The Acumen Programme is a cross-border business development programme designed to stimulate cross-border sales and develop other forms of commercial co-operation amongst SME's throughout the island of Ireland. Financial support may be provided by way of salary and/or consultancy support.
Funding for the programme is comprised of contributions from the International Fund for Ireland, development agencies and participant companies.
What costs are eligible?
Enterprise Ireland support is provided towards the recruitment of a new key manager with skills that are critical for the development of cross-border commercial co-operation).
Maximum support limits
Region
|
Small Company |
Medium Company |
Large Company |
| Border, Midlands & West |
50% |
40% |
30% |
| South East, South West & Mid West |
50% |
40% |
30% |
| Dublin/Mid East |
50% |
40% |
30% |
The support listed above is based on a maximum salary of €34,000 per annum provided over a one year period.
Please note that support under this programme will form part of the €65,000 combined maximum level of support available for all funding awarded under Category 1 (Exploring New Opportunities) over a rolling two year period.
Category 1 includes funding for consultancy, recruitment of a key manager, feasibility studies, market research, mentor network service, trade fair participation and training support.
Am I eligible?
You are eligible to apply for this funding if you are one of the following:
How do I apply?
Project ideas must be discussed with your Enterprise Ireland Development Adviser , or with InterTrade Ireland Acumen prior to submitting the completed application form. If you are not already a client of Enteprise Ireland, please contact your Enterprise Ireland Regional Office.
Grant Application Forms must be completed and returned prior to commencement of the project to:
 |
Client Services Unit |
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?
You can contact:
 |
Rosemary Sexton, +353 42 9354420 |
Details are also available from the Acumen Programme website.