DCU calls on Ireland’s most promising female entrepreneurs

Applications have opened for Dublin City University’s prestigious Female High Fliers accelerator. Run by the DCU Ryan Academy for Entrepreneurs, the 13-week programme supports Ireland’s most promising female-led start-ups.

The tailored programme is supported by Enterprise Ireland and attracts on average 130 high calibre female entrepreneurs every year who are looking to develop leadership skills, fast track their business and ultimately achieve scale.

Successful Female High Flier graduates to date include: Ciara Garvan, founder, WorkJuggle (2017); Pamela Newenham, co-founder, GirlCrew (2016); Mary O’Brien, co-founder, Video Doc (2016); and Ciara Donlon, founder and CEO, Theya Healthcare (2015).

This year, ten selected participants will gain access to a peer startup founder network and to the DCU Ryan Academy network of experienced entrepreneurs and investors. They will take part in weekly practical workshops delivered by a team that understands the particular needs and challenges facing their individual businesses. They will be challenged on their business plans and given an opportunity to pitch to potential investors with the aim of attracting potential funding, future customers and possible partnerships.

Encouraging female founders to get in touch, Niamh Collins, Programme Director & DCU Ryan Academy COO, said;

“Having designed and delivered this programme for the past four years, we understand the specific challenges facing female-led startups in Ireland today and recognise the frequently under-supported opportunity they present. We have a proven track record in supporting these businesses achieve their objectives and deliver tangible results.

Furthermore, we have managed to create an alumni network so that each participant will have an opportunity to create powerful and long lasting relationships with like-minded people, with whom they can share valuable lessons along their start-up journey.”

The application process is open to female founders or co-founders of Irish innovative startups less than five years old. All companies must be female-led and participants will be selected based on their growth and export potential as well as business idea and team strength.

The closing date for applications is Tuesday 23 January 2018. For further information visit http://ryanacademy.ie/portfolio/female-high-fliers/