Entrepreneur Ciara Stanley knows a thing or two about support. With deep roots in Irish farming, retail, and rural life, Ciara is passionate about backing local producers, stocking their wares in her thriving farm shop, Coppenagh Farm House.
When Ciara took on her third business venture, a rural-inspired Irish clothing brand Ballybar Ireland (she also owns Ardattin Embroidery), she looked into what government supports were available.
Through her Local Enterprise Office, she received grants to strengthen Ballybar’s digital presence, investing in SEO, and building a better online store. Meanwhile, mentorship and strategy sessions helped her refine her go-to-market approach and prepare for expansion.
With exporting in her sights, she received funding to attend customer meetings in Belgium and Scotland, and used a Micro-Exporters Grant to exhibit at the Royal Highland Show.