The Ireland Funds Business Plan Competition, now in its seventh year, seeks to nurture creativity and hone entrepreneurial skills amongst Irish-based early-stage technology entrepreneurs. 

Participants will have the opportunity to develop their business ideas and compete for the opportunity to pitch for a place on one of NDRC’s investment programmes, cash prizes and other supports.

What is it?

The Ireland Funds has partnered with NDRC to help you bring your idea from concept to pitch. Applications will be accepted until noon on Wednesday, 25^th April 2018. Ten business ideas will then be selected to receive mentoring and support from NDRC through a series of workshops during May and June, with the opportunity to compete to pitch for a place on one of NDRC’s investment programmes, €16,000 in prize money and other supports.

The Ireland Funds 

The Ireland Funds is a global philanthropic network established in 1976 to promote and support peace, culture, education and community development throughout the island of Ireland, and Irish-related causes around the world. With chapters in 12 countries, The Ireland Funds has raised over $550 million for deserving causes in Ireland and beyond, benefitting more than 3,000 different organisations. 

First prize

The opportunity to pitch for a place on one of NDRC’s investment programmes along with  €10,000 cash prize. NDRC is Ireland’s most successful digital accelerator, specifically designed to enable entrepreneurial teams transform solid ideas into commercially viable startups.

Runner-up prizes 

€5,000 cash prize (first runner-up) 
€1,000 cash prize (second runner-up)

All finalists will receive detailed feedback on their business ideas and pitches from the NDRC Venture Investment Team and Judging Panel.

Timeline 

Thursday, 1^st March 2018
Applications open 
Apply online until noon on Wednesday, 25^th April 2018 at www.ndrc.ie

Friday, 4^th May 2018 
Shortlist selection of ten companies announced.

Workshop Days will take place at NDRC in Dublin. Teams must be available for all sessions.

Workshop 1: Wednesday, 16^th May 2018 
Business Model Canvas

Workshop 2: Wednesday, 23^rd May 2018 
Customer Validation

Workshop 3: Wednesday, 30^th May 2018 
Value Proposition + Market Opportunity

Workshop 4: Wednesday, 6^th June 2018 
Pitch Preparation

Final Pitches: Wednesday, 20^th June 2018
Will take place in Limerick