Funding, Access, and opportunities for scalable firms
A unique competition for ‘Celtic SMEs’ has been launched by the Interceltic Business Forum, an organisation focused on fostering economic cooperation across the Celtic nations.
The forum is part of the Festival Interceltique de Lorient (Interceltic Festival), a cultural event that has been running for over 50 years to celebrate the Celtic nations and their traditions.
The new Interceltic Scaling Awards are open to firms headquartered in Ireland, Scotland, Wales, Cornwall and Brittany with ambitious expansion plans, annual turnover or pre-revenue funding of more than €250,000 and which have been established for at least two years.
The winners will be announced at the Interceltic Festival, which takes place every August in Lorient, Brittany, and attracts 800,000 visitors.
Founded in 2016, the Interceltic Business Forum brings together businesses, entrepreneurs and policymakers to forge connections, exchange ideas and promote opportunities for growth and development.
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The competition was developed by Mark O’Connell, Executive Chairman of Belfast-based advisory firm OCO Global and Charles Kergaravat, founder of the Interceltic Business Forum.
Mr. O’Connell said:
“The cultural similarities across the Celtic nations – be that food, music, language or tradition – are well known, but there are also many natural linkages across the business community which the Interceltic Business Forum is starting to cultivate.
Historically, these regions have been on the periphery from centers of population and power, often set apart by a different language and culture. They also share a similar maritime geography on the Atlantic, which is important for emerging sectors such as renewable energy, marine technology and agri-food.
Post-Brexit it’s more important than ever to look at how businesses can build upon these shared characteristics. The Interceltic Scaling Awards are the starting point to develop new trade corridors and explore how we can turn our shared Celtic ancestry and traditions into a community that encourages new business.”
In addition to location and turnover, eligible firms must demonstrate a business plan outlining their scaling ambition and a clearly differentiated value proposition. Entrants are welcome from all sectors.
Mr Kergaravat added:
"The Interceltic Scaling Awards offer a golden opportunity for burgeoning companies across Ireland, Scotland, Wales, Cornwall and Brittany, providing a crucial springboard for international growth and recognition."
A minimum of twenty firms will be shortlisted from each region and five finalists will travel to the Festival Interceltique de Lorient to present a pitch. The winners will receive funding, mentoring support and three months’ assistance to explore business opportunities in another Celtic nation of their choice. Participants will also benefit from publicity and be profiled on the Interceltic Business Forum showcase website.
All entrants will receive an evaluation using OCO Global’s Scaling Readiness Diagnostic matrix that measures attributes such as growth, leadership and funding.
Firms can be nominated by their local economic development agency or can enter directlyatwww.intercelticforum.com/awards
Source: Written from press release
