commemoration of the birth ofrevolutionary leader and Cork’s first son, Michael Collins, onOctober 16 th ; a Cork Global Economic Forum; and a novel ‘CorkPassport’ scheme where those wishing to get their hands onthis coveted document must be willing to prove their Corkcredentials.Commenting on The Gathering’s ‘Rebel Week’, Padraic O’Kane,CEO of Corporate.ie (event promoters of ‘Rebel Week’) said “RebelWeek seeks to embody the spirit of The Gathering in an engagingand, above all, lasting way. We are striving to ensure that throughits activities, the week becomes a catalyst for Cork’s economicrejuvenation in the short and longer-term. With a target ofattracting 5,000 international visitors, the week is geared towardsfostering a sense of inclusivity and ‘family’ among citizens,businesses and all sectors of Cork society that translates into civicand commercial renewal.”From the 22 nd to the 25 th of August 2013, Cork will also play hostto the World Mini Games. The multi-sport event, focused onreduced format versions of sport such as five-a-side football andrugby sevens, will take place at the Mardyke Sports Grounds andvarious locations around the city and county. Up to 30 differentsports will be on offer for adults of all sporting abilities.The Gathering is about reconnecting families and communitiesand extending the invitation to the diaspora to come home andjoin in the celebration. One community embracing this is Allihiesvillage which, from September 12 th to 15 th 2013, is welcomingthe copper-mining diaspora home to trace their ancestral roots.During the 1800’s, Allihies was a flourishing community due theabundance of copper in the area, but when the mines becameexhausted many workers emigrated across the world, particularlyto Butte Montana, a city that is also known today as ‘ShamrockCity’! The celebrations will culminate in a choir singing deepwithin the mines of Allihies.From the Cork Stout Festival to the Spike Island Triathlon to theCork City Marathon taking place on Bank Holiday Monday, June3 rd , and the numerous clan gatherings in between, The Gathering2013 will see Cork opening its arms with a ‘Céad Míle Fáilte’ towelcome friends and family home from all over the world to bepart of a fun-filled year of celebration and great craic!Significant investment has been made by key stakeholders CorkCounty Council, Cork City Council, Fáilte Ireland, IPB and CorkAirport to the tune of approximately €1 million to ensure thatCork has The Gathering of all Gatherings in 2013.

Chamber Supported Gathering EventsBarry O’Sullivan, Senior VP Cisco; Conor Healy, Cork Chamber and Cian Hughes, Head ofOperations, ITLG.ITLG Event provides investmentopportunity for innovative companiesA number of international investors will convene in Cork for theGlobal Technology Leaders Summit on 21 and 22 January 2013.An integral part of the Irish Technology Leadership Group (ITLG)summit, the first and largest business Gathering event, will seeventure capitalists and investors from the USA, China and Russiareviewing Irish start-ups and early stage companies in Dragons’Den-style pitch sessions.Indigenous companies in the fields of mobile technologies, cloud,biotech and convergent pharma, nanotechnology and renewableenergies among others are invited to pitch their business ideasto the international delegation of investors and seasonedentrepreneurs.“There is a great opportunity for indigenous industry to meet andengage with international investors and business leaders at thisinternational summit, being held in Cork in January 2013,” saidConor Healy, CEO of Cork Chamber and partner with ITLG, CorkCity Council, CIT and UCC in the Cork event. “An incredible lineup of speakers has been put together for the event, and includesCork-grown global success stories such as Liam Casey (PCH),Barry O’Sullivan (Cisco), Rory McInerney (Intel), James Whelton(CoderDojo) and Sean O’Donoghue (Madison Square Garden)as well as significant international players such as Una Fox(Disney), Richard Moran (Accretive Solutions), Kevin Barrett (ElanCorporation) and a host of other world class speakers”.The Global Technology Leaders Summit will take place in CityHall, Cork on 22 January 2013 and is already almost at fullcapacity. The event will include a number of leadership panels,presentations as well as a technology showcase and a gala dinner.Further information and bookings can be made on www.itlg.orgMartin Riordan, Cork County Manager at the launch of CorkMeet 2013.CorkMeet 2013 - Ireland's PremierBusiness Gathering EventCorkMeet 2013 is a 3-day International Business NetworkingForum taking place in Cork from 10 th -12 th April at the RochestownPark Hotel.This must attend event is open to Irish and international smalland medium sized businesses from all sectors looking to expandinto new markets or find a new partner.Each business will be offered up to 16 pre-scheduled one-to-onemeetings with companies of their choice. These meeting willbe pre-selected by delegates from the CorkMeet 2013 businesscatalogue available online.600 companies are expected to avail of up to 10,000 individualmeetings, thus initiating thousands of business partnershipsbetween SME’s in Ireland and overseas.These meetings will be complimented by an afternoonconference on Wednesday 10 th April and a Gourmet Picnic inthe hotel grounds with all food and drink sourced locally anda networking dinner at Curraheen Park Greyhound Stadium tofacilitate further networking and informal meetings.To register or for more information go to www.corkmeet.ieCorkMeet 2013 is a not for profit partnership between Cork CountyCouncil and Cork City Council, Cork County and City EnterpriseBoards and Cork Chamber.works for your business13

