New Frontiers
A supportive environment & programme for ambitious founders to develop innovative business ideas
New Frontiers
is the national programme designed to develop entrepreneurs, delivered on behalf of Enterprise Ireland by Institutes of Technology and Universities. Technological
Institute of the Shannon (TUS), Hartnett Enterprise Acceleration Centre primarily
deliver the programme
for founders predominantly in the
Limerick, Clare and Tipperary
region at the
Moylish Campus
.
The programme’s primary purpose is to accelerate the development of sustainable new businesses that have strong employment and growth potential and contribute to job creation and economic activity in the region.
Who Should Apply?
Founders who:
*Have an
innovative business idea in a
commercial market
with export and employment potential
* Have the
drive and ambition
to commit fully to all aspects of the programme while they build a successful startup
* Are
new to business
, have experience in a completely different industry, or haven't yet successfully built or scaled a business
* Want to leave full-time employment &
grow their own business
* Have
experience, expertise or other direct insight
s into the sector/ industry their business is in
* Are based in & intend to run your business, in the Republic of Ireland with correct visas in place.
* Are over 18 years old & meet the eligibility criteria
Apply to Phase 1
Why start with New Frontiers? Title Block 2
* New Frontiers is a programme with 3 phases taking you from early-stage idea to pre-seed fundraising readiness
* The programme provides a supportive environment with experienced facilitators, mentors and entrepreneurial like-minded peers
*
A generic programme that supports a wide range of sectors
* Introduces you to a vibrant startup community
of founders, business experts, mentors, Enterprise Ireland advisors, Local Enterprise Office advisors, accelerator programmes & array of other startup eco system supports
* Programme supports founders build knowledge and confidence
as they navigate the challenges ahead
*
Benefit from a free programme & support package valued at €40,000
as you develop your business (without giving away any equity)
Start with Phase 1
Your New Frontiers Journey
Phase 1: Test the Idea
A 5-week evening programme - April/May or compressed Bootcamp Programme - June
* Limited to 20 founders
* To explore & strengthen your business idea
* Do customer discovery & market research
* Understand Funding requirement
* Begin pitching your idea
* Familiarisation with startup supports
Our Recommendation:
Participate & prepare to compete for a place on the 6-month programme
More about Phase 1
Phase 2: Develop the Business
* A 6-month full-time programme
* Limited to 14 founders
* Training workshops with experience facilitators
* 1-1 Mentoring sessions
* Office Space
* Tax Free Education Stipend of €15,000 (t&c's apply)
* Networking Events
* Access to third level R&D facilities & expertise
*Opportunity to win TUS Startup of the Year & associated prizes
More about Phase 2Phase 3: Implement the Plan
Restriction:
Open to founders who completed the TUS Midwest New Frontiers phase 2 programme that year
* A 3-month full-time programme
* Limited to 2 Founders with stipend of €7500
* Strategic Mentor Panel Session
* Office Space
* Networking Events
The programme focuses on 1-1 supports as founders implement the plan to meet their next milestones
*
subject to change annually
More about Phase 3
Sectors Supported
The New Frontiers Programme is a generic programme that supports founders developing business ideas in a
range of sectors
including:
Information &
Communication
Technology
Engineering & Electronics
Cleantech / Renewable Energy
Eligible Internationally Traded Services
Factors that Exclude you from Programme
Business concepts
based on the following are
not eligible
for support:
* Retail outlets and professional services, including consultancies that are not engaged in internationally traded services.
* Areas of enterprise which involve displacement of existing jobs or businesses including builders, hairdressers, cafes, pubs, hotels, general printers, construction, trades, etc.
* Conferences & Seminars.
* Businesses which are contrary to public policy, i.e. goods/services for military use, adult entertainment services, tobacco and related ventures, cannabis-based products.
* Activities that fall within gambling or “gaming” as defined in the Gaming & Lotteries Act 1956.
FUNDING ELIGIBLITY
Previous Funding
may impact your eligibility to receive the tax-free education stipend - all applicants must disclose any funding either received or applied for. Refer any funding related queries to the Programme Manager.
Express Your Interest
Join the Next Cohort Title Block 2
If you are interested in participating in the next programme - we recommend:
* That you express your interest now & join our mailing list, you'll be first to hear when the call for applications opens
*
Join us at an Information Session - these will run in advance of all open calls for applications
* Book a 1-1 with the Programme Team to check both programme eligibility & funding eligibility
* Start your New Frontiers Journey with our Phase 1 Programme & strengthen your business proposition & be prepared to compete for your phase 2 place.
* Allow time to complete your application - outlining your business proposition clearly and its opportunity in the market place
* While you wait join us at our next Lunch and Learn Session or other events we host.
.
Apply to Phase 1
For more information
Expertise and Guidance from Programme Team and Entrepreneurial Community
