Irish start-up, Johnny Magory Business, has embarked on a new pilot programme with the North Eastern University Boston, MA and the Kildare Local Enterprise Office to enter the coveted North American market.
Following a trade mission to Boston in October 2019 with the Kildare Chamber of Commerce and the Kildare County Council, relationships were established with the world-renowned North-Eastern University.
Jacqui McNabb, Head of Enterprise, Kildare, recognised the opportunity in the XR programme where graduates are assigned to a business to carry out specific research. The Kildare LEO (Local Enterprise Office) developed a 10-month programme for 10 Kildare businesses to have access to a team of graduates who will complete a strategic marketing plan. The businesses will also have access to expert advice and mentoring from HMC Global.
The programme will conclude with a second trade mission to Boston in October 2020.
Speaking on the programme, Jacqui McNabb said “We are extremely excited for the businesses given this is the first pilot of its kind for both sides of the Atlantic. We have been working on a weekly basis with the university and have a very comprehensive program to support their export opportunities now in place. The programme will be in two parts; firstly the businesses partnership with their own dedicated research team in the US; and secondly a number of export workshops and individual mentorship with HMC Global to be delivered in the offices of Kildare LEO”.
Johnny Magory Business under the direction of CEO Emma-Jane Leeson intends on targeting the Irish American diaspora with their popular book series “The Adventures of Johnny Magory” which help to reconnect families with Ireland’s unique wildlife and heritage.
Launched in April 2019, the business has grown exponentially, now employing 3 people from its rural base in Ballynafagh, Co. Kildare.
The other businesses on the export programme are: Trouble Brewing, The Irish Biltong Company, Timbercroc, Cinderella Shoes, S-Man, Viztronics, Hub 360, CarveOn and Equine Medirecords.