CHAMBER LINKinternationalCork Chamber delegation meeting with and . In September 2012 Sean Kelly was named 'MEP of the Year' for Research and Innovation, at a prestigious awardsceremony in Brussels.Chamber Delegation to BrusselsIn advance of the Irish EU Presidency 2013, the Chamber led aCork delegation to Brussels last November to meet with highlevelrepresentatives of the European Commission and otherorganisations.Much of the discussion centred around . Runningfrom 2014 to 2020 with an €80 billion budget, the EU’s newprogramme for research and innovation is part of the drive tocreate new growth and jobs in Europe.The group, which comprised delegates from Cork Chamber, CorkCity and County Councils, UCC, CIT and CorkInnovates, was inBrussels to promote Cork as an Entrepreneurial and Innovativeregion, to benchmark our successes against other regions, and tolearn how the region could take advantage of EU supports andfunding for relevant initiatives related to these themes.During the course of the visit the delegation had meetings withthe following: - Irish Ambassador to Belgium – Manager, EU R&D Liaison Office - EnterpriseIreland – Benelux Market Advisor, EnterpriseIreland and - Irish Regions Office – Head of Cabinet – DG Research & Innovation – Member of Cabinet - DG Research &Innovation – Deputy Head of Entrepreneurship -DG Enterprise & Industry – Access to Finance for SMEs - DG Enterprise& Industry – Policy Officer - European Instituteof Innovation and Technology – Project Director - Science|Business – Associate Professor in European andInternational Economics & Chairman of INFER (InternationalNetwork for Economic Research) – Director of Innovation, Microsoft Europe – Project Manager, Microsoft InnovationCentre BrusselsThe proposed support for research and innovation under Horizon2020 will: Strengthen the EU’s position in science with a dedicatedbudget of €24, 598 million. This will provide a boost to toplevelresearch in Europe, including an increase in funding of77% for the very successful European Research Council Strengthen industrial leadership in innovation with a budgetof €17, 938 million. This includes major investment in keytechnologies, greater access to capital and support for SMEs Provide €31,748 million to help address major concernsshared throughout Europe, such as climate change,developing sustainable transport and mobility, makingrenewable energy more affordable, ensuring food safetyand security, or coping with the challenge of an ageingpopulationHorizon 2020 will tackle societal challenges by helping to bridgethe gap between research and the market by, for example,helping innovative enterprises to develop their technologicalbreakthroughs into viable products with real commercialpotential. This market-driven approach will include creatingpartnerships with the private sector and Member States to bringtogether the resources needed.International cooperation will be an important crosscuttingpriority of Horizon 2020 and the programme will becomplemented by further measures to complete and furtherdevelop the European Research Area by 2014. These measureswill aim at breaking down barriers to create a genuine singlemarket for knowledge, research and innovation.14

Katherine Fitzpatrick, EU Trade & Innovation Services Managere: katherine@corkchamber.ie or t: 021-4530137Eimear O'Mullane, EU Trade & Innovation Services Executive:e: eimear@corkchamber.ie or t: 021-4530138Imelda Mulcahy, Export Documentation Managere: imelda@corkchamber.ie or t: 021-4530130The Presidency of the Council of the EU rotates among the 27Member States every six months. Ireland will hold the Presidencyfor the 7th time from January to June 2013. The presidingMember State advances the EU’s ongoing work agenda, and hasan opportunity to shape and influence EU policy and legislation.The Presidency also represents the Council in its dealings withother EU Institutions.The key priorities of the Irish Presidency are the delivery ofstability, jobs and growth for Europe. Ireland plans to tackle issuesof concern to all Europeans including youth unemployment,promoting stability through the Banking Union, and drivingfuture growth through the Digital Agenda which will enablethe free flow of online trade, services and entertainment acrossnational borders through better regulation, and with high-speedinternet available to all.Bioeconomy Stakeholder Conference14-15 FebruaryDublin CastleJoint Programming Conference28 February-1 MarchDublin CastleOver the last decade, the European Commission has recognisedthe importance of investing in R&D to support the