LEO - Waterford City & County Council

9th October 2025

By Waterford City & County Council

LEO announces 2025 Glas Award winners!

The 3rd Glas awards, in association with Waterford City and County Council recognise and celebrate the micro businesses in County Waterford who have made significant advances in bringing green principles into their business models. None more so than this year’s winners, Blossom and Berry, and The Hat Maker.

The Green Micro Enterprise of the Year, open to all with employees of 10 or less was won by Blossom and Berry who impressed the judges with its, “Commitment to mitigating climate change by integrating green principles in every aspect of its operations.” Nestled in the picturesque town of Lismore, County Waterford, Blossom & Berry is a sustainable florist.

The Green SME of the Year, open to those between 11 and 50 employees was won by The Hat Maker. This new hotel in Dungarvan is a refurbishment of an existing protected structure. It achieved an A2 rating, ensuring sustainable reuse of this historic building in the town centre.

Speaking at the prize giving Waterford City and County Mayor, Councillor Seamus Ryan said, “These awards are another opportunity to reward businesses for their climate actions. Today we recognise two leaders in the field in our county. I’d like to congratulate both businesses in what is a thoroughly deserved accolade.

“The Glas awards and the actions of the winners mark another step towards Waterford’s green targets. The link between the Council and business in Waterford has never been more important.”

Blossom & Berry is actively working to reduce its carbon intensity and move closer to carbon neutrality. The sustainability efforts include reducing its carbon footprint through energy conservation via LED alternatives, water conservation and solar power. As owner Claudia O’Neill says, “The sustainability initiatives we’ve implemented have created profoundly positive impacts on both our business operations and brand identity.”

David Burke and his team at The Hat Maker brought a dilapidated building back in to use in Dungarvan town centre. The 16 elegantly appointed rooms offer an intimate and exclusive experience. Repurposing, repairing and refurbishing, every element of the creation and running of the hotel has a sustainable ethos. As Davis says, “As well as being the right thing to do, it reduces costs significantly when fully committed to and done properly. It also acts as a marketing tool for our business as it is important to the consumer segment we target.”

Each winner received a cash prize of €2,500 and a Glas trophy, designed and created by Brendan O’Donnell. The awards have been solely made from reclaimed and recycled materials. Solid oak is from cabinet drawers, while the plastic is a mix of milk bottles, lids from drinks containers from a cafe and hygiene product drums from a dairy farm.

Head of Enterprise at the Local Enterprise Office Waterford, Gareth Evans was delighted with the quality of entries for the awards, “The LEO wants to show other businesses that investment in this area is not only the right thing to do, but the smart thing too. Every entry to these awards will tell you that they have reaped the benefits of their investment.

“LEO Waterford has numerous supports available to help businesses with their sustainable journey. The Green for Business Programme is a two day consultancy programme that provides a Green Consultant to work with a business, helping to identify the steps they can take in being more sustainable. The business will then be issued with a Green for Business report and most importantly, all costs are covered by the Local Enterprise Office.

“Following this, if the business is considering making changes they may avail of our Energy Efficiency Grant which offers 75% of eligible costs to a maximum of €10,000 towards the upgrades.”

For further information on the Glas and other Local Enterprise Office Awards, follow this link www.localenterprise.ie/Waterford, contact LEO Waterford at 051 849905 or email info@leo.waterfordcouncil.ie

9th June 2025

By Waterford City & County Council

2025 Waterford Digital Awards Overall Winner

Antiques Ireland 2025 Waterford Digital Awards Overall Winner Waterford Local Enterprise Office, together with Waterford City and County Council, are pleased to announce Antiques Ireland as their 2025 Waterford Digital Awards Overall Winner.

The awards recognise and reward SMEs based in Waterford who have developed their ecommerce and digital platforms as part of their product offering. The Awards were open to all businesses with less than 50 full time employees.

Presenting the awards, Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. Jason Murphy was impressed with the development of Waterford’s digital footprint, “Digital marketing has empowered local businesses here in Waterford. From artisan food producers reaching new markets via Instagram, to tourism campaigns using immersive video to draw global eyes to our beautiful coastlines and historic streets. Digital tools have allowed our community to connect with the world in a faster and smarter way, and more authentically than ever before.”

Antiques Ireland was first established in Kilmacthomas, County Waterford in 1949 by the late Patrick Keighery as RJK Antiques. Rody Keighery, his son, took over the business in the 1980s and created this renowned antiques shop and auction room with his wife Anne. The business has built a solid reputation, both locally and nationally, based on expertise, experience and integrity. In recent years Rody’s son, Thomas, has joined the business and added digital platforms to the promotion and execution of browsing and buying the Antiques Ireland collections.

ENDS

27th March 2025

By Waterford City & County Council

Calling all Waterford entrepreneurs

The Local Enterprise Office Waterford has launched its Pitch Perfect 2025 competition for Start Ups. It’s calling all those with a new innovative idea or who have recently started a business to apply today.

Cash and industry prizes to be won!

