It would be an interesting exercise to investigate what percentage of businesses were capable of conducting online commerce in February as compared to say May of 2020.
Not an exercise of huge value, but an interesting one nonetheless and hey we’ve all got more time on our hands now right?
In any event that number looks set to increase further with the opening of the window for applications for a souped up online trading voucher by the Irish government.
Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation, Heather Humphreys TD has announced that applications are now open for the new Enterprise Ireland €2 million Covid-19 Online Retail Scheme to support retail companies to enhance their digital capability.
The new fund, will be open to indigenous retailers with a physical store and employing 10 or more people to develop a more competitive online offer in response to the crisis.
Successful applicants will receive financial support of up to 80 percent of eligible project costs, with funding ranging from €10,000 to €40,000 under the competitive call.
The Scheme, aims to address the urgent need for retail companies to achieve a step change in online capability to achieve business continuity, and to lay foundations for future recovery and growth.
The €2 million fund operated and administered by Enterprise Ireland is targeted at indigenous retailers with a pre-existing online presence to accelerate their online offerings to respond to both domestic and international consumer demand. The grant can be used to fund fees for service providers, develop and implement a digital strategy supported by in-house training and enhance the retailer’s website.
A €2,500 Trading Online Voucher schemeis already in place for companies with less than 10 employees, provided through the Local Enterprise Offices.
The online application platform will remain open until 3.00pm, Wednesday, 27 May 2020.
You can apply here at www.enterprise-ireland.com/retail.
Good luck!
