News

FREE webinar introducing 30 funding mechanisms to industry

On Wednesday 22nd January from 12noon to 1pm Walton Institute in South East Technological University (SETU) will be hosting a valuable webinar for industry outlining the many funding opportunities available for businesses in Ireland. Many organisations are not aware of the different funding opportunities on offer to support innovative ideas. The team at Walton Institute are streamlining this information by presenting 30 funding mechanisms to help companies in their digital transformation journey. Kevin

10th Anniversary of the Local Enterprise Office, Waterford

The Local Enterprise Office has assisted in the creation of over 1,200 jobs in the 10 years of its existence and provided over €6.5 million in grant aid to Waterford SMEs.  The Local Enterprise Office in Waterford marked its 10th anniversary with a special feature on WLR’s Deise Today.  The LEO marked the occasion with an hour of interviews on WLR fm, hosted by Damien Tiernan. As well as LEO staff members the panel included Mark Bergin of Coffeehouse Lane, Margaret Fleming of Dessert First, Liam Murray

Network Magazine - Issue 29

Click here to view/download PDF.IN THIS ISSUE:City of Innovation: Chamber President Kevin Doolin's big visionPaving the way for regional growth and innovationEuropean City of Christmas: Your complete guide to wonderful WintervalEnergia & Vårgrønn offshore wind developmentWaterford City & County Council Autumn ReviewThe halo effect of supporting localAIB offers tailored guidance and support to family-owned enterprisesCivic Trust Blue Plaque unveiled at Tramore Coastguard StationChristmas Delights by Jenny

Transformational change focus at Toys4Engineers

Waterford Chamber joined forces with Engineering the South East and South East Technological University (SETU) to deliver the national Toys4Engineers Conference and Expo at the SETU Arena in Waterford. Featuring ambitious start-ups and leading multinationals, the national event was geared towards those interested in engineering, technology, pharmaceuticals, biomedical science, agri-food, manufacturing, construction, and renewable energy industries.  Talks for transformation Throughout the day, the

Shining a spotlight on tourism in rural Waterford

On Thursday November 7th the fourth Waterford Rural Tourism Network event took place in The Majestic Hotel in Tramore, Co. Waterford.   Funded and supported by Waterford City and County Council and Fáilte Ireland, the Waterford Rural Tourism Network development programme is delivered by Runda Hospitality and Tourism Solutions.   The Waterford Rural Tourism Network is made up of five cluster areas (Copper Coast, Blackwater Valley, Comeraghs, Gaeltacht na nDéise, and Waterford Estuary) with each area

Taking the Pulse of the region's tech sector

RIKON Research Centre, in partnership with regional economic agencies, Local Authorities, and SETU, was commissioned to document key data relating to the Southeast tech firms’ operations in Waterford and the Southeast.   The premise of the Tech Pulse survey was to serve as a deep-dive document into the sector and will be used to inform policymakers, investors and start-ups about the region’s tech landscape, within the context of the wider economic landscape.   With contributions from 71 tech companies

Response to Dail comments on Waterford Airport runway extension business case

In response to comments by Junior Transport Minister James Lawless that likened the Waterford Airport business case to buying a 'pig in a poke', Waterford Chamber CEO Gerald Hurley has emailed the Minister:RE: Response to Dáil Comments on Waterford Airport Runway Extension Business Case Dear Minister Lawless, I am writing in response to your comments yesterday in the Dáil regarding the funding and business case for Waterford Airport’s runway extension. While I appreciate your willingness to consider

South East Chambers urge Government to approve Waterford Airport Development

South East Chambers urge Government to approve Waterford Airport Development, citing Regional Economic Growth and Job Creation potential The South East Chambers of Commerce – representing Waterford Chamber, Wexford Chamber, Dungarvan & West Waterford Chamber, Kilkenny Chamber and Carlow Chamber – have issued a united call to An Taoiseach, An Tánaiste, and Minister O’Gorman for immediate government action on the Waterford Airport expansion project. In a letter addressed to these government leaders, the

