Tag: small

WOLFANG Mini 1080p Home Cinema Projector Review

The WOLFANG (WP06)  Mini Projector, Home Cinema Projector for Bedroom is Portable with 1080P Full HD Supported with Auto Keystone Correction, 50% Zoom & 180° Rotation and is Compatible with iOS/Android/Switch/Laptop/TV Stick and comes in at a cheap price however it only has 200 Ansi Lumen.

This howewer has no store on board but works directly from your smartphone and other devices making it versitile and also very portable which is great for the home or travel.It features HDMI and USB ports, and notably, it supports a direct wired connection for iOS. You can plug your iPhone’s charging cable directly into the projector’s USB port to mirror your screen without needing a separate adapter which I like bit you need more for Android devices.

There is several buttons top to control the projector which again are on board the remote control which makes it again fucntional.

The integrated stand is the WP06’s best feature. Unlike traditional boxy projectors that require a tripod or a stack of books, you can tilt the WP06 directly at the ceiling or at an angle. This makes it perfect for “lying down” viewing in bed. It can be mounted too and basically placed in any postion.

For a budget unit, the inclusion of auto-keystone is a huge plus. If you tilt the projector up or down, it will automatically squares the image so it doesn’t look like a lopsided trapezoid.

Oveall for the money it is a great addition it is not the best in the world but brings you taste of the large screen and what projectors are like and will give you an idea of what more expensive ones can do in your home which I have and love.

Features

  • 1080P Support & Native 720P Clarity】Delivers sharp, vivid visuals for movies, gaming, and shows; perfect for bedroom movie nights or casual home entertainment without compromising on image quality. Using a projection screen delivers a better viewing experience. (Contact us if needed.)
  • 【iOS & Android Dual Connection】It’s a nice phone projector that works seamlessly with iOS & Android devices: Wired – Plug & play with your iOS charging cable directly; Android devices require an HDMI adapter. Wireless – Enjoy seamless streaming without cables, simply connect via a Dongle. (Contact our support team if you need a dongle.)
  • 【Flexible Adjustment & Clear Magnification】50% zoom captures distant objects clearly, suitable for enlarging movie scenes, presentations or gaming visuals without blurriness.180° rotation enables easy mounting in any angle, delivering flexible viewing for home theaters or office setups.
  • 【Ultra-Compact & Travel-Ready】 Lightweight and small-sized, this portable projector is your ideal travel companion; toss it in your backpack for camping trips, hotel stays, or friend gatherings to enjoy big-screen fun on the go.
  • 【Auto Keystone + Low Noise】Automatically adjusts the projection screen., no manual tweaking needed; low-noise fan ensures you focus on your content without annoying buzzing distractions.
  • 【Rich Ports for Movie Nights】The movie projector is equipped with HDMI, USB, 3.5mm headphone jack, and TF card slot; compatible with laptops, Switch, TV sticks, and more – tailor-made for epic family movie nights or solo gaming marathons.
  • 【Lifetime Professional Technical Support】Access expert support anytime you need it, ensuring a seamless user experience. If you have any questions, please find us through our online customer service: 𝐬𝐮𝐩𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭.𝐯𝐜@𝐰𝐨𝐥𝐟𝐚𝐧𝐠.𝐜𝐨, we will solve the problem to your satisfaction as soon as possible.

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Video Review

Small Chess Table with Luxury Finish | Crafted for Discerning Tastes

The Chess experience greatly elevates when you buy it from brands which have been skillfully handcrafting chess sets with finesse, art, and culture. While refined interiors and meaningful leisure exists, few objects balance intellect, craftsmanship, and elegance quite like a small chess table, designed with a luxury finish. More than a compact gaming surface, it represents a statement of taste, where strategic thinking meets timeless design. For those who appreciate exclusivity and detail, a finely crafted chess table becomes both a functional masterpiece and a work of art within the home.

Where Strategy Meets Sophistication

Chess has long helped champion hone intellect, patience, and prestige, which merges with playing the game consistently that at some point becomes intuitive.  When this classic game is paired with luxurious materials and artisanal craftsmanship, it transcends recreation and enters the realm of lifestyle design, which are helpful to become a pro chess player. A luxury small chess table offers the perfect harmony allowing to play chess for sport or leisure. 

