What is it?
The Tourism Learning Networks programme is designed to support the development of small, medium and micro enterprises (SMEs) within the tourism industry through encouraging better business planning and management.
How does it work?
The Networks are focused on action-based learning where participation and interaction are encouraged and all participants will be supported to prepare a Business Plan. Good practice is shared and leading-edge knowledge and skills are acquired through involvement in workshops and seminars, meetings and use of online business supports including eLearning modules from Harvard Business School.
2009 networks will have a minimum of 25 participants on each and many of the Networks will themed, for example, adventure, heritage, golf etc. in accordance with Fáilte Ireland’s goals and priorities for industry.
The programme includes a core element, representing about 70% of the total programme, which includes one-to-one support of approximately one-and-a-half hours per participant, eLearning and training in the five key areas:
- Finance and Business Development
- Marketing
- Human Resources
- Information Technology
- Environmental and Energy Management
The programme also includes a variable element, representing about 30% of the total programme, to meet individual Networks’ specific needs. For each Network in 2009, learning and networking events are likely to be structured along the following lines and most events are scheduled for the off-peak season:
- One one-day Network briefing involving up to three Networks
- One one-day training workshop involving up to three Networks
- One two-day residential seminar in the first quarter of the year, involving up to three Networks
- One two-day residential seminar in the last quarter of the year, involving three Networks or all Networks
- Six half-day meetings for each Network scheduled
What are the benefits?
To date, the Networks have resulted in participants developing their businesses in a number of ways. Participants’ personal development is also facilitated and acknowledged through the provision of a HETAC Certificate in Tourism Business Practice. Participants who are awarded this Certificate will be eligible to progress to the Fáilte Ireland B.Sc. in Small Enterprise Management which is being developed in association with Waterford Institute of Technology, and which will commence in 2010.
Who is it for?
Participants are owner managers of small and micro tourism enterprises, particularly those employing less then 20 people. The Tourism Learning Networks also include ‘associate members’ such as tourism representative bodies, County Enterprise Boards, County Councils, LEADER groups and other interested parties.
For further information contact Breda McNally, Professional Development Advisor, Tourism Learning Networks
Tel: 01 884 7758 or E-mail: breda.mcnally@failteireland.ie
