€22,500 grant opportunity for Mayo entrepreneurs

New Frontiers is Ireland’s national entrepreneur development programme, delivered locally by Atlantic Technological University Galway-Mayo Innovation Hubs and funded by Enterprise Ireland.

If you have an innovative business idea with a plan to establish your own company, or you are already at an early stage of development, the New Frontiers Programme can provide you with funding, help and support to accelerate your business development.

How does the Programme benefit entrepreneurs?

1. Expertise in all areas of business including investment, market research and validation, business model, patenting, product development, sales and marketing.

2. Mentoring from experienced business advisers and practitioners.

3.Free office space and other business incubation facilities.

4. €22,500 tax free funding, €15,000 in the second phase and €7,500 in the third phase of the programme.

5. Networking opportunities with other entrepreneurs and business development agencies.

6. Introductions to seed and early-stage capital investment networks.

7. Access to entrepreneurship best practice – both national and international.

8. Peer group learning from participants in this region and across the country.

9. Access to the expertise in Enterprise Ireland through the Market Research Centre.

10. Expertise from Atlantic Technological University and the supportive environment of the Innovation Hubs in Galway and Mayo.

New Frontiers is delivered in three phases.

The first phase explores and tests the business potential of your business idea. It is the shortest phase (6/8 weeks) and will be conducted on a part-time basis. It will focus on the promoter, product/service, market opportunity, business model and feasibility.

The second phase is much more intensive. Those accepted onto this phase must commit on a full-time basis for six months. Office space will be offered for FREE in the ATU Innovation Hubs.

A sum of €15,000 funding will be available to all eligible participants.

The third phase is built around the business success and growth, getting to the market, exporting, generating employment and attracting investment. This will be full-time over three months with a further €7,500 for selected participants.

David McIntyre, founder of www.cubbie.ie, said: “Cubbie started with me wanting to help my two autistic daughters so I joined New Frontiers to help me create my company. It’s now helping thousands of autistic, neurodivergent and anxious students have a better day at school. We have ambitions to help all autistic, neurodivergent and stressed people have access to a Cubbie wherever they are.”

Maria Staunton, ATU iHub manager, encourages people with start up ideas to submit an application and take part in phase one of New Frontiers. "This will enable you to assess whether you have a good idea and something that can develop into a business. Over the last 10 years we have had lots of successful start ups in Mayo take part in New Frontiers."

The 2023 programme is now open to new applicants. Apply early as places are limited. First preference places will be offered to those who submit their applications by Friday, May 12.

The programme will commence shortly afterwards.