The Export Orientation Programme (EOP) which was established in 1983, is a graduate training programme, with advantages for both graduates and companies.

For participating companies, the programme:

• is an excellent way to establish in a foreign market
• can allow a company to strengthen its Irish industry profile and international marketing capacity
• can assist with the development of business abroad at a low cost
• can act as a recruitment option

The programme is of 12 months duration, with the graduate spending a minimum of six months outside of Ireland.

Maximum support limits

The Export Orientation Programme is an Enterprise Ireland Category 1 support. Category 1 includes funding for consultancy, recruitment of a key manager,  feasibility studies, market research, mentor network service, trade fair participation and training support.

A grant limit within a rolling two-year period for all proposals approved under this category of funding applies.  For further information, please discuss with your Development Adviser.

The grant maximum is based on a percentage level of your expenditure and may be reduced if you have raised funds under the BES (Business Expansion Scheme) or SCS (Seed Capital Scheme).

What costs are eligible?

The grant of €10,000/ (€13,000) is divided as follows:

• €4,550 (€6,050) towards the training time of the graduate for a period of one year, based on 50% of non-productive time, on a minimum bursary of €18,200 (€24,200).
• €5,450 (€6,950) towards the language training/project management in-company training and certification costs, as previously agreed with the Marketing Institute.

Am I eligible?

Clients are eligible to apply for this funding if they are one of the following:

• An Irish Manufacturing or internationally traded services company, employing 10- 249 people.
• A new High Potential Start Up company

How do I apply?

Project ideas should be discussed with your Enterprise Ireland Development Adviser prior to submitting a completed Application Form.  If you are not already a client of Enterprise Ireland, please contact your nearest Enterprise Ireland Regional Office.

Grant Application Forms must be completed and returned prior to commencement of the project to:

Brid Foley, Enterprise Ireland Tel +353 1 206 6312

Any expenditure incurred prior to receipt of the application by the Client Service Unit will not be eligible for grant aid. 

Where can I get more information?

For further information on the programme visit IBEC 

You can also contact:

Brid Foley, Enterprise Ireland Tel +353 1 206 6312

or

Claire Minogue, Enterprise Ireland