Chamber Diaspora Dinner sells Waterford to Dublin

‘Waterford is open for business and looking for investors’ was the resounding message delivered loud and clear at Waterford Chamber’s Dublin Diaspora Dinner, sponsored by EY, Waterford Local Enterprise Office and Waterford Chamber Skillnet, at The Dunmore, Rathmines, with over 90 business influencers with connections to Waterford in attendance.  Opening proceedings, Niall Harrington, Waterford Chamber President showed his passion for his home city, the opportunities for development and the need for

Strengthening collaborative partnerships to develop Waterford Rural Tourism

At the most recent Waterford Rural Tourism Network (WRTN) cluster meetings Waterford City and County Council and Fáilte Ireland, together with Runda Hospitality & Tourism Solutions, visited and heard from businesses across the County about the challenges and opportunities that the 2024 summer season presented.   The Waterford Rural Tourism Network is made up of five cluster areas (Copper Coast, Blackwater Valley, Comeraghs, Gaeltacht, and Waterford Estuary) and each of the five meetings took place at a

Waterford City and County Council Corporate Plan Online Public Consultation now open

Members of the public are invited to submit their observations on Waterford City and County Council's Corporate Plan 2024-2029.   The Corporate Plan serves as the local authority’s strategic framework for action over the duration of the current council from 2024 to 2029.  It is a central part of the business of the local authority and sets out the vision and mission statement for Waterford City and County Council which are based on the core values of the organisation.   The Corporate Plan is the

Waterford Chamber welcomes Veterinary School confirmation

Waterford Chamber has welcomed An Taoiseach Simon Harris's announcement that a new Veterinary School is to be formed at South East Technological University (SETU). According to Gerald Hurley, CEO of Waterford Chamber, "Establishing a pipeline of highly skilled veterinary practitioners for the South East region is essential, given the the dominance of the Agri Food Industry in the South East. We are extremely proud to have been part of the extensive lobbying of Government for this, along with SETU

SETU chosen to deliver new veterinary medicine programme

South East Technological University (SETU) is proud to be selected to deliver a new veterinary medicine programme, marking a significant milestone for both the University and the future of veterinary education in the region. In 2022, the Higher Education Authority (HEA) initiated plans to expand capacity in health-related programmes, including veterinary medicine. Following a thorough independent assessment, SETU’s proposal for veterinary medicine was successfully endorsed.  Minister for Further and

North Quays Public Infrastructure Project Update

Over the summer months, further significant progress has been made on the North Quays Public Infrastructure Project.   The public infrastructure works are funded with a public investment of €207m, including €100.6m of Urban Regeneration and Development Fund (URDF) funding and following cabinet approval, a further €70m from the Department of Transport through the National Transport Authority (NTA).   The works include a public transport hub including the relocation of Waterford train station to the North

Network Magazine - Issue 28

IN THIS ISSUE:Changing of the Guard: Sean McKeown is the new Council bossPowering the PortJim Power: Economic background to Budget 2025Multi-billion offshore investments could boost Waterford’s economy and jobs marketEY Waterford: Growth, Diversification and Sustainability in the South EastAutism Friendly City: A few hours can lead to a lifetime of changeWorking to unite our communityNolke Opticians celebrate 20 years in businessManaging CashflowPaul Nolan honoured as first Patron of Waterford ChamberHome

Waterford City and County Council introduces 9% rates discount for A Cleaner, Greener Waterford

As part of Waterford City and County Council’s roadmap to delivering a carbon neutral Waterford by 2040, the Local Authority is introducing its Business Pledge for A Cleaner, Greener Waterford on Monday, September 2nd.   The scheme, formerly known as the Commercial Energy Discount Scheme, was launched in 2022 and has supported thousands of businesses across the city and county in transitioning to carbon neutrality.   Businesses are invited to take the Business Pledge to strive towards a cleaner, greener

Offshore wind energy a 'transformative opportunity' for Waterford and the South-East