Local Enterprise Office (LEO) Waterford, SETU Xcelerate Centre, and Boxworks Co Working Space have joined forces to deliver a new Start Up Competition for those with an innovative business idea or those already in business trading less than 18 months.

Previous winners include Praveen Kaur, founder of Uoto, a peer-to-peer car rental company that aims to revolutionise the way people rent cars at airports, and Michael Power, founder of Greenfeed, an animal feed additive which dramatically reduces methane emissions from ruminant species (such as cattle) currently farmed in Ireland. Now it’s your turn to apply.

The programme invites applications for two categories:

1. Best Business Idea

2. Best Start-Up Business (trading < 18 months)

Successful applicants will be selected for a Business Bootcamp where participants will be guided through the initial stages of developing their idea or business. Participants will fine tune their pitch before presenting to the judges who will select the top pitches, with prize winners announced on the day. The bootcamp will be delivered by the Entrepreneurs Academy for free to a limited number of participants over the course of a day and a half, on 25th – 26th April 2025. You must be able to attend on these dates to take part in the competition.

Day one of the programme will take place at SETU Xcelerate Centre, SETU West Campus, Carriganore, Waterford, home to some of the most innovative companies in digital technology. Programme mentors will work with participants to review their idea, choose the correct business model, investigate market trends, plan the route to market and develop a business pitch.

Day two will be on location at Boxworks, Waterford’s coworking space for tech and creative industries, and hub for smart-thinking entrepreneurs, startups and ambitious small businesses. Participants will fine tune their pitch before presenting to the judges who will select the top pitches, with prize winners announced on the day.

Spaces are limited and those interested are invited to complete an expression of interest to be part of the event before 5pm, 14th April 2025.

For more information visit https://www.localenterprise.ie/Waterford/

12th March 2025

By Waterford City & County Council

Deep Digital Solutions wins Waterford National Enterprise Award

Deep Digital Solutions, a Waterford company specialising in digitalization and data services has been named as Waterford’s Enterprise Award winner and will go on to represent Waterford at the 25th National Enterprise Awards which will take place in the Mansion House, Dublin, on May 22nd 2025.

The announcement was made as part of the Local Enterprise Office’s Local Enterprise Week at the Mayor’s Parlour on Friday March 7th.

Deep Digital Solutions Group is a leading provider of digitalization and data services, specializing in transforming businesses through innovative data lifecycle solutions. Headquartered in Dungarvan, Co Waterford it leverages cutting-edge technologies and industry-specific expertise to optimize operations, enhance efficiency, and drive success for clients. From harnessing the power of data analytics to streamlining digital processes, it empowers organizations to thrive in the dynamic landscape of the digital era.

The aim of the National Enterprise Awards is to spotlight, showcase, encourage and support a culture of enterprise and entrepreneurship in our communities in Ireland, to promote entrepreneurship and to celebrate the achievement of the core client portfolio of the LEOs.

Marli Products Ltd. also won ‘Best Established Business’ 2025 at the NEA awards for Waterford.

Marli Products Ltd is an injection moulding company based in Waterford City, supplying high-quality products across a wide range of industries, including construction, food, healthcare, agriculture, automotive, and sports, among others.

Founded by Liam Murray and Martin Hamm, Marli Products Ltd goes beyond manufacturing, offering assembly, packaging, and warehousing services to its clients.

Deputy Mayor of Waterford City and County Cllr. Adam Wyse, who presented the award was impressed with the winner, saying, “Waterford has evolved into a dynamic centre for manufacturing, tech, pharma, and services industries. Innovative companies like Deep Digital are shaping the future and will be key drivers of Waterford’s growth in the years to come

“I’d like to wish Eoghan and the Deep Digital team the best of luck as they go on to represent Waterford at the National Enterprise Finals.”

Gareth Evans, Head of Enterprise at Local Enterprise Office Waterford, congratulated the winners, “The National Enterprise Awards are very much a benchmark for excellence for small businesses across the country. The breadth of industries within our list of finalists is a reflection of the range of services the Local Enterprise Office provides. We’re very excited and delighted to be putting forward such a worthy winner to represent our county at the National Finals.”

Eoghan Moloney, Chief Operating Officer at Deep Digital Solutions, was obviously delighted to win the award, “Have only been in business for a year, we’re thrilled to be rewarded in this manner. The calibre of business shortlisted today is amazing and a great reflection on our county. We look forward to representing Waterford at the National Finals.”

The Waterford Enterprise Awards took place as part of a very successful Local Enterprise Week programme of events. There were over 300 events which took place across the country, run by the 31 Local Enterprise Offices from March 3rd to 7th .

5th March 2025

By Waterford City & County Council

Tramore business wins Senior Student Enterprise Award

Tramore Sea Salt Spray from Ard Scoil na Mara wins Best Senior Student Enterprise in Waterford and qualifies for the National Student Enterprise Finals. Joining the Tramore business is Protein Pros from Mercy Convent secondary school, who won Best Junior Student Enterprise.

The county finals took place on Tuesday March 5th at the Park Hotel in Dungarvan. Co-ordinated by the Local Enterprise Office Waterford, the final took place during Local Enterprise Week. The competition is the most successful programme of its kind in the country. 27,000 budding entrepreneurs from 380 secondary schools across the country have been running their own enterprises, with help from their teachers and Local Enterprise Offices.