Unlike oversized game furniture that takes up a lot of space, these tables fit seamlessly into reading corners, private lounges, home offices, and luxury apartments, without compromising on elegance and space. 

The Appeal of Compact Luxury Furniture

Minimalism and luxury are no longer opposing ideas contradicted with the creation of this small chess table. Today’s exquisite homeowners seek furniture that is refined, purposeful, and versatile . A small chess table with a luxury finish answers this demand perfectly while elevating your interiors.

The compact proportions of the small chess table make it suitable for:

  • Urban residences that have limited space especially in metropolitan cities
  • Executive offices and private studies that demand space
  • Boutique hotels and luxury lounges with timeless incorporation
  • Elegant gift collections for collectors who like compact pieces

Despite its compact size & design, the craftsmanship speaks volumes for its premium finishes, polished edges, and intricate board detailing. This ensures it commands attention without overwhelming the room.

Premium Materials That Define Excellence

The luxury of a chess table is largely defined by the materials used in its creation where its high-end designs often feature:

Solid Hardwood Construction

Woods such as walnut, rosewood, teak, or ebony are carefully selected for durability for its rich natural patterns, which are grainy. These woods age gracefully, developing character over time.

Hand-Polished Luxury Finishes

From high-gloss lacquers to satin matte coatings, luxury finishes elevate the table’s visual depth while protecting it from wear. Many tables undergo multiple layers of hand polishing for a flawless surface.

Inlaid Chessboards

Luxury chess tables often showcase hand-inlaid boards using contrasting wood tones, mother-of-pearl, brass, or marble accents, adding dimension and artistic flair.

Precision Craftsmanship

Every edge, joint, and square is meticulously measured to ensure perfect symmetry, smooth play, and long-lasting stability.

Designed for Discerning Tastes

A luxury small chess table is not designed for mass appeal. It is crafted for those who value detail, heritage, and exclusivity. Each piece reflects intentional design choices, from leg structure and table height to the tactile feel of the playing surface.

For collectors and enthusiasts, these tables often serve as heirloom pieces, objects that can be passed down through generations while retaining their charm and relevance.

Functional Beauty for Modern Living

Beyond aesthetics, functionality plays a crucial role. Many luxury small chess tables incorporate thoughtful features such as:

  • Hidden storage drawers for chess pieces
  • Felt-lined compartments to prevent damage
  • Foldable or detachable legs for flexibility
  • Ergonomic table height for comfortable play

These features enhance usability while maintaining a clean, uncluttered appearance, essential for modern luxury interiors.

A Statement Piece for Interior Design

Interior designers increasingly incorporate chess tables into curated spaces as statement accents. A small chess table with a luxury finish complements a variety of design styles, including:

  • Contemporary minimalism
  • Classic European interiors
  • Art-deco inspired spaces
  • Modern Indian luxury homes

Placed beside a leather armchair or beneath soft ambient lighting, it creates an inviting atmosphere that encourages conversation, contemplation, and connection.

The Perfect Gift for Connoisseurs

Luxury chess tables make exceptional gifts for:

  • Corporate leaders and executives
  • Chess enthusiasts and collectors
  • Housewarming or milestone celebrations
  • Luxury lifestyle gifting

Their blend of intellectual symbolism and artistic craftsmanship makes them meaningful, memorable, and enduring.

Sustainability and Ethical Craftsmanship

Many premium manufacturers now focus on responsibly sourced wood to uphold sustainability, reducing carbon footprint and eco-conscious finishing processes. Choosing a luxury small chess table crafted by skilled artisans supports traditional craftsmanship while promoting sustainability with virtually no impact to the environment with net zero manufacturing processes. Chasing luxury doesn’t mean compromising on the reduction of your carbon footprint goals.

Why Invest in a Luxury Small Chess Table?

Investing in a high-end chess table is not limited to just owning furniture but rather about embracing a lifestyle that values patience, beauty, and carefully crafted design. Unlike mass-produced alternatives, luxury tables retain their value, aesthetic appeal, and emotional significance over time because the material is handpicked and craftsmen craving each piece with intricacies that it deserves. 

