National Export Hub briefs midlands SMEs on financing exports
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The Irish Exporters Association’s National Export Hub this morning held an Export Knowledge Clinic at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Northgate Street, Athlone. The event, run by the National Export Hub, an initiative created by the Irish Exporters Association and supported by ABP Food Group, AIB, DHL, Euler Hermes and PwC, and collaborators: Bord Bia and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, this morning held an interactive clinic for 25 first time and early stage exporters.
The clinic focused on exploring key issues, concerns and considerations around financing exports and internationalising business, including: financial planning; cost analysis; considerations when applying for a business loan; and credit risk / currency. Sponsors AIB were on hand to provide expert advice in all aspects of finance.
Event speakers:
James McGee, Managing Director, Athlone Extrusions
Gerard Corcoran, Head of AIB Meath, Westmeath & Longford
Simon McKeever, Chief Executive, Irish Exporters Association
This event offered an opportunity to learn about the range of supports available from the Irish Exporters Association, Bord Bia and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, interact with sponsors and partners of this initiative who all provide leading edge guidance, and in many cases, specific products to support exporters as they prepare for their initial export journey, support them to grow and develop in existing markets or enter new markets.
James McGee, Managing Director, Athlone Extrusions commented: “It is imperative that we encourage export-oriented businesses in Ireland, a major source of economic development and job creation. The Midlands is an extremely important export location for the country, given its thriving cluster of Life Sciences, Manufacturers and International Business Services. With its location in the heart of the country, it has the distinct advantage of being nationally connected with rail and road networks and internationally connected with proximity to the ports and three International Airports, at Dublin, Shannon & Knock.”
Speaking at the event today, Simon McKeever, Chief Executive, Irish Exporters Association commented: “This is the third year of the National Export Hub and we are delighted that it has been a resounding success. This initiative enables and empowers small and first time exporters to grow their business through exporting. The National Export Hub is a service offering dedicated to helping and supporting SME’s, whether that is assisting them on their current export journey or helping those new to exporting to advise and support them as they look to scale their business by entering new markets. The IEA look forward to continuing the great work that has been achieved to date with the partners of the National Export Hub.”
Gerard Corcoran, Head of AIB Meath, Westmeath & Longford stated: “AIB is delighted to be part of the National Export Hub as it gives exporters an insight into what they can expect on their export journey. These roundtable clinics provide SMEs with practical export-related information, support and guidance that are hugely valuable whether they are new to exporting or looking to enter new markets.”