Programme Duration

April – September 2025

SME Focus

Creative and Artisan Food Industries in Offaly

Delivery Format

Blended
(In-person and Online Sessions)

Special Outcome

Create a short video with an award-winning production company to be an “Offaly Green Champion”

About the Programme

 

Offaly Local Development Company is thrilled to introduce this dynamic and innovative programme for SMEs in Offaly. We recognise the critical significance of Green Business practices for all enterprises, especially the unique challenges faced by small businesses. This programme is specifically crafted to provide practical and meaningful support to small enterprises, prioritising the individual needs of each participant.

A new and innovative green business training and mentoring programme, catering specifically to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) within the Creative and Artisan Food industries. Designed to provide crucial support to Offaly-based businesses dedicated to reducing their environmental footprint and advancing sustainable practices, the programme includes technical guidance on implementing sustainability initiatives, financial advice, product development support, and training in storytelling and PR strategies.

Why Is Green Business Important?

Green Business has many benefits for business, and this programme is designed to help creatives begin their journey towards a sustainable future. Going Green can cut costs, improve efficiency and create healthier workplaces. It also plays a valuable role in improving brand reputation and customer loyalty. As demand for ‘green’ goods and services is increasing, businesses have an opportunity to become part of this and tell their unique sustainable stories.

Programme Content

This module is designed to help you gain a deeper understanding of sustainable business and product development that is relevant to your business. The group sessions are designed and facilitated to suit your needs. Additionally, individual 1:1 mentoring sessions are customised to provide direct support for each participant based on their unique needs.

The module is delivered in-person and online.

Format & Schedule

  • Delivery: Group Sessions supported by 1:1 mentoring sessions.
  • Group Dates: 01/04/2025, 10/06/2025, 17/06/2025 (These are three scheduled sessions.)
  • Time: 9:30am – 12:30pm (Group sessions are three hours long.)
  • 1:1 Sessions: Scheduled directly between the tutor and the participant. This offers personalized support.

This module focuses on how to communicate the story of your business, with a specific focus on sustainability. The session will include best practice examples of small-scale businesses that tell their sustainability story in an interesting way.

The key outcome is to develop a practical strategy for your sustainability story, which you will then progress during your 1:1 mentoring sessions.

The module is delivered in-person and online.

Format & Schedule

  • Delivery: 1 Group Session supported by 1:1 mentoring sessions.
  • Group Date: 29/04/2025
  • Time: 9:30am – 5:00pm (This is a full-day session.)
  • 1:1 Sessions: Will be scheduled directly between the tutor and the participant for customised support.

This module focuses on helping you gain a stronger understanding of the power of digital marketing for your business and how you can use it to share your Green Business Story and credentials.

The topics delivered in this module will be chosen by the participants and could include platforms and tools such as Facebook, Instagram, Canva, AI for business, and more.

The entire module is delivered online.

Format & Schedule

  • Delivery: 3 Group Sessions.
  • Group Dates & Times:
    • 01/05/2025: 1:30pm – 4:30pm
    • 21/05/2025: 9:30am – 12:30pm
    • 12/06/2025: 9:30am – 12:30pm

This module consists of four informative sessions to assist your business with its financial management, with a clear focus on the importance and benefits of going green.

Topics Covered:

  • Understanding Accounts
  • Costing & Pricing Part 1
  • Costing and Pricing Part 2
  • Tax and Basic Bookkeeping

The module is **delivered online**.

Format & Schedule

  • Delivery: 4 Group Sessions supported by 1:1 mentoring sessions.
  • Group Dates & Time: All sessions are from 10:00am – 1:00pm on:
    • 07/04/2025
    • 16/04/2025
    • 30/04/2025
    • 14/05/2025
  • 1:1 Sessions: Will be scheduled directly between the tutor and the participant for customised support.

This is an exploration programme focusing on sustainability, encompassing its impacts, policies, and procedures. Participants will uncover the advantages of green business practices and the benefits of collaborative networking efforts.

The module is delivered online & In-person.

Format & Schedule

  • Delivery: 4 Group Sessions supported by 1:1 mentoring sessions.
  • Group Dates:
    • 22/07/2025
    • 24/07/2025
    • 30/07/2025
    • 13/08/2025
  • 1:1 Sessions: Will be scheduled directly between the tutor and the participant for customised support.

Special Outcome: Digital Recording for Your Business

This is not a traditional module; it is the recognition and reward for completing the program.

You will have the opportunity to collaborate with an award-winning film and television production company to create a short video celebrating Offaly’s “Green Champions”.

What to Expect:

This initiative is designed as a recognition programme for graduates of the Create Green Offaly initiative, providing a high-value marketing asset:

  • The end result will be a short video that encapsulates the knowledge gained from the training programme.
  • It aids participants in sharing their green business narrative.
  • It integrates them into a network of esteemed Green Business graduates.

Who is this programme suitable for?

This programme is specifically for SME’s in the Creative and Artisan Food Industries in Offaly who are looking to enhance their operations:

  • SME’s who have already completed previous similar programmes.
  • Those who are actively interested in enhancing their eco-friendly business practices.
  • Businesses equipped to swiftly transition their operations to adhere to Circular Economy principles.

Important Notes:

  • Training is specifically for (SMEs) within the Creative and Artisan Food industries in Offaly.
  • Participants must be available to attend the both In person and Online Training sessions planned to take place from April – June 2025.
  • Spaces are limited and subject to eligibility criteria.

Ready to Create a Green Offaly?

We arew currently developing a new programme, please register your interest if you are interested in learning more about Green Business

To register your interest please complete our Form.

This programme was developed by Offaly Local Development Company, and funded through the LEADER Rural Development Programme.

Contact

Ready to take the next step? Our team is available to provide guidance and support tailored to your needs. Contact your local coordinator directly via the details below.

Catriona Duggan

RDP Development Worker

Passionate – Dedicated – Professional

Learn more about what we do.