They encourage moments of calm in an increasingly fast-paced world, inviting players to slow down, think strategically, and enjoy the art of the game. Enthusiasts often favour premium furniture crafted by skilled artisans, such as the pieces available from dedicated chess stores. Finely made chess tables can also be found on marketplaces like Amazon and eBay, as well as from specialist retailers such as Royal Chess Mall, known to integrate traditional workmanship with contemporary design sensibilities.

Final Thoughts for a Luxury Finish Small Chess Table

A small chess table with a luxury finish is a refined expression of taste, intellect, and craftsmanship. Compact yet commanding, it fits seamlessly into modern living spaces while offering the timeless charm of a classic game. Crafted for discerning tastes, it stands as a symbol of elegance, where every move is made on a surface designed with intention and excellence.

Turning Compliance Into Opportunity: How Small Firms Can Benefit

Compliance to many a small business is viewed as a burden – a box to be ticked or as an outlay. The requirements may be overwhelming, especially in regulatory frameworks to sustainability reporting. 

However, in a strategic manner, compliance may not only be a fulfilment of legal requirements. It has the ability to open up new markets, reach out to the customers, and cement collaborations. Compliance can become a formidable growth and innovation engine in the case of small firms..

Rethinking Compliance as a Value-Add

Small business  is typically associated with cost and complexity by small businesses. Nevertheless, those organizations that develop a different mindset tend to find that compliance results in credibility. Customers, investors and partners are becoming very demanding of transparent and trustworthy businesses. Compliance does not only minimize risk but also makes a firm reliable and forward-thinking.

Competitive Advantage Through Transparency

 Transparency is being sold in a global market. Numerous massive companies today require sustainability and ethical sourcing reports of their suppliers. In the case of small companies, it is an opportunity to distinguish oneself. 

Adherence to the standards of compliance indicates a willingness to engage in the global supply chains.

 As an illustration, the compliances with sustainability standards like Scope 3 from EcoVadis can assist small businesses to demonstrate their desire to be environmentally responsible and attract bigger companies.

Driving Operational Efficiency

Compliance procedures usually have the effect of steering companies to assess and optimize their internal infrastructure. 

This may result in better efficiency. To illustrate, data protection practices not only help to be in compliance with the regulations but will also enhance customer confidence and decrease expensive breaches. 

Equally, environmental compliance can attract small companies to be energy efficient that will reduce expenditure in the long run.

Building Stronger Customer Relationships

Customers are now concerned about ethical practices and sustainability. The compliance requirements allow small business to communicate the sense to the customers that they are determined to do the right thing. This generates loyalty and trust and development of long lasting relationships.

 A business that shows concern about the social, environmental, and governance standards is likely to attract customers.

Attracting Partnerships and Funding

Investors and partners will be happy to do business with companies where the risk is minimized. Compliance will provide the guarantee that a small company is responsible. 

This credibility is potentially a gateway to new alliances, cooperation, and even a way to get access to the sources of funds that might have been inaccessible without it. 

In the case of small companies that have to compete with large corporations, this will level the ground.

Future-Proofing the Business

 Legislation is in a continuous state of development, and it is best to keep up with the current changes to make sure that the small companies are ready to face any new developments in the market. 

By being proactive in compliance, they are able to adjust fast and not to get derailed. Businesses that make compliance a part of their strategy can take the changes to innovate and flourish instead of responding to the pressure of new legislations.

Conclusion

Compliance does not necessarily have to be a burden to a small firm. Companies that accept it as a strategic opportunity are able to enhance their reputation, efficiency, and generate new growth opportunities. 

Compliance can be a driver of long-term success whether it be transparency in supply chains, earning the trust of the customer, or drawing partnerships. 

Small businesses who perceive compliance beyond a mandate will not only survive in a competitive world but they will flourish.

Top 5 SFX power supplies for small form factor builds in 2025

Are SFX power supplies ideal for small form factor (SFF) PCs? For sure. At Seasonic, they offer the well-known and time-proven SFX power supply FOCUS Series. They are perfectly fit for the SFF form factor, which our clients highlighted the most. Primarily, because they combine the mix of effectiveness, compact size, and reliable work even during peak loads.

They have a standard size: 125 mm × 125 mm × 63,5 mm. This ensures compatibility with most of the small form factor cases. With the 80 PLUS® Gold certification, they eliminate threats and save you electricity. Particularly, gave 90% of effective work while 50% workload.  