Tramore Sea Salt Spray, winner of the Senior award, created, produced and sold a unique product to enhance hair texture and volume by using natural mineral-rich sea salt, giving your hair a beachy, tousled look while also nourishing and strengthening it. The team comprised of Ben Phelan, Arlo Barron, Donnacha Flannery and Sam Ahern.

While the first Junior winners in Waterford in nearly 10 years produced a product similar to protein balls, however they made various different protein shapes instead. They offered multiple flavours including biscoff, dairy milk, and peanut butter in the shape of stars and hearts. The team included Sophie Wall, Emily O’Regan, Casey Wyse and Layla Costello.

The Waterford Student Enterprise Programme started in September with over 1,000 students from 14 schools in Waterford City and County. They created their businesses, developed, branded, promoted and sold. But most importantly they learned what it felt like to run their own business.

Finally, 100 students represented 12 schools in Waterford County competed in the Waterford Student Enterprise Final on Tuesday March 4th at the Park Hotel in Dungarvan. 36 businesses in total, shortlisted from a total of 350 who commenced the competition in September, presented their business plans and challenged for the top prize in the county section of the Student Enterprise Programme.

Tramore Sea Salt Spray and Protein Pros will represent Waterford at the National Finals on May 8th, taking on 34 other businesses, the best of the rest of the country.

National finalists from all over the country will set-up enterprise displays before taking part in a series of judges’ interviews. The judging panels take numerous factors into account, such as business reporting, innovation, market research, risk management and finances.

Praising the teachers and local schools involved in the programme, Gareth Evans, Head of Enterprise at the Local Enterprise Office Waterford, said: “We run a very successful and popular Student Enterprise Programme here in Waterford, thanks to the support of the many schools and teachers in the area. The Student Enterprise Awards give local teenagers a taste of what it’s like to run their own business and to be their own boss. Along the way, the programme helps them develop important entrepreneurship skills, learning about sales, innovation, managing finances and finding new markets. Learning the fundamentals of running a business now, will help them throughout their studies and career.”

Further information about May’s National Finals is available through www.studententerprise.ie, which also has free resources and video tutorials for students and teachers for the 2025/2026 programme.

For more information, please contact your Local Enterprise Office at 35 the Mall in Waterford City or Civic Offices in Dungarvan. Alternatively, you can email info@leo.waterfordcouncil.ie .

Ends

2025 winners’ list:

Best Display: – School: Abbey Community College Business: Beessentials

Best Innovation: – School: Newtown Secondary School Business: Nubus

Students’ Choice: – School: Ard Scoil na Mara, Tramore Business: Tramore Sea Glass & Shell Art

Best Interview: – School: Blackwater Community School Business: M A R S

Best use of Social Media: – School: St. Augustine’s College Business: Knot Kidding

Most Sustainable: – School: Waterpark College Business: Return to Raffle

Merit Award: – School: Waterpark College Business: Glisten Ireland

Junior Winner: – School: Our Lady Of Mercy Secondary School Business: Protein Pro’s

Senior 3rd: – School: Ard Scoil na nDeise Business: LA Slick Stick

Senior 2nd: – School: Ard Scoil na Mara, Tramore Business: Tramore Sea Glass & Shell Art

Senior 1st:- School: Ard Scoil na Mara, Tramore Business: Tramore Sea Salt Spray

Captions:

DSCF0428: Sophie Wall, Emily O’Regan, Casey Wyse and Layla Costello and their business Protein Pros from Mercy Convent Secondary School, Waterford receiving the Junior Student Enterprise Programme award from Councillor Damien Geoghegan and Gareth Evans, Head of Enterprise Waterford LEO at the final of the Waterford Student Enterprise Programme in the Park Hotel, Dungarvan, hosted by the Local Enterprise Office – David Clynch

DSCF0445: Donnacha Flannery, Arlo Barron, Ben Phelan and Rob Kenny and their business Tramore Sea Salt Spray from Ard Scoil na Mara Tramore, receiving the Senior Student Enterprise Programme award from Councillor Damien Geoghegan and Gareth Evans, Head of Enterprise Waterford LEO with judges Dermot Walsh, Sharon O’Brien, Jamie Whitty and David Walsh at the final of the Waterford Student Enterprise Programme in the Park Hotel, Dungarvan, hosted by the Local Enterprise Office – David Clynch

18th February 2025

By Waterford City & County Council

Start strong, grow smart, and thrive global at Local Enterprise Week 2025.

Waterford Local Enterprise Office has announced a programme of 24 events across 5 days during Local Enterprise Week 2025, taking place for Waterford City and County businesses from March 3rd to March 7th.

This year’s Local Enterprise Week will feature many new events including informative and engaging workshops, seminars, presentations and advice clinics aimed at local businesses, whether in pre-start, start-up or as an established business looking to grow.

