Bank of Ireland today announced the launch what it terms a new independent mentoring initiative that is targeted at its SME customers to help and support them through these challenging times. Called ‘Enterprise Builder’, this new consultation service is exclusively designed to support growing enterprises in various stages of business development.

Created for SMEs and confidential to the customer, the free service consists of a diagnostic review provided by an independent and qualified mentor who has industry experience in the sector in which the business operates. The initiative, the first such service to be launched by a bank in Ireland, is designed to provide guidance and support to SMEs, highlighting key challenges and recommending and potential solutions.

Enterprise Builder is managed by the Discovery Partnership network on behalf of Bank of Ireland Business Banking and is responsible for recruiting and training suitable mentors with appropriate experience and consultative skills to provide this service.

SMEs who register for this service will be matched with an appropriate industry experienced mentor. They will offer an initial assessment, review and diagnostic report completely free of charge. The value of this mentoring initiative for the Bank’s SME customers is approximately €1,250. The mentors are independent experts with over 20 years experience and a track record of helping businesses to succeed. They will act as a confidential sounding board, advising SMEs on developing skills and overcoming barriers to growth. The Bank’s SME customers can opt for additional mentoring days at a cost.