Tech Start-Ups line out for New Frontiers Phase 2

Paschal McGuire, Director Entrepreneurship, Enterprise Ireland, Border Region (3rd from left) launched “New Frontiers” Phase 2 in Dundalk Institute of Technology this week. New Frontiers is a national programme funded and coordinated by Enterprise Ireland that provides a comprehensive suite of supports for high potential entrepreneurs operating in the technology sector.

After congratulating the thirteen successful applicants Mr McGuire said “the focus of the programme is to help the participants create sustainable businesses, jobs and economic stability in the (border) region. It is encouraging to see such high calibre people and business ideas gathered here from Cavan, Meath, Monaghan, Louth and Dublin North who are set to benefit from New Frontiers over the next 6 months”.

Dundalk Institute of Technology (DkIT), in collaboration with Dublin City University, is the first Institute to start Phase 2 of the programme. 13 start-ups were chosen after a lengthy selection process which began in February 2012 and over the next six months these participants will receive training and mentoring on a range of business issues. They also receive office space in either the Regional Development Centre in DkIT or Invent DCU and will have access to the research and know how of both colleges. Each will also receive financial support for the six month period while they bring their businesses to an investible proposition.

Speaking at the launch Maria Johnston, Operations Manager Invent DCU, commented “to get to this phase of the programme these entrepreneurs had to prove they had the desire, energy and belief in their business proposition as well as proving that there is significant market demand for their products or services. Having done so they now have the full range of supports both Institutions have to offer to move their business forward”.

Garrett Duffy, Programme Manager, DkIT said “The New Frontiers Programme builds on the collaborative success the Regional Development Centre, DkIT and Invent DCU has had providing supports for start-up and early stage businesses. Since May 2011 this collaboration has seen graduate companies receive offers of in excess of €2.5 million investment into their businesses”.

The New Frontier participants operate in a variety of technology sectors including energy, gaming, medical devices, e-commerce, telecommunications, social media and sport.