Money, Marketing and Mentoring - JFC Awards

DARD
3rd October 2007

If you have a good business idea but need some cash, a bit of practical business advice and access to potential customers throughout Ireland then the JFC Innovation Awards for Rural Business is for you.

The Awards were launched by DARD Minister Michelle Gildernew MP MLA and DAF Minister Mary Coughlan TD on the DARD stand at the Ploughing Championships at Tullamore. This year’s competition will be managed by DARD and Teagasc and is open to entries from across the island of Ireland.

The Minister, Michelle Gildernew, emphasised the importance of establishing an alternative source of income in the current climate where many farmers are largely dependant on payments scheduled to diminish in value over the coming years. She described how, with DARD’s help, rural entrepreneurs across Northern Ireland have not only succeeded in keeping the family farm business going but have surpassed their expectations in fields as diverse as furniture manufacture; tourist accommodation; and holistic therapies. “The aim of the Competition” she explained “is to help diversifiers move from an idea through to a sustainable businesses”. “The judges are looking for innovative businesses that have not yet started or are in the early stages of trading”

There are three categories for the JFC Innovation Awards for Rural Business:

The prize fund for this year’s Awards is valued at £25,200.The overall award winner will receive a prize fund valued at £10,500.This includes a cash prize of £3,500, mentoring and business support worth £3,500 and advertising space in the Irish Farmers Journal worth £3,500. Category winners will receive a prize fund valued at £2,100 and category finalists will receive a prize fund valued at £1,050.

The final date for receipt of completed entries is 5pm Friday, 30 November 2007.

Entry packs are available from your local DARD Rural Enterprise Adviser who can be contacted by phoning 028 9052 4591/4406 or on the DARD website.