Trinity College Dublin runs a programme for SME owners and managers who want to grow their export markets.
The Trinity International Growth Programme, which was designed by the university’s business school, features classes, case study sessions, seminars, guest talks, workshops and a mentored project.
SMEs with export potential can apply. The course is open to companies – with a turnover greater than €500,000 and up to €25 million, with 10 to 50 employees – that are developing new products or entering new markets.
Professor Michael Flynn, director of the programme, says the first programme is now complete, and interested SME owners can apply for the next one, starting in 2017.
“The first programme was a great success,” says Prof. Flynn. “It was very focused and allowed participants to step back and see what was going on in their businesses.
“There’s an old saying – ‘Business owners are often too busy working in their businesses and don’t spend enough time working on their business’. This programme focuses on helping business owners develop concrete strategies for growth.”
“Always remember, a threat can also be an opportunity”
What are the typical difficulties Irish companies face when they start exporting?
“The challenges are often in the approach. What this programme offers SME owners is the chance to step back from the business and re-calculate – it’s time for them to look at what they do in a more strategic and analytical way. It’s also a very hands-on course, where business performance coaches will spend time with the owners at their place of work. The programme runs for six days over a period of three months.”
The Brexit threat
What does Prof. Flynn think will happen to Irish exports should Britain vote to leave the EU?
“No one knows exactly what will happen and what the situation will be. Most leading economists believe the short to medium
