InterTradeIreland has announced that in the first half of 2021 it assisted over two and a half thousand companies. Demand for the business body’s supports was driven by small firms seeking help to innovate and grow as they emerged from the pandemic and the end of the Brexit transition period.
The latest figures were revealed as the Tánaiste and Ireland’s Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment Leo Varadkar TD, visited InterTradeIreland’s offices in Newry, Co. Down on Thursday.
Speaking about the cross-border body, the Tánaiste said, “It has been a great opportunity to meet the team in person and see for myself the fantastic work InterTradeIreland is doing to help firms access the cross-border market, create jobs and grow.”
“Brexit has presented challenges but there are opportunities too. InterTradeIreland can help small and medium sized firms collaborate with other businesses, higher level institutions and other networks across the border, building mutually beneficial relationships and partnerships in areas such as decarbonisation and digitalisation. The future is bright.”
Ken Nelson MBE, InterTradeIreland’s Chairman said, “We were delighted to welcome the Tánaiste to InterTradeIreland’s offices in Newry. InterTradeIreland is focused on helping businesses in both jurisdictions to take full advantage of the opportunities that trading and collaborating across the island presents.”
Margaret Hearty, Designated Officer for InterTradeIreland commented, “In the first half of 2021, firms that we support have reported €95 M (£81 M) in business development value. We are a responsive organisation working closely with the businesses that we assist. We have pivoted many of our supports to make them more accessible online. We have also added new programmes, helping SMEs develop online sales and eCommerce solutions. It’s very encouraging to see such demand for our services.”
During the visit, the Tánaiste met representatives from Dublin IT firm eXpd8, Co. Laois manufacturing company Midland Steel, Co. Dublin product development firm Stayhold and from Newry based STATSports. All have benefitted from InterTradeIreland’s support.
Margaret Hearty concluded, “STATSports, eXpd8, Stayhold and Midland Steel are just four examples of how engaging in cross-border trade and collaboration can open doors for your business to new growth opportunities and new customers.”
“We look forward to helping more SMEs through this recovery phase as economic momentum picks up.”
