Incubation centre opens for start-ups

CARLOW is aiming to become a hub for entrepreneurs with the opening of a business nurturing centre.

Minister for Enterprise Batt O’Keeffe yesterday opened an extension to Enterprise House, which serves as an incubation centre for start-up firms.

The event marked the completion of a process which began 10 years ago when Carlow County Enterprise Board (CCEB) approved funding towards the development of the community led project.

Chairman of Carlow Community Enterprise Centres, Michael Kelly said that Enterprise House focuses on networking events, mentoring of clients and the running of countywide projects.

“Our goal 10 years ago was the development of a supportive environment for new and sustainable enterprises in the region and that is still our goal.

“We have had a high number of enquiries and even though the extension is only open, we havelicense agreements with three new tenants,” Mr Kelly said.

The original centre opened in 2004 and its success led to a decision to extend the centre, which now provides 23 office units, hot desks and two training/conference rooms.

One tenant of Enterprise House was Netwatch Systems, who had five employees when they moved there in 2004 and now have more than 70 staff members.

Mr O’Keeffe said: “One of the first initiatives to commence at newly extended Enterprise House is the Fresh Start Programme, which provides training, hot desks and mentoring to recently unemployed participants who are developing a viable business idea.

“Demand for places exceeded availability and following an assessment process 13 people are now participating in this pilot programme.”