Two Cavan enterprises have been awarded over €80,000 in funding under the Government's Social Enterprise Project initiative.
The Cottage Market received €79,104 to fund a refrigerated van for three new customer collection points and home delivery service, and a generator to service new Dine Yard locations in rural areas in Cavan.
Virginia Show Centre, meanwhile, is the lucky recipient of €4,816 for a feasibility study to identify a viable business model that will sustain the Centre financially into the future. Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys, announced almost €1.5m in funding for 34 Social Enterprise projects across the country.
It will enable micro businesses to carry out capital projects, including the purchase of vehicles; and refurbishment and improvement works at their premises. She added that social enterprises have done "tremendous work" in serving their communities; addressing disadvantage; and the creation of meaningful job opportunities.
"I am delighted to announce an investment of almost 1.5 million euro to support 34 Social Enterprises the length and breadth of the country. The Scaling-Up Fund will support these social enterprises to grow and develop their services, carry out capital works, purchase vehicles, and carry out other infrastructure projects.
"Social enterprises are so often on the front line for communities throughout the country; they provide goods and services; support vulnerable citizens; and create jobs. I want to thank all social enterprises for their tremendous work in serving their communities, addressing disadvantage and creating meaningful job opportunities over the past couple of years, in challenging circumstances," the Minister said.
