Ministers Launch North/South Innovation Awards 



Ireland's innovators are putting their thinking caps as €40,000 goes on offer for winners of the North-South Innovation award.

NI Minister Michelle Gildernew (pictured) and her southern counterparts have launched the 2008 Innovation Awards for Rural Business at a meeting in Cavan.



The aim of the awards is to motivate individuals to take an innovative approach to new business and help them turn their business idea into a reality. The overall prize fund for the competition is valued at €40,000.



Speaking at the launch Minister Gildernew said: "This competition is all about encouraging and providing practical support for innovation in the countryside. Earlier this year I had the opportunity to meet last year’s finalists and I was enormously impressed by the range and ingenuity of the business opportunities represented. 



"I would encourage anyone who is exploring a new business idea or has recently started trading to consider entering this competition.

"Each entrant will have the chance to discuss their idea with an experienced judging panel and get valuable feedback on their business plan. Finalists will benefit financially but also from the mentoring, promotion and networking opportunities that the competition offers."



Previous finalists from include Millwood Crafts, Benburb; Glastry Farm Ice Cream, Kircubbin; Mount Mills Flax Oil, Newry; Agri Images, Moy; and Cloughbane Farm Shop, Pomeroy which won the Value Added Food category in last year's competition.

Blessingbourne Courtyard Apartments from Fivemiletown also took a Highly Commended.
 accolade.

The Minister concluded: "Achieving this award has really helped many previous winners and finalists to give their business a national profile and attract new customers.

"I am delighted that my Department is once again involved in sponsoring this all Ireland competition and look forward to a good response from rural entrepreneurs."


(DW)