With a 10-year warranty from Seasonic, they bring a high-productive performance to your PC and a long lifespan to its components. Additionally, they are fully modular, which makes it highly comfortable to connect extra components or conveniently organise existing ones. 

How do you choose the right SFX PSU based on wattage and efficiency?

When picking the right SFX PC power supply for a small form factor (SFF) PC, here are a few key things to keep in mind:

Power capacity. Start by figuring out how much power your system actually needs, including the CPU, GPU, memory, storage, and any other components. We highly recommend using Seasonic’s online power calculator for a more accurate estimate. It even adds an extra 20–30% buffer to ensure your PC runs smoothly under load. No need to calculate all by yourself. 

Efficiency. Go for models with 80 PLUS® Platinum or Titanium certification. Basically, the higher the rating, the less energy is lost as heat. Also, keep in mind that PSUs are most efficient when running at 50–80% of their total capacity, so it’s a good idea to choose one with some headroom.

Other practical things. Look for fully modular power supplies, because they make cable management much easier in tight spaces. And don’t forget to double-check the physical size: standard SFX units are usually 125 × 63.5 × 100 mm. And finally, make sure it fits your case, and that the PSU’s ventilation lines up with the airflow design of your setup for optimal cooling.

 

Which brands offer the most reliable SFX PSUs in 2025?

Seasonic offers SFX solutions with premium quality and highly efficient features that support the smooth operation of your PC. Two key options here are FOCUS SPX PSUs and FOCUS SGX with SFX-L form factor. Both were presented with 750 W and 650 W power, have 80 PLUS® Platinum certification, and a 10-year warranty from Seasonic. But they have slightly different characteristics. 

Seasonic FOCUS SGX Series is its SFX-L power supplies. They have the longest form than standard SFX PSUs, work quieter while giving more power to your PC. 

Seasonic FOCUS SPX Series are pure SFX power supply units (shorter). They are suitable even for the smallest cases where SGX will not fit.

 

What are the key differences between SFX, SFX-L, and ATX PSUs?

ATX PSUs are a standard form factor for power supplies which used in most medium and large cases. Their size is 150  mm × 86 mm × 140 mm. These power supplies have ample space for cooling, larger fans, high power (up to 1200 W and above), a large number of connectors, and, in general, offer quiet PC operation. 

SFX PSUs are a compact form factor measuring, with dimensions 125 mm × 63.5 mm × 100 mm. They were designed for small cases, such as mini-ITX. Thanks to their limited size, SFX units have smaller fans (usually 80 mm), which can lead to higher noise levels under load. The power level usually reaches 600 – 700 W, although some models offer up to 750 W today. They are a go-to for those who want to build a compact but powerful PC.

SFX-L PSUs are an extended version of SFX. The standard size is 125 mm × 63.5 mm × 130 mm. With the extra depth, you can install a bigger fan (120 mm), which improves cooling. They often have higher power ratings (up to 800 W) and 80 PLUS® Gold or Platinum certification. They’re good for builds in compact cases that give you a little more room. SFX-L doesn’t support all cases, so make sure yours does before buying.

Do you need a fully modular SFX power supply for a clean build?

Definitely yes. Especially for small cases, like SFF and mini-ITX. A fully modular SFX power supply lets you connect only the cables you need, which creates less clutter.

Having this kind of power supply also makes upgrades and maintenance easier since you can replace a single cable if it breaks. Yes, it’s pretty cashier than non-modular models, but you are paying for convenience, high performance, and complete freedom when it comes to connecting PC components. 

What cooling and noise levels should you expect from top SFX models?

The Seasonic Focus SPX-750 is one of the top SFX power supplies, combining high power, reliability, and a modern cooling system. This PSU is equipped with a 92 mm fan with Silent Hybrid Fan Control. It means that up to a certain temperature, the fan doesn’t turn on at all, and it runs completely silently. The fan turns on gradually as the temperature rises, so there is less noise.

At low and medium loads (up to 30-40% power), the noise level is only 19-20 dB, which is practically inaudible. The noise increases to 31-36 dB at 40-50% load, which is like a system fan running quietly. However, at high loads (70–100%), the noise can reach 40–53 dB. 

A well-designed cooling system and high-quality components prevent overheating. The fan in the SPX-750 can be used in both hybrid and constant modes, depending on your preferences. The power supply is popular with users, especially for assemblies in compact cases. 