The Local Enterprise Office has gathered experts in finance, marketing, social media, A.I. and sustainability. There are networking events, advice clinics and regional business awards, all crammed into one week at the start of March.

While favourites like the ever popular ‘Social Media Mash-Up’ returns to the Local Enterprise Week there are new and innovative events such as a Digital Innovation Clinic with the Walton Institute. You’ll get the opportunity to discuss your Digital Innovation project with an expert from the Walton Institute and explore how their expertise could potentially assist you to realise your ambition.

This clinic will explore how your limited company could avail of an Innovation voucher to access up to €5000 worth of expert time with Walton institute to work on a project in areas such as software development, communications services, immersive technologies, artificial intelligence and machine learning, data analytics, future networks, digital platforms, and Internet of Things (IoT).

The ’Get Exporting Workshop’ is an excellent opportunity for businesses looking to scale up and seek new markets. It gives a practical step-by-step approach to get started exporting. This includes identifying target markets, currency exchange, invoicing, and trade finance, not to mention access to grants, trade missions, and expert advice.

Tuesday March 4th celebrates the future of enterprise in Waterford with the Student Enterprise Programme County final in the Park Hotel. 36 businesses from 12 schools will compete on the day for a place at the National Finals in May.

Two events not to be missed are, the Grow Digital Workshop which will assist you in securing up to €5,000 to transform your business, and an extremely interesting Going Green workshop which will help unlock an energy efficiency grant of €10,000.

The Local Enterprise Office also celebrates International Women’s Day with Waterford Chamber, Dungarvan Chamber and Network Waterford supporting three events across the week.

Head of Enterprise at Local Enterprise Office Waterford Gareth Evans is looking forward to what promises to be a busy and productive week, “Local Enterprise Week is the perfect opportunity for many businesses to dip into a specific area of interest and gather information on a topic that may be relevant to their business now or in the future. It also provides the perfect opportunity for someone who may be interested in starting a business to get an idea of some of the key areas of focus and how to take those first steps.

“Waterford Local Enterprise Office is delighted to work in conjunction with various key business support organisations and state agencies, including Enterprise Ireland, Network Waterford, Dungarvan Chamber and Waterford Chamber, to provide a programme that gives start-ups and small businesses opportunities to help them on the path to growth.”

To register for Local Enterprise Week events taking place in Waterford city and county from March 3rd to 7th, visit https://www.localenterprise.ie/!AK56SF . Most events are completely free of charge while some have a nominal booking fee. As with every year, many of the events are expected to book up quickly so early booking is strongly advised.

2nd October 2024

By Waterford City & County Council

LEO announces Glas Award winners!

Local Enterprise Office, Waterford celebrates this year’s Glas Award winners, DHB Architects and Clem Jacob Hire

The awards, in association with Waterford City and County Council recognise and celebrate the micro businesses in County Waterford who have made significant advances in bringing green principles into their business models. None more so than DHB Architects and Clem Jacob Hire.

The Green Micro Enterprise of the Year, open to all with employees of 10 or less was won by DHB Architects, who impressed the judges with, “The conscientious way in which the business not only prioritises sustainable practices in its own company, but also in the work it does for its clients.”

The Green SME of the Year, open to those between 11 and 50 employees was won by Clem Jacob Hire. The judges were extremely impressed with the quality of entries, saying, “The standard of entries this year is only matched by the innovation they all brought to their sustainable practices. These companies are an inspirations to businesses in Waterford and beyond.”

DHB Architects has refurbished and continuing to invest in its existing ‘protected structured building’ for use as its offices in Waterford City centre thus supporting sustainable town centre first policies. The heating system in the building does not use fossil fuels, lights are all LED and the business uses two fully electric cars for office use to bring staff to sites that are not accessible by public transport. The company recently won national awards for work in sustainable regeneration of buildings and town centres.

Clem Jacob Hire’s entire fleet of machines are now running on HVO fuel (Hydro treated vegetable oil ) instead of diesel. Where possible a big part of its hire fleet is now hybrid, thus runs on battery & HVO. The company has a bank of solar panels planned for its workshop which will produce power for charging the hybrid machines. All company cars are now electric & will be charged by power produced with solar panels. It even collects rain water for power washing its machines.

Waterford City and County Mayor Cllr. Jason Murphy spoke at the event and presented the trophies, saying, “These businesses are all leaders in their sector. Even getting shortlisted for these awards is a fantastic recognition for them and a reflection on how farsighted they are.

“I’m sure it’s this awareness that drives them to invest in sustainable policies within their business. Waterford City and County Council understands this and that is why it has focused so much on environmental policies over the past number of years and will continue to do so in the future.”

Clem Jacob was thrilled to win, “Our green and sustainable practices are more than just window dressing. They are integral to every part of our business. It’s more than just the ‘right thing to do’, the policies we’ve implemented and changes we’ve made to the running of the business really save money, in the short term as well as the long term. Getting an award for these practices is a wonderful endorsement of everything we do.”

Head of Enterprise at the Local Enterprise Office Waterford, Gareth Evans was delighted with the quality of entries for the awards, “Looking at the shortlist for this year’s awards we have such an impressive and diverse collection of businesses in Waterford, from the arts and design to products, plant and spirits. It’s a true reflection of how dynamic the Waterford business offering is.

