Competition offering €27k to boost early-stage start-ups

Four smart new business ideas can receive a timely kick-start following the launch by Ireland Funds of its annual Business Plan Competition 2021.

The competition is a leading third-level start-up competition on the island of Ireland with participation from 39 universities, colleges, research centres, and institutes of technology to date. Now in its tenth year, it seeks to nurture creativity and hone entrepreneurial skills among early-stage entrepreneurs, and is open for entries until 16 March, 2021.

The Ireland Funds’ mission is to harness the power of a global philanthropic network of friends of Ireland to promote and support peace, culture, education and community development across the island of Ireland and among Irish communities around the world.

University and third-level students and researchers, as well as recent graduates (2 years or less) across the island of Ireland, are invited to submit proposals that are at pre-investment stage.

The competition will include a special category for mental health innovation, in partnership with St Patrick’s Mental Health Services.

Ten applicants will be shortlisted and invited to participate in virtual pre-acceleration workshops with the winner receiving 1-1 mentoring from San Francisco-based tech-entrepreneur and Business Plan competition founder, Bill McKiernan, as well as securing a €15,000 cash prize. Second place will receive a €7,000 cash prize and third place will receive €2,000.

Apply online at https://ireland funds.org/