Are SFX power supplies compatible with high-end GPUs and CPUs?

Yes, modern SFX / SFX-L power supplies can power top-of-the-line processors and graphics cards. Even RTX 4090 and Ryzen 9 or Core i9. But only if you have an SFX with enough power (≥ 850 W, preferably 1000 W+ for reserve). We also recommend making sure you have the right cables for your PC or are compatible with 12VHPWR. 

Compactness does not mean limitations. With the right approach, SFX power supplies can easily handle the high-speed components of your PC.

Which are the top 5 SFX PSUs for performance, silence, and compact design in 2025?

Here they are:

Seasonic Focus SPX-750 (80 PLUS® Platinum)

Seasonic is a reliable brand synonymous with quality for power supplies and additional components for your PC. Offers a powerful and reliable power supply with a hybrid cooling mode. Silent at low loads. It’s got high-quality parts and a 10-year warranty. 

Corsair SF750 (80 PLUS® Platinum)

Extremely quiet and compact power supply. Has standard dimensions of 125 mm × 63.5 mm × 100 mm. Features high-quality cooling and is a perfect choice for most SFF builds.

Phanteks Revolt SFX 850W (80 PLUS® Platinum)

A premium choice with PCIe 5.0 support and Zero-RPM mode. Quiet, compact, and convenient. Supports modern GPUs.

Cooler Master V850 SFX (80 PLUS® Gold)

Good price/power ratio. Supports ATX 3.1, fully modular, compact.

SilverStone SX1000R (80 PLUS® Platinum)

One of the most powerful SFX on the market. Ideal for systems with RTX 4090. Works stably, but the noise is slightly higher under high load.

Conclusions

Today, the market offers a lot of options for computer PSUs in the SFX form factor. It’s up to you what to choose, but it’s better to evaluate all pros and cons before buying. Identify each PSU’s individual characteristics, then compare them with your case. This way, you make sure it fits perfectly and gives you the best performance.

NIKON RELEASES THE NIKKOR Z 28-135MM F/4 PZ VIDEO LENS

Nikon releases the first full-frame Z lens specifically designed for video. Built to support solo video shooters and small crews, the NIKKOR Z 28-135mm f/4 PZ lens resolves high-definition 8k video footage straight from the camera, and it’s light enough to shoot handheld. Engineered to be exceptional, it’s a game changer for video makers using full-frame Nikon Z cameras like the Z9 and the Z8.

With servo zoom control and a gimbal/handheld friendly weight of just 1210 g (including tripod collar) this is a compact, well-balanced, and dependable go-to video lens for videographers and film makers who want to work with minimal kit. The video-specific optical design resolves high-definition 8K video footage that allows plenty of flexibility to crop in post and output in 4K. Nikon’s high-performance glass and optical coatings ensure users can achieve remarkably clear footage at any distance—even if shooting under strong sunlight or studio lighting.

A yellow ring signifies this power zoom is a Z mount video lens and it is compatible with a wide range of professional video accessories, including matte boxes and follow focus systems. Key functions for video shooters include ease-in/ease-out (which negates the need for an external motorised zoom unit), and there are 11 different levels of zoom speed that can be assigned to the zoom lever on the lens. Position record and recall lets users re-frame shots between takes, linear manual focusing allows for accurate, repeatable results, and the direction of the focus and zoom rings can be reversed. The lens is also sealed against dust and moisture, and it can be controlled remotely too.

Dirk Jasper, Product Manager, Nikon Europe says: “We’re committed to making the Z system a go-to solution for content creators of all levels, and Nikon’s first pro video lens for Z mount cameras is an exciting step forward. You can rely on this video lens to deliver stunning results, which makes it a valuable tool in situations where time, budget, or circumstance mean reshoots aren’t an option.”

Summary of key features: NIKKOR Z 28-135mm f/4 PZ

Dedicated Z mount video lens: supports high-definition 8K footage that allows plenty of flexibility to crop in post and output in 4K. Yellow ring around the lens mount indicates that this is a video lens.

Smooth, balanced power zoom: internal motor smoothly manages the 28-135mm focal-length range and ensures a stable centre of gravity.

Video-specific optical design: minimises distortion at any shooting distance. Meso Amorphous Coat counters ghosting and flare, and focus breathing is suppressed.