EUBioeconomy. It is expected that new bio-processing technologiesand approaches will deliver a sustainable and vast array ofrenewable, value-added bio-based products from biologicalwaste streams including agro-food and forestry residues. Theproduction of these bio-based products will contribute toeconomic growth and jobs within the EU – whilst at the sametime limiting any negative impacts on the environment andreducing our dependency on fossil resources.In 2012 the European Commission approved a document on"Innovating for Sustainable Growth: a Bioeconomy for Europe".This Communication introduced a Strategy and Action Plan todevelop a strong Bioeconomy which will help Europe live withinits limits ensuring sustainable exploitation of biological resourcesthus allowing the production of more from less. This Conferencewill ensure that the development of the bioeconomy remainshigh on Europe's agenda as well as evaluating the progressachieved to date in relation to the proposed Action Plan.Responsible Research & Innovation (Atomium Culture)25-26 FebruaryTrinity College, DublinThis conference will focus on the role of the media in responsibleresearch and innovation, including a focus on the use of socialmedia. The conference will facilitate knowledge sharing betweenthe participants (e.g. researchers, business, journalists, civilsociety, policy makers) and will attract up to 300 participants. Theaim of the conference is to start a structured European reflectionon the role and responsibilities of the media, at the science andsociety interface. It will give inputs for shaping the EuropeanResearch Area and will prepare for participation in Horizon 2020.It will raise the quality standards of responsible reporting onscience, technology, research and innovation in the media.This two day conference is expected to attract between 300-500 participants and it is expected to play a crucial role in theintegration of the results and experience coming from jointprogramming activities to date, which will strengthen theintegration of the European Research Area. Joint Programming isa voluntary partnership between Member States and associatedcountries that aims to tackle major but common Europeansocietal challenges by combining national research programmesand thereby making better use of Europe's limited public researchand development resources. Joint Programming is also one of theinitiatives of the European Research Area and developments at EUlevel will have a significant impact on the structure and contentof the next Framework Programme (Horizon 2020).For more information on EU 2013 events see www.eu2013.ieThe Irish EU Presidency has 2 official Twitter profiles which youcan follow to stay in touch with the Presidency.@eu2013ie for updates from the official Irish EUPresidency account.@IrelandRepBru for updates from the spokespeopleat the Irish Permanent Representation in Brussels.

LINKCork Chamber, in partnership with Vodafone, has announced thecompanies shortlisted for the 2013 Cork Company of the YearAwards.“Cork Chamber is delighted to work with Vodafone on theseawards particularly at a time in business when it is important torecognize achievements and contribution to Cork’s economicgrowth. This year’s awards have seen the highest number ofentrants across all categories so selecting the three shortlistedcompanies has been a tough challenge for the adjudication panelbut we look forward to announcing the overall winners at ourAnnual Dinner”, commented Conor Healy, Chief Executive of CorkChamber. Three companies have been shortlisted in each of thecategories as follows:Large Company (more than 100 employees) PCH International is a global product development andsupply chain solutions company VMware is the global leader in Cloud & Virtualisationsoftware services Dairygold is Ireland’s leading farmer owned Dairy and Agrimulti-purpose Co-Operative delivering sustainable solutions.Anne O’Leary, Business & Enterprise Director at VodafoneIreland said, “This year’s shortlist demonstrates theentrepreneurial success we’ve witnessed in Ireland over thelast number of years as Irish businesses continue to develop,grow and expand into international markets. Companiessuch as these are key to our economic recovery and Vodafoneis very proud to support the Cork Company of the YearAwards in acknowledging their contribution to the Irishmarket."SME Company (less than 100 employees) Glenilen Farm produces a range of artisan dairy products inDrimoleague, West Cork. Hayfield Manor is an internationally recognised, luxury 5 starhotel in the heart of Cork city Contracting Plus is the Accounting, Administration andTaxation Solution for Professional ContractorsEmerging Company (less than 5 years in business) AirDryer Systems Ltd. manufactures a range of energyefficient clothes drying appliances. Verde LED Ltd. manufacturers/distributors of CommercialEnergy Efficient LED Lighting products Keelvar Systems bring cost efficiencies to publicprocurement through software optimisationThe winner in each category as well as the overall winnerwill be announced at the Chamber Annual Dinneron Friday, 1 st February at City Hall, Cork.