“The Local Enterprise Office created these awards to promote sustainability in business in Waterford. They also promote what the LEO is offering businesses, showcase what is currently happening in the county, rewards those who are investing in their own and everyone’s future and most importantly they encourage others to do likewise.

“The LEO wants to show other businesses that investment in this area is not only the right thing to do, but the smart thing too, for every business. Every finalist today will tell you that they have reaped the benefits of their investment, and it’s just the tip of the iceberg. We want these awards to grow and have more and more entries every year.”

12th August 2024

By Waterford City & County Council

Glas Awards Launched!

Local Enterprise Office, Waterford launches the 2^nd Glas Awards, promoting sustainability in business in Waterford.

The awards, in association with Waterford City and County Council aim to recognise and celebrate micro businesses in County Waterford who have made significant advances in bringing green principles into their business model.

Launched by Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. Jason Murphy, Head of Enterprise at the Local Enterprise Office Waterford, Gareth Evans and Climate Action Coordinator with Waterford City and County Council, Gráinne Kennedy, these awards will showcase what Waterford business is doing to adopt sustainability policies, in a practical sense.

The awards are open to small and medium sized businesses based in Waterford County. The Green Micro Enterprise of the Year is open to all with employees of 10 or less, while the Green SME of the Year is open to those between 11 and 50 employees.

The Mayor sees this as another step towards Waterford’s green targets, “Waterford City and County Council adopted its Climate Action Plan in February 2024. The plan sets out how the Council will work to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from our own operations and in the services that we provide to the people of Waterford. Climate will be a consideration in all Council projects going forward from looking at energy efficiency to reducing waste. Every aspect of the community has a role to play, and these awards will highlight and reward the businesses who have started to play their part.”

Each winner will receive a cash prize of €2,500 and a themed trophy.

Gareth Evans is looking forward to seeing what work has been completed in the last 12 months, “We were thrilled with the level of entries in the first year of these awards. I am sure this year we will see even more entries. The quality of projects last year was really good, so this year’s applicants have a lot to live up to, but we know it will be very competitive and even better this year.

“Companies across Waterford County continue to make an extraordinary contribution and commitment towards growing a greener future. I really hope that these awards will demonstrate to all companies what can be done to improve sustainability for all businesses in Waterford and challenge each one of us to continue on our green journey to not only benefit future generations, but to improve our businesses now and participate fully in the green economy.”

Gráinne Kennedy is optimistic for the future, “Waterford business is taking on the challenge of reducing greenhouse gas emissions in their operations, to make Waterford a sustainable place to work and do business. The Glas Awards is a great opportunity to showcase all that these businesses are doing”

The entry portal https://bit.ly/GlasAwards is now open on Waterford’s Local Enterprise Office website and remains so until 6^th September 2024. The Glas Awards Final which will be held in Grow HQ, Waterford City on 1^st October 2024.

For further information follow this link www.localenterprise.ie/Waterford, contact LEO Waterford at 051 849905 or email info@leo.waterfordcouncil.ie

ENDS

Photo by Patrick Browne: Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. Jason Murphy, Head of Enterprise at the Local Enterprise Office Waterford, Gareth Evans and Climate Action Coordinator with Waterford City and County Council, Gráinne Kennedy.

9th May 2024

By Waterford City & County Council

Minister Higgins visits Local Enterprise office in Waterford

Minister of State for Employment Affairs and Retail Business, Emer Higgins T.D., visited the Waterford Local Enterprise Offices (LEOs) last Thursday May 2^nd.

This was the Minister’s first visit to a Local Enterprise Office. On arrival the Minister was greeted by Deputy Mayor, Declan Doocey, Head of Enterprise, Gareth Evans and Senior Enterprise Development Officer Jacqui Gaule. The Minister was then introduced to council officials and members of the LEO team as well as some of their client companies.

Minister Higgins said:

“I am delighted to visit the Waterford Local Enterprise Office and meet with the LEO teams and their clients. This is my first opportunity to visit a Local Enterprise Office as Minister for State and it is a pleasure to see the hard work that is happening on the ground and to see first hand the work the LEOs and the Department are doing to support these businesses.”

The Minister was then introduced to LEO clients who were invited in to showcase their businesses. Mark Bergin of Coffeehouse Lane explained how they sell their own artisan manufactured, ethically sourced premium hand-roasted coffee through independent retail stores, the food service sector and SuperValu. Coffeehouse Lane were the winners of a Waterford Glas Awards in 2023.

Minister Higgins then met Stephanie Wickham of ExPat Ltd., who specialise in international tax advice across multiple jurisdictions. ExPat Taxes were the overall winner of the LEO Waterford Digital Awards in 2023 and will represent Waterford at this year’s National Enterprise Awards which are taking place in the Mansion House later this month.