Dynamic close ups: minimum focus distance of 0.34 m from 28mm to 50mm, and 0.57 m at 135mm.

Ease-in/ease-out: for natural tapering of zoom speed, no external zoom unit necessary.

Linear manual focusing: for accurate, repeatable focus adjustments.

Focus ring with 0.8 m gear pitch: compatible with standard follow focus units. The lens is also shaped so it’s easy to attach a matte box.

Position record and recall: available when shooting remotely or in ‘normal’ mode.

11 zoom speeds: can be assigned to the zoom lever or the camera’s Fn buttons.

Customisable zoom ring: angle and direction of rotation can be adjusted via the camera menu.

Smooth handling: zoom lever for precise fingertip control and L-fn buttons on side and top of lens.

Hi-Res Zoom: extends the zoom range by 2x when shooting in 4K, resolution and depth of field are maintained. Synchro mode combines the operation of power zoom and Hi-Res Zoom.

Fast, quiet autofocus: driven by Nikon’s (STM) stepping motor.

Remote zooming: via a PC with NX Tether installed, or a smart device running SnapBridge or NX Field.

Lightweight: handheld, gimbal, and tripod-friendly weight of just 1210 g (including tripod collar).

Location ready: high-performance dust- and drip-resistance sealing. Nikon’s fluorine coat protects the front element and keeps it easy to clean.

Rectangular lens hood (included): with a filter window for adjusting 95 mm filters while the hood is attached.

More Nikon News

Vodafone awards four small Irish businesses display advertising at the Aviva Stadium for the Autumn International Series games

Vodafone Business has announced the winners of its ‘Your Business Can’ competition. These four small Irish businesses, SOS Cookies from Limerick, The Farmhouse.ie from Longford, and Dublin-based JANDO and Lotts & Co. have been awarded an unparalleled opportunity to advertise their brands at the iconic Aviva Stadium during the Autumn International Series. With over 50,000 fans attending events and broadcasts reaching both local and international audiences on channels like RTE and TNT Sports, this prize offers these small businesses a significant leap in global visibility.

The competition, now in its fourth year, is worth over €25,000 in media value per winner. JANDO’s brand will light up the Ireland vs. New Zealand on 8th November, while Lotts & Co. will shine during the clash with Argentina the following week. The Farmhouse.ie will feature as Ireland take on Fiji and SOS Cookies will close out the series at the Australia game on 30th November.

The prize will see JANDO, Lotts & Co., The Farmhouse.ie and SOS Cookies branding flash up on perimeter advertising boards which line the pitch throughout each game. Studio time for each winner to design their creative advert was included in the prize. Adding a personal touch, JANDO, who have built their business on their creative flair, took the opportunity to design their own unique in-stadium branding.

JANDO, based in Dublin 1, founded by Wicklow couple Julie and Owen, is known for its striking and vibrant, architectural landmark-themed art prints which are sold online and in their studio.

Lotts & Co. is owned by John Byrne, brothers Barry and Paul McNerney and run by Managing Director Rory English. From their three locations in Dublin—Clontarf, Terenure, and Beggars Bush—they offer a range of high-quality, chef-prepared meals, fresh produce, and gourmet groceries, both in-store and online. In addition, they provide catering services and gifting hampers.

Family run, The Farmhouse.ie is based in Abbeyshrule Co.Longford and is run by Pat and Fiona McCormack, with the help of their two children. The Farmhouse.ie produce honey and pure beeswax candles from their farm which is home to over 1 million native bees in the summer. They specialise in locally sourced produce which they sell both online and in store.

SOS Cookies, founded by Sarah O’Sullivan from Ballysheed in Limerick, started as a passion project over the pandemic and is now on track to produce over 700,000 cookies to meet the demand of online customers and its three stores nationwide including its primary location in the Milk Market, Limerick and pop up stores in Dundrum Shopping Centre and Arnott’s in Dublin.

Vodafone Ireland has been the main sponsor of the Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU) since 2016. As part of this sponsorship, Vodafone shares a number of exclusive benefits with its customers, allowing them to feel part of the #TeamOfUs.This competition along with practical supports like V-Hub, a free digital support service offering tailored advice to help businesses navigate their digital transformation journey, are just some of the ways Vodafone is supporting small businesses just like JANDO, Lotts & Co, The Farmhouse.ie and SOS Cookies.

