Digital training programme aims to accelerate digital sales for 20,000 Irish SMEs.
Go and Grow Online has been accessed by over 2,500 small business owners since it launched two months ago on 14 January 2022.
The digital training programme is targeting over 20,000 small businesses through virtual training and supports to accelerate digital, sales, CRM and financial skills.
“Small and medium businesses are the lifeblood of our economy”
Hundreds have attended the free virtual events hosted by Go and Grow Online digital trainers who have delivered talks and workshops on topics like SEO, selling online and platform optimisation.
Others have accessed free resources developed specially for small businesses including event recordings.
“A core principle of Go and Grow Online is that it’s available 24/7 because we know that if you’re an entrepreneur working hard to get your business off the ground, attending training during business hours may not be realistic for you,” said Nicola Woods, Go and Grow Online programme lead.
“That’s why we offer a blend of online and in person supports so that we reflect the agility and flexibility that’s necessary for entrepreneurs. And it seems to be working, with over 2,000 start ups accessing supports in the first two months.”
Step-by-step supports
At the start of April, e-learning modules will go live giving small businesses step by step supports on topics such as expanding online sales, digital sales, cybersecurity and finance management.
To find out more about the programme and to sign up for free business events, visit https://www.enterprisenation.com/go-and-grow-online/.
Soon to launch are face to face sessions and events hosted at locations all around the country where entrepreneurs will be able to access digital training as well as the chance to network and share their experiences.
Go and Grow Online is supported by Vodafone, Microsoft, and Klarna and is delivered by Enterprise Nation, the small business network.
“Small and medium businesses are the lifeblood of our economy, and Microsoft is really passionate about supporting SMEs achieve their digital and online ambitions to create efficiencies, grow and expand and remain competitive,” said Peter Lougheed, SME lead at Microsoft Ireland.
“The ‘Go and Grow Online’ programme reflects our commitment to nurturing SMEs through networking, digital upskilling, and free online resources. As the e-commerce sphere continues to accelerate, we’re delighted to continue supporting the growth and online ambitions of Irish SMEs.”
Businesses who take part in Go and Grow Online have access to the Enterprise Nation platform and the supports provided including workshops, eLearning, and access to digital advisers.
The programme has been developed in response to demand from small business owners – many of whom founded their companies in response to the pandemic, with statistics showing a 42% increase in new company registrations in the first half of 2021 alone – who are looking for training on how to ensure their businesses succeed online.
“Supporting SMEs and business communities across the country on their digital journey is an important priority for everyone at Vodafone Business,” said Lisa Corcoran, head of SMB Business at Vodafone.
“It is fantastic to see thousands of small business owners avail of Go and Grow Online, which will only help more and more Irish businesses to unlock new areas of growth, upskill employees and reimagine future possibilities for success.”
