RDP project database
Promoting the Development of Innovative Ventures in Gwynedd
Summary
The project aimed to give a number of target groups of local individuals the confidence to develop and test new businesses in Gwynedd. It did so through various training workshops, information events, and bursaries.
Background
This project was originally conceived as an idea to make Gwynedd a more attractive place to live. And to do this by promoting the development of quality innovative ventures in Gwynedd. More specifically, it was decided to work with specific target groups, such as children and young people (between 20-30), farming families and the under employed to “wake the enterprising spirit”.
Objective
The main objectives of the project were to: i) raise the self-esteem and confidence of specific target groups (under 10s, young people between 20-30, farming families, community groups & the under employed); ii) provide the opportunity for individuals to trial their (business) ventures; iii) focus on the development of ideas that could support the implementation of the local development strategy. A broader objective of the project was increasing the attractiveness of Gwynedd as a place to live.
Main activities
A series of workshops were held on topics relating to the project objectives. Events were organised targeting the different groups identified, to explore which types of media would most appeal to each group as confidence-building methods. For more specific support, bursaries of up to €1,140 (80%) were made available to individuals who had never embarked on entrepreneurial activities before to assist with piloting new businesses in order to promote the development of innovative ventures.
Results & Benefits
The project successfully raised awareness about new, job and business related, opportunities available to individuals in the specific target groups. It benefited the participants as they left with an increased self-confidence and willingness to engage into entrepreneurial activities. Furthermore the innovative ventures they developed fulfill another objective of the project as they contribute to making Gwynedd a more attractive place to live.
Lessons learnt
This project has found that the use of appropriate role models in information and training events, which attendees can relate to, can be a particularly powerful method of confidence-building and promoting entrepreneurship as a viable career option.
Project location and other information
Gwynedd
Region
Wales
RDP Territory
Wales
Total project cost (€)
775 770
EAFRD contribution (€)
537 966
National contribution (€)
152 304
Private contribution (€)
85 500
Contact name
Iwan Morris Gwyn, Gwynedd Council on behalf of Gwynedd Economic Partnership
Telephone
+44 1286 679628
Languages for contact
English
At a glance
Country
United Kingdom
Final beneficiary type
Public/local authorities, Other
Budget range
> €500 000
Start date:
28/02/2010
End Date:
28/02/2011
Theme / Measure:
Rural Quality of Life & Economic Diversification
Training and skills acquisition
331. Training and information
Keywords:
Awareness raising, Local development strategy, Entrepreneurship, Young people
Last update
20/03/2013