Julie McLoughlin, Cofounder at JANDO said: ‘’Winning this prize is a dream come true. The exposure it provides our brand is priceless, and the chance to create our own artwork for the stadium is truly incredible. We cannot wait to see it on match day.’’

Rory English, Managing Director of Lotts & Co said: “Having our brand showcased in the Aviva Stadium, close to our stores, is a huge milestone. This exposure will boost our visibility and customer engagement, especially as we gear up for the busy Christmas season.”

Pat McCormack, Cofounder at The Farmhouse.ie said: ‘’Winning this competition means a lot to our family business. Seeing our brand featured in the stadium is a wonderful opportunity, and we’re really excited to see our advertising on match day.’’

Sarah O’Sullivan, Founder & CEO of SOS Cookies said: ‘’As a Limerick founded business that has seen rapid expansion online and through pop up stores in Dublin, it is fantastic to get this brand visibility on an international stage.’’

Amanda Nelson, CEO at Vodafone Ireland said: ‘’We are really proud to champion and support businesses just like JANDO, Lotts & Co., The Farmhouse.ie and SOS Cookies as we know they play a crucial role in driving economic growth and creating employment all over Ireland. They have all embraced the benefits of digital transformation, meaning they can truly benefit from the global exposure this prize offers. It is fantastic to share the benefits of our sponsorship with passionate businesses like Julie, Owen, John, Barry , Paul,  Rory, Pat, Fiona and Sarah.’’

LeanBPI launches digital fitness check for small business

LeanBPI, the Irish digital growth consultancy for SMEs and microenterprises, today announces the launch of its Digital Readiness Assessment – a personal digital readiness assessment for microenterprise leaders in Ireland. By providing this measurement, LeanBPI will help microenterprises to understand their current capabilities and guide them in adopting appropriate digital technologies.

This will enhance the competitiveness of Ireland’s microenterprises, help ensure their survival in the digital age and open up new revenue streams. In doing so, it provides a vital service to the country’s economy, which is highly reliant on microenterprises.

LeanBPI is partnering with a number of Local Enterprise Offices (LEOs) on the rollout of the Digital Readiness Assessment, including those in Tipperary, Offaly, Mayo, Longford, Leitrim and Cavan, with promising take-up across other counties.

Collectively, microenterprises employ 28% of the workforce and contribute 16% to Ireland’s Gross Value Added (GVA). However, due to their size, microenterprises often lack the in-house skills and budgets required for digital transformation.

Minister for Business, Employment and Retail, Ms Emer Higgins, T.D., said, “I’m delighted to welcome LeanBPI’s new digital fitness test. As a Limerick-based digital growth consultancy, working with our Local Enterprise Offices, they play a crucial role in assessing the digital readiness of microenterprises across Ireland. Given that small businesses employing up to nine people make up more than 90% of our business sector, their growth is essential for the Irish economy.

“It’s encouraging to see real-world impact already, such as the experience by the Tipperary-based Crossogue Preserves through digital transformation. Initiatives like this are vital for helping small businesses capitalise on technological opportunities, digitise and modernise effectively. These companies are the heart of our communities, and their success is vital to our economy.”

John O’Shanahan, managing director, LeanBPI said: “Microenterprises make up far more of our national workforce and contribute far more to our economy than people are aware of, but many of them are not realising their full potential due to a lack of digital systems. By helping small businesses to make the most of the opportunities presented by technology, we are modernising microenterprises across Ireland and helping them – and our economy – to flourish.”

The Limerick-based company is working with LEOs across the country and conducting digital readiness assessments, which provide a clear evaluation of the digital readiness of decision-makers in microenterprises. LeanBPI’s appraisal determines a readiness level ranging from high to low, while also assessing a number of key factors – such as optimism, innovation, discomfort and insecurity – relating to businesses’ approach to digital, change and growth. This allows LeanBPI to also provide microenterprises with their digital readiness profile, ranging from ‘Explorer’ to ‘Avoider’. This tailored analysis enables appropriate, actionable plans which will guide microenterprises in effectively integrating digital tools and strategies into their operations.

LeanBPI has been helping microenterprises and SMEs in Ireland to implement digital systems for more than a decade and has a technical team capable of deep customisation to meet the needs of its customers.

