Applications for Donegal’s new tech accelerator are now open

10 May 2021

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Donegal Scale-X is looking for start-ups with potential for fast growth in ICT, fintech, health science and other tech industries.

A new technology accelerator is looking for start-ups that can grow their business from Donegal.

Launched by the county’s Local Enterprise Office, Donegal Scale-X will be looking for start-ups with potential for fast growth in ICT, fintech, health science, medical and other tech-based industries.

The accelerator will have a particular focus on spin-outs from existing firms in the region, and on introducing participants to potential investment funds.

Applications are now open to businesses from anywhere in the world, as long as they show a commitment to growing their business from Donegal. The programme will select 10 teams to participate.

The Local Enterprise Office in Donegal is working with Journey Partners to implement the Donegal Scale-X programme. Journey Partners works with corporates, funding bodies and entrepreneurs to help start-ups scale, focusing on helping early-stage companies reach their first major milestones.

Michael Tunney, head of enterprise at Donegal’s Local Enterprise Office, said the programme aims to give participants a deep understanding of the metrics that can drive success as well as the skills to build financial models that stand up to investor scrutiny.

“The programme will also provide mentorship from leaders in their field who have already scaled businesses from Donegal – people like Gillian Doyle of Cerebreon – so participants will get valuable insights and advice on ways to adapt their business model as necessary,” he said.

Brenda Hegarty, assistant head of enterprise, added: “Donegal Scale-X is seeking founders that have a unique insight into their industry, borne out of deep industry expertise or an evident passion for their space, as well as solutions that solve a distinct customer problem.

“Every application will be reviewed, and shortlisted candidates will be interviewed on a rolling basis, so I would encourage anyone interested to get your application in before the deadline.”

Applications are open until midday on 24 May. Successful applicants will be informed on the week of 31 May and the programme will kick off on 9 June. More information is available here.

Jenny Darmody is the editor of Silicon Republic

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