Barbara-Anne Richardson, Marketing & Commercial Services Managere: barbara-anne@corkchamber.ie or t: 021-4530140D.O. O’Connor, Deputy Managing Director & Director of Business Development, laya healthcare; Larry O’Dwyer, Non-Executive Director; Brenda Ryan, Company Secretary; Kieran Barry, Chairman ofthe Board; Ann O’Doherty, Non-Executive Director; Dónal Clancy, Managing Director, laya healthcare; Mary Condon, Director of Finance, laya healthcare and Brendan Tuohy, Non-Executive Director.Laya Healthcare’s seven member Board of Directors has beenformally unveiled at the company’s new Dublin office inFitzwilliam Hall. The new base in the heart of Dublin will behome to members of laya healthcare’s Corporate Sales andOccupational Health (Health@Work) teams. The Board is ledby Chairman and Non-Executive Director, Kieran Barry, formerManaging Director in Ireland with Hewitt Associates. The Boardincludes three Executive Directors from laya healthcare’s seniormanagement team - Dónal Clancy, Managing Director, D.O.O’Connor, Deputy Managing Director & Director of BusinessDevelopment and Mary Condon, Director of Finance. The threeremaining Board members are Non-Executive Directors, BrendanTuohy, Former Secretary General of the Dept of Communications,Energy & Natural Resources, Larry O’Dwyer, a former partner atErnst & Young and current member of the Audit Committees ofUniversity College Cork and Cork County Council and Dr. AnnO’Doherty, Clinical Director, BreastCheck, Dublin and ConsultantRadiologist, St. Vincent’s Hospital.Cork City Lord Mayor John Buttimer has taken delivery of a newFord Mondeo with the registration number 131-C-1 the car is oneof the first vehicles in the country to sport the new format. EddieMurphy, Chairman and Managing Director of Ford Ireland said:“Ford is delighted to again provide the Lord Mayoral car – this isthe 25th year that we have done so. With its distinctive numberplate – always the first car to be registered each year in Cork –the Lord Mayor’s car has become a common sight and with thechange to the new registration format for 2013 the car will beeven more stand out than in previous years”. The Lord Mayor’scar is a Mondeo 2.0 litre TDCi Powershift automatic transmission.All Mondeo models now come with a five year warranty andcustomers who register a new Mondeo before January 31 st , canavail of a single price offer on the Mondeo 4-door, 5-door orEstate versions which are all priced from €26,995*.Eddie Murphy, Ford Ireland handing the keys of the New Ford Mondeo to Cllr. JohnButtimer, Lord Mayor of Cork.

