STIMULATING AND SUPPORTING NEW BUSINESS IN IRELAND

Community Enterprise Innovation

By Joan Fahey, March 22, 2010

Despite the tough economic times, the enthusiasm and spirit of enterprise amongst community groups in Co. Roscommon continues to be very strong, going by the level of interest in a community enterprise training programme piloted by Roscommon Integrated Development Company. Delivered by WESTBIC, the eight week programme was attended by participants from ten community groups across the county, all with community enterprise projects that they are developing in their areas, including community centres, training facilities, youth projects, activities for older people, community tourism, community festivals and other community enterprises aimed at specific target groups.

The course brought participants through the process of establishing and developing innovative community projects and also provided information and support on applying for LEADER funding for eligible projects. This has resulted in the upskilling of community group representatives in project development, project management and innovation and the generation of a number of project applications which will go will go forward for funding through the LEADER programme, administered by Roscommon Integrated Development Company.

Pictured at the completion of The Community Enterprise Development Programme funded by RIDC:
Back L-R: Ruth Sullivan (Ballinlough Youth Cafe), Mary Casey (Co. Roscommon Disability Support Group, Derrane) Benny O'Connell (Enterprise Castlerea Ltd), Michael Simpson (Vita House), Dion Hegarty (Triest Press), Liam Beirne (St. Johns Parish Heritage Group), Mary Lynch (Ballinlough Granlahan CBC), Joe Nally (Roscommon Drama Festival), Patricia O'Beirne (Strokestown Community & Sports Centre), James Donlon (WESTBIC).

Front L-R: Miriam Brennan (Vita House), Chris Hicks (Co. Roscommon Disability Support Group, Derrane), Laurence Fallon and Noel Connolly from Roscommon Integrated Development Company, Ann Kelly (Strokestown Community & Sports Centre),