NDRC is once again partnering with Enterprise Ireland and the Galway City Innovation District to run the second intensive regional accelerator programme for digital companies in Galway and the Western region.
There will be up to 10 places available for successful entrepreneurs in the Galway-based accelerator programme.
Entry will be through a competitive process designed to find and support those digital companies with the best potential for growth and expansion.
Each successful applicant will receive investment amounting to €50,000 – of which €30,000 is a cash investment into their company and €20,000 is in programme service costs.
This joint initiative between the NDRC, the investor in early stage digital and technology startup companies, GCID and Enterprise Ireland is a key part of Enterprise Ireland’s programme to grow the number and quality of startups nationally.
The new call was launched this week at the PorterShed and was supported by Galway West TD and Minister of State with responsibility for Digital Development, Sean Kyne.
The PorterShed, backed by AIB, is already a showcase for Galway’s vibrant tech startup scene, with working space housing 34 innovative companies and home to over 100 members, including hot desks for visiting entrepreneurs.
Sean Kyne TD said: “I’m delighted to see NDRC at PorterShed announce the call for young startups for its second programme. Encouraging digital entrepreneurship is a key element of Government’s digital policy.
“Our long term future as a successful and modern economy will depend on our capacity to scale up the Irish indigenous sector. Of course, every sector is digital now.
“I’m particularly pleased to see Enterprise Ireland, the Galway City Innovation District and NDRC sponsor this activity in Galway.
“Startups can develop anywhere and Government will seek to support them both locally and nationally.”
NDRC CEO, Ben Hurley said: “We are delighted to once again look to the West for more of Ireland’s entrepreneurial spirit, bringing our experience and expertise to a wonderful location in Galway.
“We are very pleased to be working with Enterprise Ireland, Galway City Innovation District, PorterShed and AIB to support the development of new digital enterprises.
“NDRC has a proven approach, working closely with early stage startups to bridge the gap between their initial formation and follow-on investment and we play an important and leading role in enhancing the startup ecosystem nationally, and in supporting the early stage development of startup companies.”
