Micro-Enterprise Networks.

FIRST-STEP WITH THE SUPPORT OF ACTIVATION FUNDS SETS UP MICRO-ENTERPRISE DEVELOPMENT NETWORKS

With the support of the Activation Funds First-Step is setting up 10 regional micro-enterprise learning networks, for unemployed people who wish to become self-employed. Each learning network will aim to strengthen the entrepreneurial potential of each participant.

The emphasis of this innovative programme is to support and encourage the participant through the final stages of business planning and into the early stage development of his or her own business.

What makes the micro-enterprise development networks unique is that the micro-enterprise network will follow a clear progression from business idea to entrepreneurship skills to provision of start-up capital and will include early stage mentoring supports.

Short-Term Enterprise Allowance.

The Short-Term Enterprise Allowance (STEA) provides support to people who have lost their job and want to start their own business.

To qualify you must be getting Jobseeker’s Benefit. There is no qualifying period, which means you do not need to be getting Jobseeker’s Benefit for a certain period of time. However, you will not qualify if you are getting Jobseeker’s Benefit and working part-time.

The Short-Term Enterprise Allowance is paid instead of your Jobseeker’s Benefit for a maximum of 1 year. It ends when your entitlement to Jobseeker's Benefit ends (that is, at either 9 months or 12 months). If you are unemployed when your entitlement to STEA ends you will not immediately re-qualify for Jobseeker’s Benefit. However, you can apply for Jobseeker’s Allowance, which is a means-tested payment.

Back to Work Enterprise Allowance.

The Back to Work Enterprise Allowance (BTWEA) scheme encourages people getting certain social welfare payments to become self-employed. People taking part in the Back to Work Enterprise Allowance scheme (pdf) can keep a percentage of their social welfare payment for up to 2 years.

From 1 May 2009, the qualifying period required for BTWEA is reduced from 2 years to 12 months provided you have an underlying entitlement to Jobseekers Allowance.

A new Back to Work Scheme called the Short-Term Enterprise Allowance started May 2009. There is no qualifying period for the Short-Term Enterprise Allowance. You can get immediate access to the allowance but you must meet the qualifying conditions.

Setting up a business.

If you are thinking of starting a business there are a number of issues you need to consider. Different supports and regulations apply, depending on your particular situation. You may be employed, unemployed or someone who is coming from outside Ireland to set up a business. This document highlights some of the important information you need to know with links to relevant topics.