The Midlands Innovation and Research Centre at Athlone Institute of Technology is now recruiting for the next Midlands & West Enterprise Programme commencing in April 2010.

The Midlands & West Enterprise Programme is a one-year programme that provides entrepreneurs with the business skills, networks, facilities and supports necessary to navigate the business start-up process. Participants may also apply to Enterprise Ireland for CORD salary support.

The MIRC is now inviting applications for MWEP 2010. Participants should have an innovative business idea with growth and export potential. They should be graduates (diploma level or higher) with a number of years’ industry experience and have the enthusiasm and drive necessary to develop and grow a successful business.

 
Ten high potential entrepreneurs from the Midlands are participating on the current MWEP – products being developed include imaging software, a logistics portal, innovative packaging and e-learning solutions.

Claire Quinn’s company, Peat Treat, specialises in the development of peat products for therapeutic and cosmetic treatments. According to Claire Quinn, "As a start up company, the MWEP provides us with state of the art facilities and a comprehensive business support programme while Athlone Institute of Technology provides a ready-made research capability for the development of our products. The Programme provides the time and space to carry out proper validation of the business idea."

According to MIRC Manager, Michael Lonergan, “If you are a prospective entrepreneur with industry experience and an innovative business idea, the MWEP will provide you with the business skills and support necessary to transform your idea into a successful business.”

See: www.mirc.ie/mwep

Contact:	Michael Lonergan
	090-6471882
	mlonergan@ait.ie