The Minister was introduced to silversmith Gene O’Shea who specialises in quality, handmade pure silver jewellery. Each piece is designed and created by Gene and is hallmarked at Dublin Castle. Minister Higgins then spoke with Tony Hayes of the Irish Handmade Glass Company. They specialise in coloured, mouth blown and hand-cut crystal and their products range from tableware to lighting and decorative ornaments to jewellery. They also work with leading companies designing corporate awards and gifts for events.

The Minister met with Keith Molloy of Molloy’s Butchers Ardkeen, also a winner at the 2023 Waterford Glas Awards. The company deliver produce in reusable crates with no single use cardboard or plastics accepted with all packaging either 100% home compostable or infinitely recyclable. Molloy’s encourage their customers to bring their own reusable containers and offer an incentive of 25% off to encourage this practice.

Minister Higgins then spoke with Dermot Harrington and Ken O’Shea of Reso Health. The company are developing a platform to provide precision nutrition for professionals in the workplace. This platform will combine an onsite dispenser with an employee-controlled app to deliver a range of nutritional supplements targeted specifically to the user.

The Minister finished her visit with a short walk to Strong Roots Jewellery where she met owner Michelle Dunne, an artist and metalworker who creates bespoke jewellery. Using the Celtic Tree Calendar as her inspiration her jewellery is based on the strong roots that shape us, nature, family, friends and hobbies.

On the conclusion of her visit, Minister Higgins said:

“The hard work of the LEO office here in the Waterford can be seen in every business I have met today. It is fantastic to see that the strategy of my Department and the LEO Network has helped create an environment in which these business can thrive.”

2nd May 2024

By Waterford City & County Council

Greenfeed wins the 3rd annual Pitch Perfect competition

LEO Pitch Perfect 2024

Greenfeed is the successful 2024 Waterford Pitch Perfect business. The announcement was made by Jacqui Gaule, Senior Enterprise Development Officer, Local Enterprise Office Waterford.

Greenfeed has created a new animal feed additive which will dramatically reduce methane emissions from ruminant species (such as cattle) currently farmed in Ireland. Animal methane emissions are the largest single producer of Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions in Ireland accounting for 24% of all emissions released each year.

Michael Power of Greenfeed really enjoyed the process and was delighted to become the overall winner, “The competition was very enjoyable, particularly to see so many wonderful home-grown business ideas. The entire group learned from the process and for me, winning the overall pitch competition was just a bonus.

“Greenfeed will allow the Irish government to reach its climate targets and decrease the penalties it would be subject to, removing the need for a mass cull of the national herd. Greenfeed’s solutions will allow farmers greater autonomy over their farms, including the size of their herd and their day-to-day activities, while also being incredibly beneficial for the environment”.

Local Enterprise Office (LEO) Waterford, ArcLabs Research and Innovation Centre and Boxworks joined forces to deliver this Start Up Competition for those with an innovative business idea or those already in business trading less than 18 months.

Participants, limited to those based in Waterford, were guided through the initial stages of developing their idea/business. Then successful applicants were selected for a Business Boot camp where they perfected their pitch before presenting to panel of judges.

The bootcamp was delivered by the Entrepreneurs Academy on April 26th & 27th. The winner received €1,000 in prize money and a desk space for 6 months as part of the LEO Desk Programme in collaboration with Boxworks. All participants were offered mentoring as part of our LEO Mentoring programme.

Jacqui Gaule was impressed with the quality of entries, “This marks the third year of our Pitch Perfect competition, and we were truly impressed by the quality of applications we received. The participants who took part in the programme collaborated exceptionally well and the calibre of the pitches was outstanding. It’s inspiring to witness the influx of fresh ideas and emerging businesses from Waterford.”

Local Enterprise Office Waterford is here to help you start a business, expand an existing business or reach new markets. It provides advice, information and supports in starting up or growing your business as part of a network of 31 Local Enterprise Offices across Ireland.

Contact your Local Enterprise Office Waterford for information about its programs and grants, on www.localenterprise.ie/Waterford or email info@leo.waterfordcouncil.ie for access to all its training support information.

ENDS

14th March 2024

By Waterford City & County Council

Expat Taxes wins Waterford National Enterprise Award

Expat Taxes Ltd., a Waterford company specialising in tax for expatriates has been named as Waterford’s Enterprise Award winner and will go on to represent Waterford at the 24th National Enterprise Awards which will take place in the Mansion House, Dublin, on Thursday May 23rd 2024.

The announcement was made as part of the Local Enterprise Office’s Local Enterprise Week at the Mayor’s Parlour on Friday March 8th.

Expat Taxes Ltd. is a boutique Irish tax practice that simplifies taxes for people moving to or from Ireland. As Chartered Tax Advisers and Chartered Accountants with over 15 years’ experience they are experts in expatriate tax. It offers tax advisory and tax compliance services. Its aim is to make taxes less stressful and to help its clients navigate the complex work of international tax.

Mayor of Waterford City and County Cllr. Joe Conway who presented the award was impressed with the winner, saying, “Expat Taxes represents the new outward looking Waterford. As our city and county continues to grow, progress and attract investment, companies such Expat provide a valuable and seamless service to those thinking of locating to Waterford and Ireland.