Multi-billion offshore investments could boost Waterford's economy and jobs market   “The advent of offshore wind energy in Ireland provides a potentially transformative opportunity which must be harnessed for Waterford and the entire south-east region”, the President of Waterford Chamber of Commerce, Niall Harrington told delegates at a special conference held by the Chamber in the Houses of the Oireachtas in Dublin.   "Waterford’s proximity to Ireland’s designated maritime areas for wind energy

Europe’s quantum communication community gathers in Dublin for IrelandQCI event

Minister Ossian Smyth joins representatives from the European Commission, European Space Agency, six national universities and industry partners of IrelandQCI (Quantum Communication Infrastructure) for extensive 3-day quantum communication technology conference in Dublin.    Quantum technology specialists from across Europe are gathering at the Camden Court Hotel in Dublin city this week for a 3-day conference organised by the IrelandQCI Project Leads at Walton Institute in South East Technological

Federation of Rajasthan Trade and Industry (FORTI) Business Trade delegation visit to Waterford

Waterford Chamber of Commerce was delighted to support Tipperary County Council and the Ireland India Business Association (IIBA) during the visit to Waterford by the Federation of Rajasthan Trade and Industry (FORTI) Business Trade delegation on June 25th.   The visiting delegates were warmly welcomed to Waterford by Councillor Jason Murphy, Mayor of the City and County, and Waterford Chamber President Niall Harrington in the Garden Room of City Hall. They received several presentations highlighting the

German companies seeking business partners

Network Magazine - Issue 27

IN THIS ISSUE:IDA backing the South EastExpediating off-shore windFighting for regional balanceGarter Lane celebrates 40 yearsSustainability and SanofiNavigating the impact of CGT Retirement Relief reforms for Family Business SuccessionAIB life top five tips for financial planningGerman companies seeking business partnersChamber driving the Waterford agendaEnergia and Vårgrønn advance survey workWaterford City & County Council Spring ReviewWelcome to our new membersBite-Size NewsPlus much more!

Waterford business community turn out for Chamber Business After Hours at Port of Waterford

The Waterford business community was out in force on Thursday, June 20th to attend the Chamber business after-hours event at the Port of Waterford in Belview. Guests were welcomed by the Chairman of the Port John Treacey and treated to a tour of the activity port side and enjoyed some insights into the latest success at the Port and upcoming business developments from the Port CEO David Sinnott. Speaking at the event David said, “The history of Waterford City and the history of the Port are closely

IDA boss backs Waterford at Chamber Summer Gala

The Waterford business community gathered in glorious sunshine at the Haven Hotel for Waterford Chamber’s President’s Summer Gala, sponsored by AIB and featuring guest speaker Michael Lohan, CEO of IDA Ireland.  Following a lovely drinks reception on the lawn, sponsored by Liberty Blue Estate Agents, Niall Harrington, President of Waterford Chamber, welcomed the large crowd, thanking the sponsors for their longstanding support of the region’s largest business representative organisation. Speaking about

Waterford teacher up for national Teacher of the Year award in Ireland

People are being encouraged to vote for their Teacher of the Year in a national competition in Ireland, with €1250 in Think Waterford First Gift Cards as a possible prize. The teacher with the most votes will be crowned as Teacher of the Year. A Waterford teacher has been nominated in a national Teacher of the Year competition, led by Miconex and sponsored by group collecting platform GiftRound, with €1250 in Think Waterford First Gift Cards as a possible prize. The Think Waterford First Gift Card was

Enterprise Ireland Innovation Vouchers

Is your small or medium-sized business at a cross-roads? Is there an opportunity or a threat on your horizon that you need to explore but you don’t have the time or resources to do it? RIKON at SETU is a specially trained team of business strategists that can assist you and your business in building your future business strategy. Innovation Vouchers are part of a fully-funded (free) grant scheme that is made available by Enterprise Ireland - specifically designed for SMEs in Ireland. RIKON specialises in

