Those who completed the ACORNS pilot in 2016 were offered the opportunity to participate in a further development phase. 98% availed themselves of the opportunity presented for further support through ACORNS.  The progress of these 43 entrepreneurs since their first involvement in ACORNS is very impressive.

• Their combined sales increased by just over €2 million over the 15 months to the end of 2016 to €4 million (103%).
• The number of exporters increased to 11. One in four of the ACORNS pilot participants are now exporting.
• Their combined employment increased over the 15 months by just over a third to 107.
• The participants are confidently projecting further growth in sales, exports and employment by the end of 2017.