How to get Website Enterprise Ireland Grants (LEO) for your Small Business

For many small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), the cost of developing and maintaining a professional website can be a barrier. That's where the Trading Online Voucher (TOV), also known as the LEO grant (Local Enterprise Office Grant) comes into play, offering Irish businesses an opportunity to enhance their online capabilities without straining their budgets. In this blog post, we'll delve into the details of the Trading Online Voucher scheme and how we can help you make the most of this valuable resource. So, how do you get the website LEO grant in Ireland?

Understanding the Trading Online Voucher Scheme

The Trading Online Voucher (TOV) scheme is an initiative to help through the Government’s National Digital Strategy in Ireland. It’s primary aim is to provide financial assistance to small businesses looking to establish or enhance their online trading presence. The scheme offers grants of up to €2,500 (with co-funding of 50% required from the business) to eligible businesses, helping them to cover the costs of developing or upgrading their websites, as well as other online strategies like e-commerce, digital marketing, social media, and search engine optimisation.

LEO Grant Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the Trading Online Voucher scheme, businesses must meet certain criteria:

• Small Business Status: The business must have 10 employees or less and an annual turnover of less than €2 million.
• Limited Online Trading Presence: The business should have little or no online trading presence before applying.
• Trading for at Least 6 Months: The business must be trading for at least six months before applying.
• Location: You must apply to the relevant Local Enterpirse Office, the one that covers your area, grants cannot be applied if you are outside of their jurisdiction.
• Must Attend Training: Applicants are required to attend a Trading Online Voucher information session.

How the Scheme Works

Eligible businesses can apply for a voucher through their Local Enterprise Office (LEO). Once approved, the voucher can be used to cover the costs of specific online services, such as:

• Developing a professional e-commerce website
• Implementing a secure online payment system
• Enhancing the website's usability and user experience
• Integrating digital marketing strategies
• Improving search engine optimization (SEO) techniques

Studio Nowinter: Your Partner in Maximising the TOV

Navigating the world of web development and online marketing can be overwhelming, especially for small businesses with limited resources. That's where Studio Nowinter can come in. We specialise in helping businesses establish and expand their online presence. With the TOV scheme providing a unique opportunity for SMEs to receive financial assistance, partnering with Studio Nowinter can help you get the most out of your voucher.

Our Services Aligned with the TOV Scheme

At Studio Nowinter, we offer a comprehensive range of web development and digital marketing services that align perfectly with the objectives of the Trading Online Voucher scheme. Here's how we can help:

• Professional Website Development: Our experienced team of web developers can create a tailor-made, user-friendly website that aligns with your brand identity and business goals. Whether you're starting from scratch or upgrading an existing website, we ensure your online presence stands out from the crowd.
• E-Commerce Solutions: If you're looking to set up an online store, we specialize in developing robust e-commerce platforms that facilitate seamless transactions and provide an enjoyable shopping experience for your customers.
• Mobile Optimisation: With the increasing use of mobile devices, having a responsive website is crucial. We optimize websites to ensure they look and function flawlessly across various devices, enhancing user experience and search engine rankings.
• SEO Enhancement: Being easily discoverable on search engines can significantly impact your online success. We employ proven SEO techniques to improve your website's rankings and drive organic traffic.
• Transparent Pricing: We provide clear and transparent pricing, ensuring you understand how your voucher will be used and what additional costs, if any, might be incurred.
• Ongoing Support: Your online journey doesn't end with the completion of your project. We offer ongoing support, maintenance, and updates to keep your website and digital strategies up to date and effective.

Applying for the TOV: Your Next Steps

Ready to take your business to the next level with the Trading Online Voucher scheme? Here's what you need to do:

• Attend an Information Session: To be eligible for the TOV scheme, attending an information session or workshop is a prerequisite. Check with your Local Enterprise Office for upcoming sessions.
• Contact Studio Nowinter: Once you've attended the information session and understand the requirements, get in touch with Studio Nowinter. We can help you define your online goals.
• Submit Your Application: With the assistance of Studio Nowinter, submit your TOV application to your Local Enterprise Office. We will provide the information you need from us including a breakdown quotation.
• Kickstart Your Online Transformation: Once your application is approved, it's time to kickstart your online transformation. Studio Nowinter will work closely with you to bring your online vision to life and help you maximise the benefits of your voucher.

Studio Nowinter - Web Design & Development

With the assistance of Studio Nowinter, you can leverage this scheme to its fullest potential, enhancing your website, expanding your e-commerce capabilities, and implementing effective digital marketing strategies. Don't miss out on the chance to thrive in the digital age – contact Studio Nowinter today and embark on a journey of online success.