“Off We Go”, an LIT-LEAP 2008 participant and the brainchild of Avril Webster, has won first prize at the 4FM and Sunday Business Post start up business competition ‘Doing it For Themselves’.
The winning package includes an advertising and communications package worth 15,000 euro.
“Avril Webster is a superb ambassador for the LEAP programme,” according to Donncha Hughes, manager of the Enterprise Acceleration Centre at LIT.
“The story of how Off We Publishing was founded and has developed over the last two years is an inspiration to all budding entrepreneurs. Avril created the Off We Go series of books for her own son, Stephen, who has a severe developmental brain disorder, because she could not find resources to help Stephen. The books take everyday situations such as going swimming or going to the hairdresser and breaks down the experience into a 12 step sequence using simple clear pictures. The books have received a superb reaction in Ireland and the UK since publication from teachers, parents and experts as they help children to get through everyday tasks and situations.”
Mr Hughes added that he was not surprised that Avril was awarded first place by the judges in the 4FM business competition as she made huge progress over the twelve months of the LEAP 2008 programme. “Her passion and commitment for the business has to be seen to be believed. Among the milestones achieved by the business is the launch of the website www.offwego.ie where the books can be purchased; attendance at UK trade shows; placing of the books with Hughes & Hughes and other book retailers nation-wide; and development of the next series of books. Over the last two years, Avril has successfully turned her passion to help children with learning difficulties into a viable business. The LEAP programme has an end of year business plan competition. Avril won 1st prize to the value of 5000 euro in early June so it is no surprise that the ‘Doing it for Themselves’ judges were equally impressed.”
