Women in Mayo with new businesses or business ideas are being encouraged to apply for funding under the ACORNS programme.
ACORNS is a development initiative to support female entrepreneurs living in rural Ireland, who wish to start and develop new businesses or have recently started a business.
Minister Michael Ring encouraged women in Mayo to apply, saying: "There has been an increase in early-stage female entrepreneurs in Ireland over the past year. On average, 850 women are starting a new business every month in Ireland. The rate of nascent female entrepreneurs in Ireland is now ranked fifth across Europe.
"Over 200 female entrepreneurs have taken part in ACORNS to date and 50 new participants are being sought for this year’s programme. The ACORNS programme is a tremendous opportunity for early stage female entrepreneurs in rural Ireland to help them realise their ambitions.
"I would urge those who have recently started or are about to start a new business to apply to participate in this exciting initiative, as it is an opportunity not to be missed.
"Each year, the participants give an overwhelming endorsement of the role ACORNS has played in supporting them to start and develop their businesses. I am delighted my Fine Gael colleague, Minister Michael Creed, is continuing to support this initiative through his Department’s Rural Innovation and Development Fund.”
Minister Ring concluded: “The programme will run over six months from October 2019 to April 2020. The deadline for application for this year’s cycle is September 20, 2019.
"Any woman with a new business based in rural Ireland — or an idea for a new venture they want to get off the ground — can get more information and download an application form at www.acorns.ie There is no charge for participation."
