A software solution for visitor attractions, a wine with a distinctly Irish flavour, a company that grows Cannabis Sativa and a company aimed at providing professional development to teachers were the big winners at the 2019 LIT New Frontiers Start-up Awards.

A total of 14 new business leaders from the acclaimed New Frontiers programme showcased their start-up companies at a ceremony in the Millennium Theatre at LIT, Moylish Campus on Wednesday, May 15, 2019.

New Frontiers is the national entrepreneur development programme funded by Enterprise Ireland and delivered by LIT at the Hartnett Enterprise Acceleration Centre. The programme focuses on developing core entrepreneur and leadership skills and opening up networks for promising entrepreneurs who have ideas with international potential. Popular among entrepreneurs who have an innovative business idea and plan to establish a company in Ireland, the New Frontiers programme is already accepting applications for Phase 2 of its next Entrepreneur Development Programme. To prepare for this a Phase 1 Bootcamp programme will take place in July, the closing date for applications is noon on Monday, July 8, 2019.

Vice President for Research Development and Innovation LIT Dr Liam Brown described New Frontiers as a truly national programme with a significant regional outreach.

“LIT is delighted to be the lead partner in this region but we cannot do it alone – it takes a community. We had more than 70 people supporting the participants for this year's New Frontiers Phase 2. Mentors, guest speakers, guest facilitators, workshop hosts, advisors, members of the professional service organisations in Limerick and beyond and more.”

Speaking about the benefits to the entrepreneur Dr Brown said, “The results from this elite programme for startups is rewarding, and is recognised as a huge driver of success by many of the prosperous indigenous companies in the Mid West. It provides help and support to accelerate business development and equips participants with the skills and contacts required to successfully start and grow their company. “Previous New Frontier participants have told us time and time again, that is accepted and then completing the New Frontier Programme is like wearing a badge of quality in the business world. It means you have been recognised as a viable business, you have the skill set to succeed, and there is a willingness for other businesses to meet and negotiate with you after the successful completion of the New Frontiers programme,” said Dr Brown.

According to Paula Carroll, Enterprise Ireland New Frontiers Programme Manager

"New Frontiers is a critically important programme within Enterprise Ireland's offering. It is the national entrepreneurial development programme and helps start-ups on their journey, with expertise and funding. I am very impressed with the 2019 LIT cohort, which is a particularly strong group and I wish them well on the further development of their companies"

The New Frontiers’ end of year ceremony further recognises the entrepreneurship and innovation through awards for Startup of the Year, Finalists of the Year and Showcase Winner.