ePubDirect Scoops ‘Innovation That Matters’ Accolade
it@cork’s European Technology Cluster today announced ePubDirect, a global eBook distributor as the overall winners of this year’s Innovation that Matters programme. Now in its second year, the initiative continues to identify, recognise and promote indigenous technology in the Region.
CEO, Gareth Cuddy, ePubDirect said “The management and staff of ePubDirect are thrilled to receive this award. It is a great boost for the team to have our hard work recognised by our peers and IT industry experts. We look forward to our executive trip to China; it is a market of strategic focus for ePubDirect and an opportunity for the company to further expand its retailer reach.”
ePubDirect were awarded a trip to China which was kindly sponsored by Cork City Council to allow the winning party experience how invaluable it is to conduct business with the Chinese market. Avnet Client Solutions also contributed a sum of €2,000 to support the trip.
Ian O’ Flynn, Bord Gáis Networks & Innovation that Matters programme manager said “We were delighted with the calibre and volume of entries this year. One of our key objectives was to reinforce how invaluable it is to build relationships and strengthen Cork’s existing business connections with China. ePubDirect and its winning entry eBookInsights were very in tune with the Chinese market and the potential opportunities that can be maximised within this lucrative market”.
Runners up for Innovation that Matters included Trustev and Airdyer who have secured places on UCC’s “ Doing Business in China” modules which are a series of introductory online models covering everything from geography and politics of China, to information on identifying customers, how to meet, negotiation and ultimately closing the deal.
“Bord Gais Networks are delighted to continue its association with “Innovation that Matters” and particularly the “Power of the Network” whereby we will sponsor the it@Cork European Tech Cluster membership for 10 of the top entries.” said Dermot Kelleher, Head of IT, Bord Gais Networks.
Russell Quigley, Pickacab, won the Innovation that Matters initiative in 2012 and was awarded a cash prize and an invitation to a trade mission to Chicago.
"The IT industry and startup sector are critical to Ireland Inc's growth. It is vital that we cultivate, collaborate and drive innovative platforms in support of this imperative. Innovation that Matters is one of many streams the European Tech Cluster is driving to help lead our economic recovery said Denis Collins, Chairman of the Board, it@cork, European Tech Cluster.