Recruitment and Airport top Chamber Q1 Business Sentiment Survey

Waterford Chamber has released the findings of its Q1 Business Sentiment Survey, which shows 39% of respondents say staff recruitment and retention is the top challenge for Waterford businesses.  This is followed by ‘access to finance’ at 17%, with other areas of concern being energy costs, changes in consumer spending and increasing productivity.  Staff costs have proven the top barrier to businesses attracting and retaining staff, with specific skills shortages also proving a concern.   According to

Councillors must hold Local Authority and Government accountable, says Waterford Chamber

Waterford Chamber has launched its Local Government Manifesto 2024, calling on those seeking election to Waterford City & County Council to “put their head above the parapet and be genuine in delivering for Waterford”.  The extensive document outlines the current requirements to drive Waterford forward under three headlines, Vibrant Living City, Infrastructure for the Future and Green Ambition.  According to Niall Harrington, President, Waterford Chamber: “In terms of the local elections, as a community

Network Magazine - Issue 26

IN THIS ISSUE:Levelling up for changeSanofi Waterford: Being a good neighbourNew Capital Gains Tax Angel Investor ReliefEnerpower Greenvolt to create 100 new jobsAileen Barron on 10 years of Green Acre MarketingThe Influencer Equation: Balancing Rewards and Risks for BrandsAward-winning start to 2024Design your bonus structure wisely to maximize tax reliefGrant aid to support you in businessStunning Mount Congreve Forest HotelBite-Size NewsPlus much more!

Chambers Ireland launches its European Election Manifesto

Earlier this month, Chambers Ireland and representatives from across the Irish Chamber Network launched its manifesto for Europe, which focuses on the key priorities for Irish businesses as we move into the 2024-2029 term of European governance. Chief among those priorities are how Ireland can benefit from the Green and Digital transitions, along with delivering a business-friendly, competitive Europe. While in Brussels, Chambers Ireland called on the next EU parliament to focus on: A strategic,

Waterford Chamber calls for review of restrictions in the Small Benefits Exemption Scheme

Waterford Chamber has been approached by a number of the larger employers in Waterford, asking us to make representation on their behalf regarding the Small Benefits Exemption Scheme. This Scheme is largely welcomed by employers and they are ancious to maximise it for the benefit of their employees. However, there is a restriction which is causing problems and Waterford Chamber has asked Minister for Finance, Michael McGrath to review it. Under Irish Revenue rules, the scheme allows employees to receive up

Waterford selected to host World Rally Championship

Rallying clubs, motor enthusiasts and the business community across the South East are celebrating today, as MotorSport Ireland President Mr. Aiden Harper announced the World Rally Championships is set to be hosted in the region for one of the three years, with Limerick and Kerry hosting the other two years.  This will be the largest event ever to be staged in the region, with the base camp being specially erected in Waterford, attracting thousands of visitors to Waterford and surrounding counties, as well

Network Magazine - Issue 25

IN THIS ISSUE:Retail Giant, Local Hero - TONY FITZGERALD receives Special Recognition AwardCARTEN CONTROLS named Overall Waterford Business of the YearGlobal GIY ambition for Entrepreneur of the Year MICHAEL KELLY2024 and what it might have in store for us - Jim PowerDynamic Duo leading the charge at GROW HQClem Jacob Hire protecting Waterford from carbon emissionsFinding your passionWaterford City & County Council Autumn ReviewEnergia Group and Vårgrønn new partnershipWorks progressing well on North

New gift card for Waterford unveiled in time for Christmas

The new Think Waterford First Gift Card replaces the previous paper system operated by Waterford Chamber  The transition of the €1million paper-based Waterford Gift Voucher to the new Think Waterford First Gift Card is complete with the modern gift card now available to buy.  Driven by Waterford Chamber of Commerce, with the support of Waterford City & County Council, the new gift card can be spent with Waterford businesses, keeping money locked into the county.  Launching the new gift card, Cllr Joe

