Enterprise Programme to create Irish Food Jobs

In Ireland an ongoing development programme hopes to boost the country's economy and encourage growth in the food industry. The 2011 Enterprise Ireland SuperValu Supplier Development Programme will offer 10 food start up companies one-on-one mentoring support and specialised training.

The programme is now in its fifth year and has given support to a growing number of small businesses and suppliers of innovative and organic food products. The programme has already delivered €16 million of direct sales from participating companies allowing them to reach the quality and service standard required to reach national supermarkets.

Some of the companies that have benefitted from the programme are Killowen Yogurt, Irish Organic Milk Producers, Kearney's Gluten Free Breaded Fish, Kilbeg Dairy and Walsh Gourmet Foods.

Jobs Minister Richard Bruton TD hopes that this successful model can be applied to other sectors of the country's economy.

"In the coming months I will be exploring other areas of the economy where the great potential of business mentoring can be used to support Irish start-ups and ensure that we support in any way we can the businesses and jobs of the future."