South East Technological University’ (SETU) Enterprise Ireland New Frontiers programme hosted a networking event to mark the ending of Phase 1 for its latest cohort of aspiring entrepreneurs.
Each of the participants have completed a six-week, part-time programme at SETU which assisted them in researching their business idea and evaluating the market potential for their concept.
A key part of the event was to invite the Phase 1 programme participants to the Carlow campus to pitch to their peers, giving them an opportunity to share their experience, advice, insights, and ideas. Participants can now apply to Phase 2 of New Frontiers. This is a full-time, six-month intensive commitment to help validate the commercial aspects of the start-up in addition to guiding the founders in developing their entrepreneurial capacity. Phase 2 provides a support package worth over €30,000, including a €15,000 tax-free allowance.
Gemma Purcell, New Frontiers Programme Manager at SETU’s campus in Carlow addressed the event. She said, “In-person networking events are invaluable for entrepreneurs on Phase 1 of New Frontiers. They offer a unique opportunity for building relationships, networking, and problem-solving, helping to strengthen the entrepreneurial community in the south east region.”
Event attendees heard from Alex Kelly, past New Frontiers participant and Founder of the Flower child brand. Flower Child specialises in natural alternatives to everyday home fragrance products. Alex spoke to new participants about her entrepreneurial journey to date and the enormous support she received via the New Frontiers programme. She emphasised the value of networking events and workshops in providing opportunity to build connections and form relationships with other like-minded entrepreneurs. The event was topped off with a campus tour delivered by Brian Ogilvie, Head of Research and Commercialisation Support at SETU’s Kilkenny Road campus in Carlow.
New Frontiers is the national entrepreneurial development programme funded by Enterprise Ireland for ambitious individuals with innovative business ideas which have the potential to scale and provide employment. This programme provides customised support and expertise and is delivered at different stages throughout the year by SETU at its campuses in Carlow and Waterford. The university has a strong track record of successfully providing a business incubation environment that supports entrepreneurial development and company growth.
Phase 2 of New Frontiers is currently open for applications. For more information, contact Gemma Purcell, New Frontiers Programme Manager on [email protected] or apply at newfrontiers.ie/register
Banner Photo caption: Gemma Purcell, New Frontiers Programme Manager; Brian Ogilvie, Head of Research and Commercialisation Support; and Lorraine Brennan, New Frontiers Administrator, all from SETU's campus in Carlow are pictured with the latest participants of Phase 1 of the New Frontiers programme at the University's campus in Carlow.