New Book: Entrepreneurship in Ireland

Post date: May 11, 2011 11:42:38 PM

Enterprise is essential for the economic, social and cultural development of all nations. The United States of America is always regarded as a very enterprising society, where the growth of small businesses is the chief motivator of economic development. Entrepreneurship and innovation are part of the fabric of that society, reinforced by educational, economic, social and political institutions as well as the media. Attitudes are conditioned by the great American dream, that anyone, regardless of background, can make it in business, and where failure is seen as a learning experience. Entrepreneurship is espoused early as a possible career choice and constantly acclaimed by society.

Despite its current economic difficulties, Ireland is developing rapidly as an entrepreneurial society. More Irish people are now starting and managing their own businesses. With amazing ingenuity, these businesses are introducing new products and services, adopting modern technologies, developing export markets and creating new jobs. Irish entrepreneurs are now seen as desirable role-models, modern patriots and wealth creators, attitudes which are supported and nurtured by society and its institutions. The Irish State is now making a huge investment in research and development in an effort to create a knowledge economy, with the objective of successfully commercializing new intellectual capital. In this context, Ireland still needs more entrepreneurship at all levels, an increasing number of start-ups, fewer failures, and the development of a significant number of innovative businesses with the capacity to develop scale and trade in international markets. This pro-business environment is also attractive for foreign direct investment in the country.

My recently published book, Entrepreneurship in Ireland (published by Gill & Macmillan) is a contribution to that process. It covers the enterprise environment in Ireland, possible business opportunities, marketing, finance, taxation, employing staff, start-up, growth and exit strategies, all in the Irish context.

Frank Ryan, CEO of Enterprise Ireland, in the foreword states: "this book allows entrepreneurs to understand, plan, and manage all key aspects of starting a business and will no doubt assist, guide and motivate future generations of innovative entrepreneurs."