The skills being piloted in a new Kilkenny-based business creativity project could be the difference between survival and going out of business for some companies, according to its organisers.
The Creativity in Micro Enterprises (CIME ) project is a three year project launched recently in Kilkenny’s Set Theatre.
The project hopes to use some of the world’s most creative thinkers and innovative business approaches to help participating companies develop new strategies to tackle business issues.
“Creativity is not limited to those in the arts and we’re passionate about spreading the benefits to companies across all sectors,” said project manager Deirdre Doherty.
“Creativity and innovation can help business owners and managers who are facing challenges on a scale and complexity that has never before been experienced.
“Creative and innovative thinking can provide the key to unlocking new ideas, products, services, and solutions that will save jobs and help get us out of the current difficult business situation.”
More than 75 companies throughout the southeast, including Kilkenny, are set to take part in the project, which is being promoted by the South-East Regional Authority (SERA ) in partnership with Kilkenny County Enterprise Board, and is part-funded under the EU’s Ireland-Wales INTERREG 4A programme.
The three-year project is part of an ambitious plan to grow the southeast region as a hub for creative thinking and innovation in business.
As part of the initiative, participating companies will link with counterparts in Wales where a series of creative ‘master workshops’ are being held.
Networks of companies will be equipped with practical skills in creatively re-engineering business processes and adopting new ways of undertaking business development and expansion. These networks are being established in each of counties Kilkenny, Carlow, Waterford, Wexford, and South Tipperary.
The project will equip companies in the region with the necessary tools to compete in the current economic climate, according to John Cummins, cathaoirleach of the SERA.
“We can all point to examples where creativity and innovation, new ways of thinking and working has led to huge international business success,” he said.
“This project will start at a very practical level and hopefully in time lead to increased success and rapid growth for participants.”
Companies interested in getting involved can contact Deidre Doherty on 087 7622202 or visit www.cimeproject.com
