So, you want to go to college, but you also want to be an entrepreneur. Why not do both?
Below is a list of the top Universities and colleges in Ireland that offer students programmes, grants and supports to start and grow their business ideas, while still finishing their studies.
University College Cork – IGNITE
IGNITE at UCC supports recent graduates that have viable business ideas. The programme aims to turn original ideas into new products and services, accelerate business startups, and create jobs by nurturing entrepreneurship.
IGNITE has a comprehensive start your own business programme with many useful supports. It’s one of the best in Ireland.
Trinity College Dublin – Blackstone LaunchPad
The Blackstone LaunchPad entrepreneurship programme for students at Trinity College Dublin aims to “foster student entrepreneurs, connecting them with business and provide them with the skills to succeed as entrepreneurs”.
Based at the renowned Berkeley Library, the Blackstone LaunchPad facility is accessible to all Trinity students across all disciplines.
“We will inspire students to grow their ideas into viable businesses through mentoring, support, ideation and venture creation,” says the executive director, John Whelan.
NUI Galway – Blackstone LaunchPad
NUI Galway also houses a Blackstone LaunchPad, a multidisciplinary programme that supports a “culture of entrepreneurship”.
For student entrepreneurs, there is individual coaching, seminars and practical training in building a business. “If students have an idea or want to pitch something, or want to build out some skills or they are just curious, they can just come in and talk to us, and we’ll help them to figure out what’s next in their journey,” says Mary Carty, executive director.
Dublin City University
The DCU UStart student programme, as part of the Ryan Academy, helps students accelerate their business, from idea to product or service.
The free programme runs part-time during the summer months June to September, allowing students to focus on