LINKAmy Quilter with the Kearys team getting ready for the new year and the new registrationplate at Kearys Renault Cork.Kearys Renault Cork provide a first look at the new registrationplate 131 which came into force on January 1, 2013. Pictured atKearys Renault in Cork where the team are implementing thechanges which will see 2 registrations during the year – 131 fromJanuary to June 2013, and then 132 from July to December 2013The introduction of the new registration plates for 2013 ties inwell with the recent partnership between Kearys and LeasePlanIreland. This agreement enables fleet customers to order anyvehicle brand directly through Kearys Fleetplan extending thecurrent Keary brands that already include Nissan, Hyundai,Renault, BMW and Mini. “Fixed price motoring and competitivefinance are key motivations for businesses with vehicles on theroad today”, explained Bill Keary, CEO of Kearys of Cork.Denis O’Sullivan, Flogas Natural Gas making the donation to members of the SHARE studentExecutive.The 42 nd annual fast and fundraising campaign for SHARE(Students Harness Aid for the Relief of the Elderly), theorganisation for the care of Cork’s elderly is now underway and insupport of this, various Cork organisations are pulling together toencourage Corkonians to dig deep in the true spirit of Christmas,and make a positive contribution towards SHARE’s commitmentto Cork’s elderly. Flogas Natural Gas, a leading supplier ofnatural gas to the residential and commercial sectors donated€500 to the SHARE Student Executive. Donations go towardsthe maintenance of the 200 secure and comfortable SHAREhomes throughout Cork city, the impressive Day Care Centre onSheare’s Street and the services maintained at the centre. “We aredelighted to support such a wonderful and unique Cork charityand hope that our donation will go some way towards helpingthe organisers meet their fundraising target this year” said DenisO’Sullivan of Flogas Natural Gas.Big Fish Clean-up participants ready for action.Mahon-based casual gaming giant Big Fish has been honouredby An Taisce for its commitment to Cork’s local environment.The Coastcare Initiative of the Year Award was presented at anawards ceremony in the Royal College of Physicians in Dublinin recognition of the clean-up carried out by Big Fish and theInchydoney Island Residents Association last May. In additionto removing litter and improving the overall appearance of thebeach, volunteers planted Marram Grass in a bid to combatcoastal erosion. Big Fish organises beach clean-ups four times peryear – not only on Inchydoney Beach, but also on Dutchman’sCove, which was adopted by Big Fish in 2011. This engagementis a result of a strong culture of environmental awareness inwhich employees are encouraged to volunteer within the localcommunity in Cork. Such work is carried out by employees intheir own time.Leaving Certificate Excellence Awards students with Dr. Donncha Kavanagh, Professor IreneLynch Fannon and Professor Ursula Kilkelly from the College of Business & Law UCC.Professor Irene Lynch-Fannon, Head, College of Business & Lawat University College Cork awarded fifty scholarships to highachieving students within the College. Twenty five LeavingCertificate Excellence Scholarships of €1,000 were presentedto students based on the Leaving Certificate Examinationresults 2012. A further twenty five scholarships were awardedto students based on their academic performance in theSummer 2012 university examinations. Professor Lynch-Fannonpaid tribute to the students for their wonderful academicachievements and thanked them for choosing to study at UCC’sCollege of Business and Law which continues to attract very highachieving students.

To submit articles for Members News to e: imelda@corkchamber.ieDeirdre Dunne, Bord Gais Networks science volunteer with Kaylynn O'Callaghan, StJoseph’s National School and Eoin O'Callaghan, St. Colman's National School.Bord Gáis Networks, in partnership with Junior AchievementIreland, has brought its Science Forward programme to Cork’sschool children for the 2nd year running. Sixth class primarystudents from eight Cork schools were introduced to the worldof science and technology through hands-on experiments andinteractive workshops hosted at UCC. Science Forward aims toinstill an interest in science and technology among participatingstudents and encourage them to seriously consider sciencewhen making their secondary school subject choices. Withoutany knowledge of science and its importance in modern life andindustry, it is unlikely that students will have an appreciation foror an interest in science. This ultimately impacts subject choice atsecond level which then has a significant influence on third levelcourse choice and ultimately, their career path. The participatingstudents mainly attend schools that are part of the DEIS initiative(Delivering Equality of Opportunity to Schools). Programmedelivery is facilitated by Junior Achievement Ireland and trainedstaff volunteers from Bord Gáis Networks.Captain Michael McCarthy, Commercial Manager and Brendan Keating, Chief ExecutivePort of Cork laounching the School's initiative competition.The Port of Cork has launched their Schools Initiative for 2013and is calling on all 5 th class primary school teachers to get theirclass involved. This year’s theme ‘The Gathering 2013 – CorkHarbour – Ireland’s Maritime Gateway to the World’ is celebratingThe Gathering and Cork Harbour’s strong links with Irish diaspora,both as a tourism hub today and as a departure point for Irishemigrants in the past. All participating 5th classes who take partin will be treated to a boat trip around Cork harbour, complimentsof the Port of Cork and each class will also receive a certificate ofparticipation. In addition to the overall prize, awards will also begiven for the best artwork piece and best photograph. Projectsare to be presented in artwork format using paintings, modelsor photographs. Submitted projects will go on public display inCustoms House before the winner is announced in April 2013.Closing date for entries is 29th March 2013.As a proactive and dynamic organisation Cork Chamber is committed to our member’sneeds. Research has shown that demand for the diary format of our yearly Membershipdirectory is very limited. Therefore for 2013 we will produce an interactive, user friendly,digital membership directory that will allow our diverse members to connect and avail ofeach other’s services efficiently.As a result it is important that members up-date their information in the members onlysection of our website as soon as possible. The members only section is found at the topright of our website: www.corkchamber.ie where you can log in and check your contactdetails and up-load your company logo.