Sign up to the new Waterford Gift Card

Waterford Chamber in partnership with Waterford City & County Council are excited to announce that we will soon be transitioning the Waterford Shop Local Gift Voucher Scheme from paper-based to credit card. This will allow much more flexibility of use for all and we see it as a huge step forward in the initiative to support the Shop Local campaign. As a participating business in the Waterford Gift Voucher scheme, we hope for your continued support and we now invite you to sign up to accept the Waterford

Network Magazine - Issue 23

IN THIS ISSUE:Shining Star: Éadaoin Carrick wins Business Woman of the Year AwardHaleon celebrate 40 years of global healthcareQuantum technology experts gather in WaterfordTransformative journey for Emagine in SavannahThe drive to succeed in propertyLighting up with EnergiaGetting buy-in is key for RoPAA summer of fun guaranteed with our Waterford festivals guideWaterford Food Bank feeds one millionSpring review with Waterford CouncilCrime Prevention & Safety AdviceBite-Size NewsDiscovering

Waterford: A City of Opportunity

Waterford City & County Council and Waterford Chamber have collaborated with SETU to explore the scope of opportunities for Waterford City Centre, by engaging RIKON and EY to carry out research and feasibility studies respectively. Under the banner of Waterford A City of Opportunity, you can now view and download the reports below. We ask that you use this information to promote Waterford as a great place to live, work, do business and invest in and to share extensively with your contacts so we can

Network Magazine - Issue 22

IN THIS ISSUE:Mervyn O’Callaghan named Entrepreneur of the YearNigel M. Daly Electrical leading the chargeThe start of Waterford’s renaissanceA new way of workingThe new 4-day weekAutism friendly workplaceSavvy employers acknowledge ‘Employee’s Market’The Power of PurposeThe power and pitfalls of AI for BusinessSanofi supports Shona ProjectNorth Celtic Sea Offshore Wind Project progressBite-Size NewsMailo shines as Network PresidentPlus much more!

Network Magazine - Issue 21

IN THIS ISSUE:President Paul Nolan optimistic for the futureUS Ambassador hails Irish generosity and global ambitionSETU: The Gateway to SuccessSuccessful End of Year for Waterford City & County CouncilUncertain Economic Times5 steps to reducing energy costs this winterEngineering the South EastBite-Size NewsWaterford’s Blue Plaque TrailThe wonder of WintervalChristmas delights...with Jenny FlynnPlus much more!

Network Magazine - Issue 20

IN THIS ISSUE:Five Pillars to Regional Growth - Patsy Carney, Ireland South EastOnes to watch: Waterford's high potential start-upsWaterford Chamber Pre-Budget SubmissionA seamless way to hand over your throneRe-fashioning the future with Smart GarmentsEnergy Business SupportsNational Women’s Enterprise Day 2022Summer review with Waterford CouncilBite-Size NewsBumper year for Waterford MuseumsWelcome VolunteersWaterford’s Blue Plaque TrailPlus much more!

Network Magazine - Issue 19

IN THIS ISSUE:Under the microscope - Professor Veronica Campbell, SETU's first PresidentSETU — a regional gamechangerSETU will establish the south east as the place of choice for talent and investmentCareer u-turn for brave TraceyWorking from Home and the Hybrid ChallengeSpring review with Waterford CouncilPTSB — Simple banking solutions for small businessesOfficeMaster takes on Promotive’s customer baseWaterford businesses committed to green agendaUrban Forest at Airport Business ParkFast fashion is no

Network Magazine - Issue 16

IN THIS ISSUE:Collaboration for Success - Martin Shanahan, CEO of IDA IrelandNavigating the urban jungleWhat kind of future has Waterford?Business community reunites after 557 daysLaunch of fifth Regional Leaders ProgrammeChamber and Energia Energy PartnershipWaterford – a city of opportunityTime to inject momentum and confidenceA Century of BakingBig business at RepligenSailing into Wellness — not your average team building event!Waterford to become 'City of Light'Decarbonisation by 2040 – how?From Vietnam