Six local businesses from Carlow County have recently returned from a productive export development programme in Belgium, organised by Carlow County Council’s Local Enterprise Office. The programme aimed to equip the small Carlow-based companies with the essential tools and knowledge to expand their operations into international markets.
The participating businesses took part in a training and mentoring programme over a 6-month period which supported them to prepare for entering into an export market. The programme culminated in a trade visit to Brussels in early October where the businesses had the opportunity to connect with potential clients and partners in Belgium and the Netherlands, explore new market opportunities, and gain significant insights into the Benelux business landscape. The programme offered each business a series of valuable sales meetings with prospective customers and most businesses returned to Ireland having secured impressive new contracts or opportunities to tender for works.
Cllr. Fergal Browne, Cathaoirleach of Carlow County Council said "I'm delighted to hear about the success of the Carlow businesses who recently participated in the export visit to Belgium. Expanding into international markets is a strategic move for local companies, and these initiatives play a vital role in diversifying our economy and creating new opportunities for growth. Carlow County Council remains committed to supporting our businesses in their export endeavours and providing the necessary resources through our Local Enterprise Office to help them succeed on the global stage."
“We are thrilled to see these Carlow businesses successfully complete the export development programme in Belgium and sign contracts to sell their products and services in Belgium and the Netherlands.” added Séamus Doran, Assistant Head of Economic Development & Enterprise who led the trade visit. “Exporting can be a game-changer for local companies, and we are committed to providing Carow businesses with the support and resources they need to succeed in global markets. Local Enterprise Office Carlow continues to offer a range of export development services to local businesses, including market research, trade missions, and export mentoring. We are here to support any Carlow business who has an international ambition.”