Ryan Academy launches virtual incubator for social enterprises
- Monday 14 December 2009

DCU Ryan Academy of Entrepreneurship will give support to new social enterprises, community and voluntary groups.

The Ryan Academy for Entrepreneurship, the DCU facility based in Citywest, has launched a new concept in support for the social enterprise sector.

“The DCU Ryan Academy is committed to helping entrepreneurs of all types and while there is a lot of support in Ireland for commercial entrepreneurs, there is not as much support for those involved in the social enterprise and non-profit sector” said Ann Horan, CEO of the Ryan Academy. “The Social Enterprise Virtual Incubator is an attempt to fill this gap.”

The Virtual Incubator will provide a number of services to non-profit and more-than-profit entrepreneurs and early stage organisations in the social sector:

• Support in preparing for grant applications
• Support in ideas development
• Support for Business Plan development
• Helpful advice and networking opportunities
• Support to develop Board of Directors or Advisory Boards
• Guest Speakers from those involved in social enterprises
• Annual social enterprise seminar
• Free service

The Virtual Incubator is ideal for individuals or groups who are interested in setting up a social enterprise or who are planning to seek funding support from organisations or the State.

-ENDS-

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About the Ryan Academy for Entrepreneurship

DCU Ryan Academy is a partnership between Dublin City University and the family of the late Tony Ryan (Ryanair). The Academy exists to promote entrepreneurship and innovation and to use our iconic building in Citywest as a dynamic hub for entrepreneurs and researchers to develop ideas, learn new skills and network. There is widespread agreement in business, political and academic circles that the key to Ireland’s recovery and future is the development and exploitation of our best and brightest people who have developed world class ideas to fuel world class competition. The Ryan Academy is working with researchers and entrepreneurs to help them achieve their potential.