Early stage startups in Galway who think they have something to offer the global stage are being urged to apply for the new Competitive Start Fund.
Minister Damien English announced the launch of the €1 million Enterprise Ireland Competitive Start Fund yesterday
Galway Senator Aisling Dolan said that this fund is aimed at businesses with the “potential and ambition” to succeed on the global market, which “could well be” a startup business in Galway.
Up to 20 successful applicants to the fund will each receive a €50,000 investment, along with mentoring opportunities from the Enterprise Ireland team.
“You would also receive assistance with evaluating overseas market opportunities, building prototypes, developing market entry plans, and securing third party investment,” Aisling Dolan said.
The fund, which is now open for applications, is open to startups from any sector with an eligible innovative product or service set for global markets.
Minister English said that the fund would provide a “critical boost” to entrepreneurs and companies in Ireland at the outset of their journey.
“As the country moves towards a post pandemic jobs-led national economic recovery, targeted initiatives such as the Competitive Start Fund will help to build the businesses of tomorrow and propel their future prosperity.”
He added that he would “encourage companies to make the most of the opportunity to realise their global aspirations and turn their ideas into an international commercial reality.”
A number of CSF application-support workshops will be held online by the national Business Innovation Centres (BICs) over the coming weeks.
The closing date for applications to the fund is May 25. Application forms and more details can be found at www.enterprise-ireland.com/csfallsectors.
Manager of Enterprise Ireland’s High Potential Start-Up Division, Jenny Melia said that they are committed to helping Irish innovators with what they need to scale up internationally.
“We’re very excited to see what the next generation of innovative Irish businesses will achieve, and we look forward to working alongside the successful applicants to help them grow further.”
