The Irish Exporters Association’s National Export Hub, in partnership with InterTrade Ireland has launched a new educational programme aimed at supporting SME’s to improve their exporting capabilities.

The Export Knowledge Programme aims to help participants to improve their capability to export into existing and new markets in Ireland and internationally.

The first batch of applicants were assessed to ensure that their business has the structure and resources to support growth and entry into new export markets. Twenty firms have been selected for a seven-month workshop programme covering every aspect of exports.

Some companies selected to participate in the first phase of the programme proceed to the second phase. Unsuccessful applicants are told how to improve their ability to enter export markets in the future.

The National Export Hub is a public-private partnership, with key partners AIB, Euler Hermes, DHL, ABP Food Group, PwC, Bord Bia, Enterprise Ireland and the Department of Trade. In 2015, 2,300 people attended HUB breakfast seminars.

In Association with

Patrick Joy, founder of Suretank Group and EY Entrepreneur of the Year in 2013, chairs the NEH steering committee. The NEH has three objectives per year:
· To assist 20 companies to grow by increasing their exports whether by exporting for the first time, increasing exports to existing markets or by opening a new export market.
· To assist 80 companies through introductions and referrals to the sponsors, commercial service providers, government and government agencies, and through signposting the various schemes and supports available.
· To increase the infrastructure of support available to all potential Irish exporters.