We are now accepting applications from recent graduates interested in starting a business with IGNITE, the programme begins October 2024.
IGNITE is a start-up incubation programme for founders working on their start-up idea. The programme is open to recent graduates in any discipline from any 3rd level institution in Ireland. It includes essential workshops and seminars, entrepreneur guest speakers, mentoring with experienced entrepreneurs and business owners, funding and workspace offered on a flexible basis so you get the skills and knowledge, advice and guidance you need when you need it. And we don’t take equity in your start-up.
Closing date for applications is Monday 26 August
Interviews for those shortlisted: Monday 2 Sept
Programme Start Date: Monday 7 October
The application requires:
your contact details, address and mobile number, and 3rd level qualifications
short written description of the product idea, the market opportunity and your business goals (150 words or less for each)
a 60 sec video to tell us how you'll benefit from your participation on IGNITE (upload a video file)
your Curriculum Vitae (CV)
the details of at least one person who is familiar with your work
and tell us where you heard about IGNITE
We hosted a "Discover how IGNITE can help you start your business" webinar, we spoke about the programme supports, the application process and heard from two past participants, you can watch the replay HERE. (Please note the current application deadline is 26 August)
Click here if you are interested to hear from past participants on how IGNITE has helped them on their entrepreneurial journey.
Eligibility
Who can apply?
IGNITE is open to recent graduates with an Ordinary Bachelor Degree, Honours Bachelor Degree, Masters Degree, Doctoral Degree, Higher Diploma or Post-Doctoral Diploma (NFQ Level 7, 8, 9 or 10 qualification) in any discipline from any 3rd level institution. It is expected that most applicants will graduate in the year in which they begin the programme. In certain cases, applicants may have graduated in the immediately previous 2-3 years and either a) continued in postdoctoral research, b) started developing the business on a full-time or part-time basis or c) engaged in relevant work experience.
If you would like to find out more about the IGNITE programme and how we can help you launch your start-up, please email jendoran@ucc.ie to arrange a one to one meeting. Please include a broad outline of your business idea with your email.