DCU calls on Ambitious Female Entrepreneurs

The DCU Ryan Academy for Entrepreneurs is calling on female-led start-ups to apply for its prestigious Female High Fliers Accelerator Programme 2017.

Since its launch in 2014, over 40 female entrepreneurs have participated in the programme and have continued to achieve impressive results;

– 35 businesses have received investments totalling €7 million

– Businesses have continued to expand, creating 115 jobs

– 19 businesses are now exporting their products and/ or services

Supported by Enterprise Ireland, the 13-week accelerator programme aims to address challenges facing female entrepreneurs across all industries and support Ireland’s top early stage start-ups in fast tracking their business to achieve scale.

Ten selected participants will gain access to a peer start-up founder network and to the DCU Ryan Academy network of experienced entrepreneurs and investors. They will take part in weekly tailored workshops delivered by a team that understands the particular needs and challenges facing their individual business. They will also be challenged on their business plans and be given an opportunity to pitch to potential investors.

Niamh Collins, FHF Programme Director & DCU Ryan Academy COO, commented;

“The Female High Fliers programme has a proven track record in supporting businesses achieve objectives and deliver tangible results. We are extremely proud to have been part of this journey with some of Ireland’s leading female entrepreneurs and we look forward to working closely with those selected this year. I would encourage any female founder or co-founder of an innovative start-up that has international growth potential and ambition to get in touch.”

The application process is open to female founders or co-founders of Irish or international innovative start-ups 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, 21st March, 2017. For further information visit http://www.ryanacademy.ie/