Big change for small companies in Laois who want to go international says Charlie Flanagan

Small companies in Laois will benefit from change which will make more companies eligible for Government export grants, according to Fine Gael TD Charlie Flanagan.

Deputy Flanagan was speaking after the extension of Local Enterprise Offices (LEOs) to target new exporters. Dep Flanagan said this change will significantly strengthen small companies in Laois who want to grow internationally and evolve their business.

“Local Enterprise Offices are a crucial network and will now target new exporters by providing direct grants to firms who employ more than ten people and are operating in the manufacturing and internationally traded services sectors.

“The move announced by my Fine Gael colleague and Tánaiste, Leo Varadkar, aims to develop the range of advisory services available to all companies with up to 50 employees, including those operating in the locally traded sector.

“Last year, 7,440 new jobs were created by LEO-backed client companies. Furthermore, 35,729 people were employed by 7,158 small businesses and start-ups that had received financial assistance from LEOs.

“LEOs and Enterprise Ireland are committed to working with companies of all sizes to assist them on their journey and further our regional growth her in Laois," said Dep Flanagan.

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The Laois Offaly TD said Fine Gael is backing business and helping companies deal with cost-of-living challenges.