LINKAnthony Morrissey, Munster RugbyDave O'Brien, QuintasMunster Rugby is delighted to announcethe appointment of Anthony Morrissey astheir new Sales Development Executive.Anthony holds a BSc. in Marketing fromTrinity College along with extensivesales, business development & marketingexperience from a sports & eventsbackground. He has been based in theUK for the past last couple of years wherehe worked as Business DevelopmentManager for Autosport Internationalwhich is Europe’s largest motorsportevent.Quintas is pleased to announce theappointment of a Tax Manager, namelyDave O’Brien to its taxation team. Davejoins Quintas from Ernst & Young wherehe worked in various positions in thetax department since 2006. He is agraduate of UCC where he obtained aBSc in Finance, Economics and Business.Dave will have responsibility for companyreorganisations and restructuring,personal & corporate tax planning,succession planning and revenue audits.Johnson & Perrott Motor Group has justannounced the appointment of a newChairman of its Board of Directors. TheCompany, which was founded in 1810, hasappointed Mr Harry Lorton as a Non-executiveDirector and he will become Chairman on theretirement of the group’s current Chairman,Mr Seamus Scally, in June. Harry will bring awealth of experience and knowledge to theBoard. He is the former CEO of Cork & LimerickSavings Bank and of TSB Bank. He managed themerger and integration of TSB into the bankingarm of Irish Life & Permanent plc, developingPermanent TSB into one of Ireland’s top threebanks. Internationally, Harry served on theBoard of Royal Liver Assurance in Liverpoolfor five and a half years. He served as DeputyChairman for two years and now chairs theRoyal Liver Assurance Sub-fund with the RoyalLondon Group. He serves as a Non-executiveDirector of ICS Building Society (part of Bank ofIreland Group) and is a member of the NationalCompetitiveness Council.Harry Lorton, Chairman Johnson & PerrottConall Mac Aongusa, Transport & InnovationConall Mac Aongusa, Director ofTransport and Innovation Ltd, has beenelected as Chair of the Council of theAssociation for European Transport(AET) for a term of three years. He waselected at the recent meeting of theCouncil hosted by the Department ofTransport Tourism & Sport. He is thefirst Irish person to hold this position.The Association for European Transport(AET) is Europe’s leading organisationfor transport professionals for over 40years. It hosts the annual EuropeanTransport Conference (ETC) eachOctober, to be held in Frankfurtfrom 2013 -2015. ETC is the premiertransport conference for policymakers,practitioners and academicresearchers providing a forum fornetworking and information sharingon transport issues at a European andglobal level. Conall is outgoing Chair ofCork Chamber’s Economic & RegionalDevelopment Committee.

