Xcelerate, SETU Xcelerate Centre

SETU welcomed a diverse group of entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and innovation experts to the New Frontiers showcase celebrating the 2024 programme participants on Friday, 21 February.

The event highlighted the entrepreneurial spirit driving new business ventures in the southeast region and provided a platform for participants to present their innovative ideas to a platform of judges and potential investors.

Welcoming the next generation

The event began with a warm welcome from Gemma Purcell, New Frontiers Programme Manager, who spoke about the importance of supporting early-stage entrepreneurs. She emphasised the value of the New Frontiers programme, funded by Enterprise Ireland, in helping participants refine their business model, access industry networks, and develop the skills needed to succeed.

Fostering innovation and industry insights

Speaking at the event, Prof. Marie Claire Van Hout, Vice President of Research Innovation and Impact at SETU, reinforced the University’s commitment to entrepreneurship and economic development in the southeast region. The event also featured a keynote address from Colin Hayes, Managing Director of Netwatch Ireland and UK, who shared his insights on building a successful business.

Following the guest speakers, eight entrepreneurs from the 2024 New Frontiers cohort delivered four-minute pitches showcasing their ventures. Prizes included a €1,000 cash prize sponsored by Netwatch, €1000 worth of mentoring and services, sponsored by Kilkenny Local Enterprise Office and a one to one strategy session with a META advertising expert at META Headquarters.

Recognising excellence

Attendees also heard from Audrey Vance, the 2023 New Frontiers overall pitch winner, who shared how the programme provided her with the mentorship and resources needed to scale her business. She encouraged the current participants to take full advantage of the network and supports available.

Supporting ambition

Ciara Corcoran, New Frontiers National Programme Manager, announced the four participants who were successful in getting a funded place on Phase 3 of the programme.  Gemma Purcell congratulated winners of ‘Best Pitch’ Ciara Herity, Founder of HurlingKeeper.ie, and ‘Most Innovative Business’ Kevin Barrett, Founder of Genotrial.

Ciara said, “It was a difficult decision for the judging panel, but I am incredibly proud of all the groups for their achievements and the progress they have made over the past six months. New Frontiers provides unparalleled support to founders, helping them expand their networks, build confidence, and secure capital. The €40,000 support package plays a crucial role in this, enabling them to focus entirely on growing their business.”

(L-R) Lorraine Brennan, Brian Ogilvie, Prof. Marie Claire Van Hout and Gemma Purcell pictured with ‘Best Pitch’ winner, Ciara Herity and ‘Most Innovative Business’ winner Kevin Barrett.

The annual showcase event was a testament to the entrepreneurial talent within the region and highlighted SETU’s ongoing role in supporting innovation, job creation, and economic development. As the New Frontiers programme progresses, it remains a crucial stepping stone for ambitious entrepreneurs striving to make their mark in the business world.

The entrepreneurs and start-ups featuring on the 2024 New Frontiers include:

Ciara Herity (HurlingKeeper.ie), Rob Brown (Hourglass), Peter O’Hare (KronoShield),

Keith Tracey (Benefeet), James Byrne (Grab and Grow), Caroline Gethings (Anú Heritage),

Kevin Barrett (Genotrial), Fergus Gleeson (Fostering Connect).

For more information on the New Frontiers programme at SETU, and how to apply, please contact New Frontiers Programme Manager, Gemma Purcell, gemma.purcell@setu.ie or apply at newfrontiers.ie/register.

Applications are now open for the part time New Frontiers Phase One at SETU ‘s Carlow campus, which will start 15 April 2025.