The Institute of Art, Design and Technology Dún Laoghaire (IADT) and NovaUCD welcomed the first entrepreneurs to its Enterprise Ireland backed New Frontiers programme this week. Enterprise Ireland has committed €1.6 million in funding over the next five years on a New Frontiers programme to support up to 265 entrepreneurs in the greater South Dublin area incorporating Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown and North Wicklow. 

The programme will see each participant receive financial support of €15,000 scholarship to cover full-time participation in the 6 month course, as they focus on moving their business from concept to market. IADT, in partnership with NovaUCD, will host the programme participants in the IADT Media Cube building and in NovaUCD. 

The launch of this Enterprise Ireland New Frontiers programme will commence with 13 participants selected as part of a competitive process from 56 applicants. They are working on early-stage business concepts ranging from fintech, medtech, digital media, innovation in healthcare and food products and software to help organisations embed diversity and inclusion. 

Speaking at the launch, Enterprise Ireland New Frontiers Lead, Orla Reynolds said, "Following many years of success with the New Frontiers programme, IADT is delighted to be the lead partner in this collaboration with NovaUCD. The New Frontiers team, mentors and facilitators are exceptional if you want to take the leap and focus on creating a successful business. The energy and camaraderie amongst your fellow participants fuels your drive as they understand the rollercoaster of entrepreneurship. I can’t wait to support our 13 participants on their journey."

TD for the Dún Laoghaire Constituency, Jennifer Carroll MacNeill added, "It is a privilege to launch the New Frontiers programme here at IADT today, delivering this critically important programme to Dún Laoghaire Rathdown. One of the striking elements of this intake is the diversity of sectors they are working on, from healthy eating to software to promoting diversity and inclusion. I wish all the participants the best of luck as they begin the programme." 

Reporting: Business World