“I’d like to wish Stephanie and her team the best of luck as they go on to represent Waterford at the National Enterprise Finals.”

Gareth Evans, Head of Enterprise at Local Enterprise Office Waterford, congratulated the winners, “The National Enterprise Awards are very much a benchmark for excellence for small businesses across the country. Expat Taxes has demonstrated its calibre, innovation and resourcefulness and is a very deserving winner of the Waterford award. To be so successful after just a few shorts years in business is a real achievement and I’m sure they will go on to represent us well on the national stage.”

Stephanie Wickham, owner, was obviously delighted to win the award, “After winning the Waterford Digital Award last year we know how important they can be for our profile. We’re really looking forward to representing Waterford on the national stage in May and would like to thank the team at the LEO for all their help over the years.”

The other four finalists in the Waterford NEAs were:

Euro Tachograph Solutions Ltd
CMC Hygea Ltd
Reso Health Ltd
Uoto Ltd

7th March 2024

By Waterford City & County Council

Stiúideo Shortcourse wins Student Enterprise Awards

Maebh Dimond from Gaelcholáiste Phort Láirge wins Best Student Enterprise in Waterford and qualifies for the National Student Enterprise Finals.

Stiúideo Shortcourse, winner of the Senior award, created, produced and sold local greeting cards providing creative new designs in Irish with recycled materials and crisp card designs for special occasions. Stiúideo Shortcourse’s key focal point is promoting the Irish language through sustainable sources. Maebh, from Gaelcholáiste Phort Láirge took part in the Local Enterprise Office’s Student Enterprise Awards on Tuesday March 5^th at the Tower Hotel in Waterford City.

The Waterford Student Enterprise Programme started in September with 1,000 students from 14 schools in Waterford City and County. They created their businesses, developed, branded, promoted and sold. But most importantly they learned what it felt like to run their own business.

Finally, 100 students represented 11 schools in Waterford County and competed in the Waterford Student Enterprise Final on Tuesday March 5^th at the Tower Hotel in Waterford City. 36 businesses in total, shortlisted from a total of 350 who commenced the competition in September, presented their business plans and challenged for the top prize in the county section of the Student Enterprise Programme. Stiúideo Shortcourse will represent Waterford at the National Finals on May 9^th, taking on 34 other businesses, the best of the rest of the country.

Co-ordinated by the Local Enterprise Office Waterford, the final took place during Local Enterprise Week. The competition is the most successful programme of its kind in the country. 27,000 budding entrepreneurs from 380 secondary schools across the country have been running their own enterprises, with help from their teachers and Local Enterprise Offices.

National finalists from all over the country will set-up enterprise exhibition displays before taking part in a series of judging interviews. The judging panels take numerous factors into account, such as business reporting, innovation, market research, risk management and finances.

Praising the teachers and local schools involved in the programme, Gareth Evans, Head of Enterprise at the Local Enterprise Office Waterford, said: “The Student Enterprise Programme encourages and enables students to take on the world of business and develop an entrepreneurial mind-set. By fostering an enterprising culture in the classroom, the Local Enterprise Offices are working with teachers and schools to help nurture the next generation of entrepreneurs.”

For more information, please contact your Local Enterprise Office at 35 the Mall in Waterford City or Civic Offices in Dungarvan. Alternatively, you can email info@leo.waterfordcouncil.ie .

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15th February 2024

By Waterford City & County Council

Local Enterprise Office Waterford announces programme for Local Enterprise Week 2024

Waterford Local Enterprise Office has announced a programme of 14 events across 5 days during Local Enterprise Week 2024, taking place for Waterford City and County businesses from March 4^th to March 8^th.

This year’s Local Enterprise Week will feature a host of informative and engaging workshops, seminars, presentations and advice clinics aimed at local businesses, whether in pre-start, start-up or as an established business looking to grow.

You can learn from the experts in finance, marketing, social media, A.I. and photography. You can create digital opportunities for business, audit your website and source funding.

A key event in this packed programme is the ever popular ‘Social Media Mash-Up’, taking place on Thursday March 7^th from 10am to 12.30. Hosted by Teresanne O’Reilly it features digital marketing expert Muriel Foley of MGFD; Stephanie Wickham of Expat Taxes, winner of last year’s Digital Marketing Awards; Kevin Doolan, Director of Innovation at Walton Institute for Information and Communication Systems Science and Paul Dower, founder of Waterford in your pocket.

Tuesday March 5^th celebrates the future of enterprise in Waterford with the Student Enterprise Programme County final in the Tower Hotel. 42 businesses from 12 schools will compete on the day for a place at the National Finals in May.

Later in the week the Local Enterprise Office celebrates International Women’s Day with a Dungarvan Chamber event on Thursday evening and a Networking Breakfast event on the Friday morning in the Viking Hotel.

Head of Enterprise at Local Enterprise Office Waterford Gareth Evans is looking forward to his first Enterprise Week, “This year’s Local Enterprise Week programme has something for everyone, whatever phase your business is in, or whatever sector your business is in. The range of events and the calibre of speakers and facilitators have been specifically chosen by the team here in Waterford to address, with practical insight, what is required in achieving your business goals.

