Get the most out of TOV: A How to Guide for the Trading Online Voucher

Get the most out of TOV: A How to Guide for the Trading Online Voucher Having a business online is not just good for small businesses but often necessary for their survival and growth. The Trading Online Voucher Scheme, run by Local Enterprise Offices (LEOs) across Ireland helps small businesses to get online. This guide goes into the nitty gritty of the scheme—what it is, what are the benefits, who is eligible, how to apply and strategic tips to get the most out of it. What is the Trading Online Voucher Scheme The Trading Online Voucher (TOV) Scheme is a government-funded initiative to encourage small businesses to go online and get online. By providing up to €2,500 (or 50% of eligible costs), the scheme allows businesses to invest in website development, e-commerce platforms, e-commerce websites, digital marketing strategies and related training. The aim is to help small businesses expand their market, increase online sales and be more competitive in the digital space. TOV Benefits for Small Businesses For small businesses navigating the world of online commerce, the TOV Scheme has many benefits. Firstly, it provides financial support to offset the costs of getting online or upgrading online platforms. This means not just developing new websites or upgrading existing ones but also implementing e-commerce functionality that allows for seamless transactions. Secondly, it encourages innovation by getting businesses to adopt digital marketing strategies, including online advertising, to drive traffic to their online portal and increase visibility to their target audience. Thirdly, by using the TOV, businesses can explore new markets both domestically and internationally and diversify their revenue streams and growth. Trading Online Voucher Eligibility and Application Who can apply for the Trading Online Voucher? To be eligible for the TOV Scheme, businesses must meet certain criteria. They must be registered and trading in the Republic of Ireland, have fewer than 10 employees and an annual turnover of €2 million or less. Businesses must also demonstrate a genuine commitment to trading online as evidenced by their intention to use the voucher to get online. Eligibility Criteria and Documents Required Businesses applying for the TOV must have been trading for at least 6 months and have a physical presence in Ireland. Recent financial statements, proof of turnover, employee numbers, and business registration details are typically required to verify eligibility. These documents, which must include proper business details, are used to assess the business’s ability to use the voucher effectively and achieve measurable outcomes. What Can I Use the TOV Voucher For? The TOV can be used for a range of activities to get online, including covering approved voucher costs. This includes developing new websites that meet customer needs, upgrading existing websites to improve user experience, implementing e-commerce functionality for seamless transactions, purchasing internet-related software, and digital marketing strategies to drive website traffic and customer engagement. Terms and Conditions of the Scheme Businesses must comply with the terms and conditions of the TOV Scheme. The maximum value of the voucher is €2,500 or 50% of eligible costs, excluding VAT. Prior approval from the LEO is required before starting any project work to ensure all work aligns with the scheme’s objectives and guidelines. Businesses must also complete their online projects within a set timeframe and submit required documentation for review and verification. Note: The purchase of online advertising and professional photography can only be drawn down in one payment phase. How to Apply for The TOV Register for the TOV Information Webinar To start the application process, prospective applicants should register for an information webinar with their Local Enterprise Office. These webinars will provide valuable information on the scheme’s requirements, application process and project expectations. By attending businesses will get a full understanding of how to prepare and submit a strong application that meets the scheme’s criteria. Download and Complete the Application Form After the webinar, businesses can download the trading online voucher grant application form from the LEO’s website. The form must be completed fully and accurately detailing the proposed online project, expected outcomes, and budget breakdown. Clear and concise information is key to supporting the business’s eligibility and demonstrating how the voucher will be used. Our trusted system has already assisted many clients in Ireland in getting government grants, making their online presence better and bringing in more customers and profits. Our team is here for you, ready to help from the beginning to the end. Read more about our process here: Trading Online Voucher Application Process TOV Application Process and Timeline How Long Does the Approval Process Take? The approval process takes 1-4 weeks after submission of the application form. During this time the LEO will assess the proposal based on feasibility, deliverables, timeline, budget and impact on the business’s online activities. Successful applicants will receive a formal letter of offer outlining the approved amount and conditions of the voucher. Spending and Claiming the Voucher Once the letter of offer is received businesses can engage with their chosen service provider to start the approved online project. They must stick to the project timeline and budget and ensure all expenses align with the scope of work. Once the project is complete businesses will submit the required documentation (letter of offer, project plan and budget breakdown) to the LEO for final review and payment of the voucher. How a Marketing Agency in Ireland Can Help You Get the Grant Navigating the TOV Scheme can be challenging for many small businesses, especially when crafting a robust application that meets all the scheme’s requirements. This is where our team steps in to ensure you not only access the TOV but also maximise its benefits. Here’s how we can assist you: 1. Digital Strategy and Implementation Expertise Our agency specialises in developing online projects that align perfectly with the TOV Scheme’s objectives. We start by assessing your current digital footprint, identifying areas for enhancement, and proposing tailored solutions to maximise the voucher’s impact. Whether it’s enhancing website usability or launching targeted digital campaigns, we tailor strategies