Food Works, a training and development programme aimed at finding and supporting Ireland’s next generation food entrepreneurs, is recruiting for its second year. Jointly run by Bord Bia, Enterprise Ireland and Teagasc, it is open to all “determined, ambitious and energetic individuals or companies with an interest in building an international food business and jobs in Ireland”.
Food Works 2013 seeks emerging entrepreneursTalya Lewin-Russell, co-founder of Superlife, Minister for Agriculture Simon Coveney TD with baby Oraya Lewin-Russell and Minister John Perry TD
Food Works, a training and development programme aimed at finding and supporting Ireland’s next generation food entrepreneurs, is recruiting for its second year. Jointly run by Bord Bia, Enterprise Ireland and Teagasc, it is open to all “determined, ambitious and energetic individuals or companies with an interest in building an international food business and jobs in Ireland”. In 2012, Food Works attracted almost 100 applications and the team is currently working with 11 new export-orientated Irish food and drink companies across the dairy, snacks, seafood and beverages sectors.
Each company is at a unique stage of development, but most are planning product launches later this year both in Ireland and overseas. In addition to support from the Irish advertising industry through IAPI, each successful participant has a dedicated business advisor, attends regular workshops with expert speakers and industry peers, has access to Bord Bia’s consumer and market insight, receives feasibility funding from Enterprise Ireland and technical R&D assistance from Teagasc.
An information day for prospective entrepreneurs will be held at the UCD Michael Smurfit Business School in Dublin on 13 April. At this one-day bootcamp, candidates will gain a better understanding of the programme and how to get involved; meet with representatives from Bord Bia, Enterprise Ireland and Teagasc and receive insight and expertise on how to review markets, examine consumer trends and provide technical advice.
Interested parties will then be asked to submit a detailed online application before 29 April. One-to-one interviews will be conducted in June to select up to 30 successful applicants who will receive one to one coaching; consumer insight consultancy; R&D assistance and a feasibility grant. Following this process, around 15 participants will move forward to the final stage to develop an investor-ready business plan.
Source: Business and Leadership – Food Works 2013 Seeks Emerging Entrepreneurs
