September is always the month that everything & everybody swings back in to action after the summer break. The same goes for start-up programs. Applications for a number of these have opened. We will list them below and update the list as we find out about more.

• DCU Ryan academy / Propeller Accelerator: The Propeller Venture Accelerator was established in 2010 with the funding of €1 million from Irelandia Investments. The aim is to accelerate early stage technology startup companies, both Irish and international, in Dublin. The Propeller Accelerator has taken the successful US accelerator model and adapted it to the Irish context. In early 2011 the Propeller Accelerator became a charter member of the Techstars Network, only one of five outside of the US and only one of three in Europe. The Propeller Venture Accelerator has an emphasis on software, Web 2.0, applications, informatics and cleantech startups. The accelerator programme is a mentor-led, three months incubation with free space and services and an additional €30,000 cash investment in each company.  This is in return for 6.5% equity stake. Applications are now open and run until November 2nd 2011. More details here & here.

• Enterprise Ireland Innovation Vouchers: The Innovation Voucher initiative was developed to build links between Ireland’s public knowledge providers (i.e. higher education institutes, public research bodies) and small businesses.  Innovation Vouchers worth €5,000 are available to assist a company or companies to explore a business opportunity or problem with a registered knowledge provider.  The Innovation Vouchers initiative is open to all small (limited registered) companies (less than 50 employees) in Ireland. Your voucher will also be accepted by registered knowledge providers in Northern Ireland as part of Enterprise Ireland’s arrangement with Invest Northern Ireland. The application period runs from September 1st until September 30th 2011. More details here.
• Intertrade, All Ireland Seedcorn Competition:

  Seedcorn is the largest business competition for early stage / high growth companies in any sector on any part of the island. The competition, aimed at companies who have a new equity funding requirement, has a prize fund of €280,000 and offers you the opportunity to, develop your business idea, improve your business plan, make your concept investor ready, gain exposure to venture capitalists & other equity and  providers increase the profile of your business. The deadline for registration is September 16th 2011. More details can be found here.

Filed under: news, dcu ryan enterprise ireland, greenhouse, incubation, mentoring, support