New Frontiers is the national programme designed to develop entrepreneurs. It is delivered on behalf of Enterprise Ireland by Institutes of Technology and Universities across Ireland. 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 regional locations.

New Frontiers is designed for individuals who:

• Have an innovative business idea with export and employment potential
• Can show evidence of a commercial market for their proposed product/service
• Are ambitious, growth-orientated and committed to engaging fully in all aspects of the programme

How Does New Frontiers Benefit Entrepreneurs?

• It offers regional access to applicants across 14 programmes and 16 locations.
• Open to business ideas from across all sectors including food & consumer products; information & communication technology; engineering & electronics; medical devices; biotechnology; pharma, digital media; cleantech/renewable energy; and eligible internationally-traded services
• Support package valued at €30,000 including €15,000 tax-free stipend in Phase 2, subject to satisfactory performance – no equity is taken in your business
• Further support available in Phase 3 to the value of €10,000+
• Personalised one-to-one mentoring offered by seasoned business mentors from the Enterprise Ireland Mentor network.
• Expert advice and guidance from an experienced programme team, business practitioners, investors and other entrepreneurs within the Institutes of Technology and Universities.
• Access to R&D facilities and specialist expertise from within the Institutes of Technology/Universities, including access to interns and graduates.
• Practitioner-led workshops in all areas of building a business.
• Regular milestone review meetings to monitor your progress.
• Free co-working space (during Phase 2 and 3).
• Support and guidance in the development of a strong business plan.

Find out more