Press releases 2001 - Calling all graduates - DCU launches new entrepreneurs network
press releases 2001
calling all graduates - dcu launches new entrepreneurs network
DCU graduates who are about to set up a business and want to know more are invited to the first evening talk to be held by the Entrepreneurs' Network. The talk takes place in the business and innovation centre known as 'invent' which was opened last week by An Tanaiste, Mary Harney td.
According to Pauline Logan, DCU's Enterprise Officer, "It is essential to understand that entrepreneurs are as likely to be scientists and engineers as they are to be business graduates. What is important is the entrepreneurial spirit; the drive to follow a business idea through to its conclusion - the successful enterprise".
Liavan Mallin, a serial entrepreneur and CEO of onemade.com will launch the series with a talk on "Routes to starting a new business: going it alone or getting venture funding up front". Liavan graduated from Computer Applications in 1985 and has been involved in several companies including Celtic Hampers, which became the largest mail order company in Ireland, employing over 8,500 agents nationwide.
As a member of the Entrepreneurs' Network, Liavan is a firm believer in the importance of networking with other graduates. "It is essential to share knowledge and experiences with each other. Any graduate who has set up a company is aware of the pitfalls of going it alone; who better to offer advice and guidance than someone who has successfully walked the path", she said.
It is particularly appropriate that this series of evening talks should be held in the 'invent' centre. This incubation centre is the ideal venue for budding entrepreneurs as it provides both practical support in the form of space and facilities, as well as access to business, financial and investment advice. "Entrepreneurs will have access to a purpose built environment where they will be surrounded by like-minds", said Des Byrne, chairman of 'invent'. "They will be part of an innovative community".
Graduates are invited to come along on Monday evening and to mark 12th November and 10th December in their diaries for follow-up talks on 'The funding environment for technology start-ups' and 'Preparing a business plan that will get you funding'.
The event will be folllowed by an informal drinks reception. The 'invent' centre can be accessed via the Collins Avenue entrance.
ENDS