“The Local Enterprise Offices are tasked with assisting start-ups and small businesses to “Make it Happen”, each office strives to give these businesses the opportunities and resources to unleash their potential and make the path to growth as unhindered as possible. They also give those thinking of starting or expanding a business access to the full range of supports provided by State bodies and expert third parties, and that cross pollination is well reflected in the 2024 Local Enterprise Week programme.

“Waterford Local Enterprise Office is delighted to work in conjunction with various key business support organisations and state agencies, including Enterprise Ireland, Dungarvan Chamber and Waterford Chamber of Commerce to provide a programme that gives start-ups and small businesses opportunities to help them on the path to growth.”

To register for Local Enterprise Week events taking place in Waterford city and county from March 4^th to 8th, visit https://www.localenterprise.ie/!AK56SF. Most events are completely free of charge while some have a nominal booking fee. As with every year, many of the events are expected to book up quickly so early booking is strongly advised.

ENDS

4th January 2024

By Waterford City & County Council

Big plans for Waterford designers at Showcase 2024

Waterford’s craft and design industry will have strong representation at this year’s Showcase Creative Expo, which takes place from January 21st to 23rd 2024 in The RDS in Dublin.

Running for over forty years, Showcase has an impressive track record in attracting Ireland’s most talented makers and designers, along with buyers from over twenty countries. It offers the chance to explore the best of Ireland’s creativity from over 450 exhibitors including leading Irish designers and manufacturers and the very best emerging home-grown creative talent.

Four craft and design companies will be showcasing the very best of Waterford creativity, design and innovation, with the assistance of Local Enterprise Office Waterford.

Fiona Fahy, Feed Me Mother

Feed Me Mother is Ireland’s first sustainable breastfeeding and maternity clothes brand. It’s dedicated to empowering breastfeeding mothers to look and feel stylish and comfortable. The idea came to its founder Fiona after the birth of her first child in 2017, “Sustainable clothing that supports mothers in their postpartum journey is very important to me. I wanted a breastfeeding wardrobe that reflected my own style and personality, that was comfortable but gave me the confidence to feed freely, anywhere I wanted. And I knew I couldn’t be alone in feeling this way.”

Lynn Shead, Natures Alchemy

Natures Alchemy offers natural skincare products with a herbal medicine twist. All products are infused with organic herbs and flowers to add extra layers of healing and protection to your skincare routine. Founder Lynn is looking forward to the opportunity Showcase provides, “I’m very excited to attend Showcase in January for the first time with Waterford Local Enterprise office. Really looking forward to seeing all the other amazing Irish businesses on show, meeting small business friends in person there as well as finding new stockists that will bring Natures Alchemy to new parts of the country.”

Kayleigh Sutton, Phat Poly

Kayleigh is a self-taught Maximalist Jewellery Designer, creating handcrafted colourful and fun jewellery in her home studio, which is located in Tramore in Co. Waterford. Phat Poly, creates eye-catching and kitsch earrings that were lightweight and guaranteed not to cause skin irritations. Commenting on her business, “What I love about how I run my business is how often I get to play with ideas and create new designs. Unlike mainstream jewellery brands, you can find new Phat Poly designs most months! This keeps things fresh and exciting for me and my customers.”

Kim Whyte, Pawpear

Pawpear exists to connect people through the slow art of the handwritten message. Its exquisitely colourful stationery is designed and made in Ireland, and inspired by its richness of culture, nature and heritage. Founder Kim plans to make the most of Showcase, “As a new brand it’s hugely important to have face-to-face discussions with customers, build relationships and get feedback on our product, pricing and packaging. Showcase Ireland will hopefully help me meet lots of interesting retailers face-to-face rather than by email or over the phone.”

Working in partnership with the Design and Crafts Council of Ireland, the 31 Local Enterprise Offices (LEOs) around the country set up a dedicated area within Showcase every year – the Local Enterprise Showcase – enabling up to 100 designers, manufacturers and craftspeople to sell directly to international buyers.

Jamie Whitty, Business Advisor at LEO Waterford said that Showcase is an invaluable stepping stone to any craft-maker or designer getting an audience with potential clients. “With buyers from Ireland, Europe, the USA and Asia, Showcase is truly established as the must-see trade event. For anyone in the fashion, jewellery, home or giftware business the event offers exposure to new international markets.

“Not only is their place subsidised by the LEO, in advance of the expo the businesses will avail of training and briefing days in order to help them perfect their pitch and give them the tools, advice and insights to take full advantage of this fantastic opportunity.”

If your business is in pre-start, start-up or established business phase and would like to find out more about what business support services are available from LEO Waterford visit www.localenterprise.ie/Waterford/ or call to LEO Waterford offices at 35, The Mall, Waterford or the Civic Offices in Dungarvan.

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Photo: Karen Dempsey Photography

Fiona Fahy of Feed Me Mother, Lynn Shead of Natures Alchemy, Jamie Whitty LEO Business Advisor, Kim Whyte of Pawpear and Cayleigh Sutton of Phat Poly.