Vodafone initiatives aim to provide start-ups with guidance

Vodafone has launched a series of initiatives aimed at Irish start-ups.

These include nationwide talks, mentoring workshops, and networking sessions with business experts.

The company plans to set up an online and mobile learning resource which will support the programme by providing first-hand insights from some of Ireland’s most successful entrepreneurs, who have signed up to impart their knowledge and experience.

Claire Reynolds, the small business manager at Vodafone Ireland, said: “We’ve been overwhelmed by the reaction of successful entrepreneurs who want to get involved in the programme and support emerging Irish start-ups.”

Vodafone Ireland says it established the Smart Start Up Network in direct response to small businesses looking for insight into how new technologies and communications platforms can support their business development and growth.

The programme will focus specifically on providing expertise on social media, marketing and management, and productivity. But more than the events, the programme will continue to live online and through the newly-developed smartphone app, the company added.

Speaking at the launch, technology entrepreneur Sean O’Sullivan, of SOSventures and Avego, who will speak at the first Smart Start Up Network, said: “Ireland is one of the world’s leading ‘business-friendly’ environments, and so start-ups have a particularly good chance of success here. Advice and guidance from mentors and accelerator programs are key to a start-up’s success, so Vodafone’s Smart Start-up Network can really help start-ups prosper.”