Employment

50 jobs to be created in Meath by SmartStart companies

By Business & Finance
28 August 2014

SmartStart has today announced that two of its accelerator programme participants, SWG and MDS Global Technologies, will create 50 jobs in Meath over the next two years.

Located in Kells Enterprise and Technology Centre, the new jobs will be created across a number of areas including engineering, research and design, sales and support, marketing and administration.

Established in 2011, SmartStart is an Irish centric global accelerator programme for high-potential technology companies. Driven by international entrepreneurs and business mentors, SmartStart works with start-ups to provide financial, legal, technology and business development guidance.

SWG, a Philadelphia-based company, works with customers to grow their telecommunications networks, repurpose, reuse and recycle their existing telecommunications equipment. The SmartStart programme provided a landing pad and interim Chief Executive for the company as well as access to established agency relationships within Ireland. The company is set to create 25 jobs as part of this announcement.

MDS Global Technologies transports IP data using existing infrastructure and networks at a significantly higher rate than other providers. A US based company, MDS will locate all Global sales and technical support functions in Kells Enterprise Technology Centre, Meath creating 25 jobs. SmartStart has mentored MDS for over two years in business development, corporate structure and Angel-led seed funding.

Commenting on the announcement, Minister of State for Skills, Research and Innovation Damien English said: “This is a very significant development for Co. Meath, the region and indeed Ireland as we continue to attract high potential start-ups and established technology SMEs looking to expand in to Europe. SmartStart is a recognised international accelerator programme providing ambitious entrepreneurs and growing companies with the platform required to develop their businesses further. The programme is an example of how Irish expertise and guidance can facilitate growth that impacts on the international stage.”

Founder and CEO of SmartStart, Gerry Moan commented: “This announcement marks the third anniversary of SmartStart and we are delighted to facilitate the growth of these companies, and help bring them to Ireland. At SmartStart we foster innovation and the entrepreneurial spirit in our high potential partners, encouraging them to develop in a structured and measured environment. The SmartStart programme is an all-island accelerator programme as we believe Ireland as a location, and not just Dublin, is ideal for high potential international technology companies and start-ups.”

Jackie Maguire, chief executive, Meath County Council said: “We are delighted to welcome SWG and MDS Global Technologies to Co. Meath as part of the SmartStart programme. With access to international transport links and a highly developed integrated business infrastructure offering, this announcement is a further endorsement of Meath as a place to do business.”