Cork Chamber is delighted to announcethe following Co-options to its Board of DirectorsOlan Wixted, Davy:Olan WixtedMargaret BrennanMargaret Brennan, AIB:Eimear O'Mullane joins the Chamber TeamEimear O'Mullaneworks for your business21

LINKPatrick Doyle, Membership Development Managere: patrick@corkchamber.ie or t: 021-4530145ArchitectsCatherine Troy Interior DesignInterior design consultancy service to the residential, commercial &hospitality sectorContact: Catherine TroyT: (087) 2103727E: catherine@catherinetroydesign.ieServicesPostdoc LtdProvides print & communications solutions using advancedtechniques & intelligent buying. Postdoc helps you achieve your printand communications goals cost effectively and with the best qualityContact: Donal BarryT: (01) 6316020E: donal@postdoc.ieW: www.postdoc.ieManufacturersAdattsi LtdDesign & manufacture a range of energy saving lighting fi xtures forthe commercial and industrial sectorsContact: Clive O'HaganT: (021) 4880000E: clive@adattsi.comW: www.adattsi.comHorizon FurnitureDesign & manufacture of high quality bespoke furniture forcorporate & domestic customersContact: Fergal O LearyT: (021) 4313313E: fergal.horizon@gmail.comW: www.horizonfurniture.ieBusiness Expo to cut through red tape and challenges facing SMEsHow is it that in times of economic turbulence, economies see asurge in start-up busi-nesses; budding entrepreneurs bringing newbusiness concepts to market and domestic companies looking toexport markets. Ireland is no exception to the rule, with redundancybeing the making of many former employees - it could be seen as thepositive flipside of recession.to give one-to-one strategic advice helping businesses realise theirpotential in Ireland, or in overseas markets. People invest in people …Un-derstanding the way of the business world and navigating it willgive any business an added advantage. At the Expo entrepreneurscan avail of a wealth of expertise, gain mar-ket share and learn how toovercome the key challenges.”It was announced that a first National Business Expo is to take placeon Friday, 8th March and Saturday 9th March 2013 in the RDS – Theexpo will be partnered by Grant Thornton and Bank of Ireland withVodafone Ireland as digital partner and the Irish Times and RTE RadioOne as media partners. The National Business Expo will supportIrish entrepreneurs in accelerating their businesses and will featureprac-tical advice with an emphasis on start-ups, small to mediumbusinesses and companies looking to export.2011 saw 2,200 Irish people start their own business each month1and while the country needs to embrace entrepreneurship andinnovation, accessing help can be a challenge for small businesses.According to Miriam O’Connor, National Business Expo, “As a startupourselves we have experienced first-hand the challenges newbusinesses face in terms of funding, advice and getting face-timewith the right people. We understand the practical difficulties thatIrish businesses need to overcome and have used this experience tode-velop the Expo as a practical, solution based event for businesses.”Encouraging figures last week from Enterprise Ireland report anet jobs gain of 3,804 for exporting companies last year mainly inthe software, internationally traded services, food, machinery andequipment businesses. With more expanding Irish companies lookingto foreign markets to survive or thrive, the National Business Expo willhelp companies exam-ine their approach to foreign markets throughbest advice on overseas marketing, brand localisation, overseastendering and grant information. The Expo will have four mainbusi-ness centres to include professional advice; business support,business services and most importantly finance covering seed capital,venture capital, loan capital, grant funding and regional based funds.Pat Burke of Grant Thornton which has built its reputation on helpingSMEs achieve their goals, comments, “This Expo is all about businesspracticality – it’s not about talk, it’s about doing. We will be on handBank of Ireland is to provide support and guidance by providingone-to-one advice to help borrowers. Gerry Prizemen, Head of SmallBusiness and Agriculture, Bank of Ireland comments, “Entrepreneursand business start-ups will receive specific finance advice to helpthem meet their business objectives. We have a relationship with onein three busi-nesses in Ireland and we want to support our customersto grow in their respective sec-tors. Economic recovery starts locallyand we encourage all attendees, whether start-ups, or establishedbusinesses, to come and talk to us openly about their banking needsas we are keen to provide credit to meet growth ambitions”. Bank ofIreland will host a range of seminars including Credit Clinics, workshops for women entrepreneurs, seminars on in-ternational trade andcurrency management and a workshop focussed on senior entrepreneurs.Vodafone Ireland as digital partner will run a series of Smart Start-Up Networking Sessions on ecommerce; social media; marketingand business productivity. Claire Reynolds, Small Business Manager,Vodafone Ireland said, “We’ve been listening to start-ups keen to buildbusiness knowledge, particularly around how technology can enablegrowth and so we have set up the Vodafone Smart Start Up networkin direct response. These sessions will give businesses unique access toadvice, equipping them with additional skills in areas such as ecommerceand social media, gearing for growth.”Who should come? Those who are starting a business, small tomedium sized businesses looking to expand, or those lookingto expand by taking on export markets. The National BusinessExpo takes place on Friday, 8 th March and Saturday, 9 th March2013. To find out more about exhibiting or attending, go to www.businessexpo.ie