Crossogue Preserves

Tipperary-based Crossogue Preserves sells a comprehensive range of more than 250 products from its shop and website, while also providing a wholesale service to hoteliers, as well as a large number of artisan shops and delicatessens. Veronica Molloy founded the nine-person family business and runs it alongside her son, Mark, and his wife, Jennifer. Last year, the company was struggling with an overload of paperwork, manual stocktaking and waste management. To address this issue, Crossogue began working with LeanBPI through its LEO last year and has seen significant benefits since improving its digital capabilities.

The comprehensive digital inventory management system created by LeanBPI, which gives Crossogue’s team oversight on the expiration dates and stock levels of all of its products, has allowed the company to streamline production and online sales, while also vastly reducing waste.  An annual stocktake, which previously took two of its nine staff two weeks to complete every January, has now been rendered redundant. The system instead enables continuous monitoring and assessment throughout the year. The digital transformation has also allowed for future planning, with Crossogue targeting more direct sales through its online business, facilitated by LeanBPI’s digital solution.

Veronica Molloy, owner and founder, Crossogue Preserves, said: “The difference between before and after we started working with John and the team in LeanBPI is night and day. The amount of stocktaking, paperwork, and waste management that was being done by hand was immense and very labour-intensive. With over 250 products, some of which are on a two-year production cycle, having systems to simplify this and help our staff make the most of their time has been invaluable.”

Small Business Financing: Essential Funding Tips

Starting or expanding a business requires funding. While many entrepreneurs use their savings, there often comes a time when external funding is essential to take things to the next level. Small business loans can be the solution, offering the financial boost businesses need. Here are some essential tips to understand and navigate the world of small business financing effectively.

Understanding Different Types of Small Business Loans

There isn’t a one-size-fits-all when it comes to small business loans. Different businesses have different needs, and luckily, several types of loans are available.

Term Loans: These are traditional loans you pay back over a set period with interest. They are ideal for businesses with a clear plan of what they need and how to use the funds.

Lines of Credit: Similar to a credit card, a line of credit gives businesses flexibility. You can draw money up to a limit and pay interest only on the amount you use. It’s great for managing cash flow or unexpected expenses.

SBA Loans: Backed by the Small Business Administration, these loans offer favorable terms but have more strict requirements and a longer approval process.

Equipment Loans: Specific to purchasing equipment, the equipment itself is collateral for the loan. It’s ideal for industries where high-priced machinery is a must.

Invoice Financing: This option allows businesses to get an advance on outstanding invoices. Lenders give money based on the value of unpaid invoices and then collect directly from clients.

Creating a Strong Business Plan

A robust business plan doesn’t just guide your business operations but is also essential when applying for a loan. Lenders want to know why you need the money and how you plan to use it. Ensure your business plan has clear objectives, market analysis, sales and marketing strategies, and financial projections. This document should tell your business story, showcasing why you’re a good bet for lenders.

Keeping an Eye on Your Credit Score

Your credit score is a critical factor for lenders. A good credit score increases your chances of getting a loan and securing it at a favorable interest rate. Regularly check your score and take steps to improve it, such as paying bills on time, not maxing out credit cards, and rectifying any errors in your credit report.

Considering Alternative Financing Options

Lantern by SoFi states, “You can generally find small business loans at banks, credit unions, online small business lenders, and peer-to-peer (P2P) networks.”

Besides traditional loans, several alternative financing options might be more suitable for some businesses. Some non-traditional financing sources are crowdfunding platforms, angel investors, or venture capitalists. While these might not be the right fit for every business, it’s worth considering all available avenues.

Understanding Terms and Conditions

Before signing any agreement, it’s crucial to understand the loan’s terms and conditions fully. Look beyond just the interest rate. Understand fees, repayment terms, and any penalties for early repayment. Ensure you’re comfortable with all terms; when in doubt, it might be beneficial to consult with a financial advisor.

Navigating the world of small business financing can seem daunting, but it becomes manageable with the right information and approach. By understanding the different types of loans, ensuring a strong business plan and credit score, considering all funding options, and being aware of all terms, small business owners can secure the funds they need to grow and thrive. Remember, the key is to be informed and make choices that align with your business’s long-term vision and goals.