A highly successful meeting was held on 15th October 2008 in the Tower Hotel, Waterford which was attended by up to 100 people.

The Waterford Micro Business Network (WMBN) was set up in 2006 following the completion of a number of Enterprise Business Training Workshops for people setting up their own businesses and entering the world of self-employment for the first time.

Membership of the Network continues to grow and meetings are held on a monthly basis. These meetings generally take place on the second Wednesday of each month.

An initial presentation was made by Liam Murphy, Department of Social and Family Affairs and Joe Kelly, Enterprise Officer, Waterford Area Partnership Ltd on the various supports and options available in setting up your own business. Joe Kelly stated that a "One Stop Shop" of supports is available to clients from Pre Start-Up Enterprises right through to the establishment and continuing prosperity of the business.

Guest speaker, Mr Kevin Jephson of Ardkeen Quality Food Store gave a very interesting and informative presentation on the establishment of a new business and putting innovative procedures in place to meet new challenges. Kevin emphasised the quality and local sourcing of produce available in their store.

Sandra Murray of Waterford Weddings briefed the Network on the range of services that her business offers. This is an online website that couples who are planning a Waterford wedding can use to find all the things that they need to achieve their dream day.

Stephen Byrne, Founder and Creative Director of the Waterford Film Festival gave a flavour of some of his previous works and also on his plans for the next Waterford Film Festival taking place on 5 – 9th November 08.

Peter McGrath, EXCEL in Life spoke about the issues of working alone and the necessity to generate cash flow in several different ways particularly during the early years of the business.

A number of businesses exhibited on the evening and an extraordinary array of services and products were displayed.

Joe Kelly thanked the speakers and also the Management committee of the Network namely Clare Ferguson, Chairperson, Peter McGrath, Honorary Secretary, Sandra Murray, Ronan Cleary, Niall Coady and Tracy O'Connor for all their valuable work. The Network continues to grow and attract new members who find it very beneficial and supportive.