Up to €25,000 available under latest Online Retail Scheme
Minister of State for Employment Affairs and Retail Business, Neale Richmond, TD, today encouraged retailers in Louth to apply for funding to enhance their online presence and increase online sales.
In the latest round of the Online Retail Scheme, which is funded by the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment and administered by Enterprise Ireland, retailers can access up to €25,000 in grant funding to strengthen their ecommerce capabilities.
“An online presence is no longer optional for many businesses, it is a key part of any business model and the benefits are huge” Minister Richmond said.
“While it may be an intimidating prospect for some, the Government is determined to support businesses on this journey. The Online Retail Scheme is there to help ease this transition and I am delighted that it is again open for applications.”
Since 2018, the Scheme has allocated over €28m supporting more than 700 projects from Irish retailers, 70% of whom are based outside Dublin.
“Businesses who have participated in the Scheme have reported increased sales, in Ireland and abroad, new employees and an enhanced digital skill set among their current employees” Minister Richmond said. “Clearly, digitalisation makes a tangible difference to the success of Irish businesses.
“I would encourage all eligible retailers to strongly consider the benefits of this Scheme and apply for funding.”
The Scheme provides direct financial support to retail companies to develop a more competitive online business offering to complement their in-store offering.
Teri Smith, Manager, Retail, Consumer and Online Department, with Enterprise Ireland said: “The Online Retail Scheme is making a real difference to the bottom line of hundreds of retailers across the country and has potential to open up new markets for the retail sector. An enhanced online presence not only boosts sales in the short-term, it also brings longer-term benefits, allowing retailers to better use data to understand customer needs and manage customer relationships.”
The Online Retail Scheme opens for applications today, 4 April, and closes on 3 May. For further information and how to apply here.
