THE MINISTER for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation has announced details of a new programme aimed at placing college graduates with export-led firms.

Batt O’Keeffe said the scheme would create job opportunities and boost exports.

Graduates 4 International Growth (G4IG) has been developed by Enterprise Ireland in association with the Smurfit Business School. Scheduled to run for 18 months, it will see 50 graduates securing six-month placements with Enterprise Ireland client companies locally. The graduates will then take part in 12-month placements in a relevant overseas market.

Successful participants will be awarded a post-graduate diploma in international growth by the Smurfit Business School.

“Ireland’s economic recovery will be export-led, and this innovative programme will initially place 50 graduates in firms with high growth potential where they can help explore new business opportunities in global markets,” Mr O’Keeffe said.

G4IG is open to graduates holding at least a 2.2 honours degree in any discipline. Enterprise Ireland will pay the full €7,900 cost of the post-graduate diploma and will help to cover some salary costs up to a maximum of €20,000 annually. Enterprise Ireland will also contribute to additional salary-related costs in relation to time spent overseas by the graduate.

The deadline for applications from firms and graduates is September 27th. Further details at www. enterprise-ireland.com/g4ig