Elevate programme to help first-time exporters

The programme was developed in response to research carried out by InterTradeIreland which revealed that small businesses which are not exporting are hit hardest by the recession.

Fully funded by InterTradeIreland, will provide eligible companies with support up to €11,000 to access approved industry marketing experts to help them identify new cross-border markets, customers and ultimately win new business.

"Our research shows that 54pc of businesses have been severely affected by the slump in domestic demand due to the economic downturn and that exporters are significantly outperforming those companies which are not dependent on their local market," said Liam Nellis, CEO for InterTradeIreland.

"In response to this, we developed the Elevate programme, in partnership with small firms, to encourage small businesses to look to new markets across the island which could potentially increase their sales and help them to recover and grow. This is a first step process in an export path for companies and will open avenues of opportunity to the UK, Europe and beyond."

Elevate facilitates access to advice from a trade and marketing expert who will develop and implement a sales plan for a business. The programme consists of an assessment of readiness to enter a new market and practical assistance on generating sales.

Crossogue Preserves - first Elevate approval

The first small business which has just been approved for the Elevate programme is Tipperary firm Crossogue Preserves. The company produces a range of hand made artisan preserves for restaurants, delicatessens, craft shops, catering companies and chefs.

It has not yet explored the Northern market for its products and hopes to develop a sales development plan through InterTradeIreland's Elevate programme to identify new potential customers and sales from Northern Ireland.