Credit Union strengthens SME support with development initiatives

Credit union strengthens SME support with development initiatives

Building on a strong 2024, Clonmel Credit Union is set to enhance its support for local businesses and communities in 2025, focusing on accessible finance for SME and Agri businesses.

As part of their strategy to support businesses in South Tipperary, Clonmel Credit Union organised a first-of-its-kind continuous professional development (CPD) event designed to reinforce the local economy.

The first of these took place on Thursday, March 13th, at Hotel Minella in association with OmniPro and Connext Partners.

SMEs drive the local economy in Tipperary

According to the Central Statistics Office, SMEs or enterprises with fewer than 50 employees make up almost 70 per cent (69.49) of all businesses in Ireland. An analysis of data ranked Tipperary third in Ireland for SMEs per capita. The number of SMEs in Tipperary amounts to 2,014 per 10,000 residents.

The timely CPD event from Clonmel Credit Union offered insights and solutions to workplace challenges, including succession, planning, and tax, driving value and effective sales, and savings and tax tips. The event saw over 70 Accountants gather for upskilling, networking, and gaining access to niche expertise.

The event's keynote speakers were John Murphy, a Partner of OmniPro Tax and Legal Limited and Connext Partners. John, a chartered tax adviser, advises clients on tax, company law, financial reporting, and auditing.

OmniPro co-founder Des O'Neill shared insight into adding business value during his address, underpinned by his background both in private practice and with one of the profession's regulatory institutes. Conor Grimes of Connext Partners, a Fellow of Chartered Accountants Ireland, spoke about optimising the sales process.

Speaking on behalf of Clonmel Credit Union, Michael O'Grady, the newly appointed Head of Credit, commented, "We know SMEs are crucial to our community's vitality and growth.  We are committed to supporting them with accessible, value-driven lending and further education and development opportunities.

We were delighted to host John, Des, and Conor, whose depth of knowledge and expertise provided invaluable insights to our members. Their practical advice and industry experience will make a lasting impression on the local businesses here today.

We take immense pride in the positive impact we have on local businesses and individuals across South Tipperary."

Clonmel Credit Union continues to prioritise SMEs and individual members, with plans to introduce a suite of new sustainability-focused financial products for both private and commercial members.