If Ireland is looking for a demonstration of phenomenal growth and positivity it doesn’t have to look much further than the Twitter group known as #SMEcommunity. On Friday January 27 at 11am, the County Arms Hotel in Birr, Co Offaly is hosting a free, offline event for members of #SMEcommunity. The first of its kind in Ireland, there will be representatives from the 32 counties.
What started only a mere eight months ago with a single tweet between two Irish business people, Debbie Harper (Tús Nua Designs ) and Kehlan Kirwan (FocuSMEIreland ), has now grown into an offline gathering incorporating all 32 counties. These SMEs are all committed to moving forward with their businesses whilst supporting others along the way.
The amount of advice, support, and business being generated within #SMEcommunity and its 1,100 followers has been extraordinary. This event is an extension of the connections which have been made online where there is such a willingness to help others and offer advice. The members were all unanimous in feeling a point had been reached where it would be good to meet face to face and have a totally positive start to 2012 for Irish small businesses.
The County Arms Hotel in Birr is providing the venue free of charge and is a perfect example of what #SMEcommunity is all about!
#SMEcommunity member Debbie Harper, said, “Being in business can be very daunting and it is good to know there are other businesses out there who have been or are in the same situation as you. As small businesses we do not have the access to big finances for social media, advertising, business mentors, and accountants. The #SMEcommunity helps bridge this gap and it’s great to be able to have an informal chat and obtain friendly advice when you need it.”
Dave Antrobus from Grafton Media said, “Grafton Media have been involved with the #SMECommunity for a while now and have supported other businesses and received support from the community. It’s a great way of networking, generating new business, and sharing ideas.”
The County Arms is offering special rates for an overnight stay. To book your place, please go to www.eventbrite.ie/event/2713358729 and state whether you want lunch in the hotel, along with your email address, business name, and location. This will enable a list to be made up to share with those coming so you can plan your networking and catch up with Twitter friends.
