Students searching for a SPARK to ignite their business idea can now avail of a free accelerator programme by South East Technological University’s (SETU) GROWTHhub.
To take part in SPARK, all you or your group require is an exciting business idea that you are passionate about getting off the ground. Students from all programmes of study are encouraged to take part and all forms of business concepts are welcomed, from 3D printing to artisan foods. Workshops kick off on Tuesday, 21 May and run every Tuesday for six weeks until 18 June. All workshops take place in the GROWTHhub, at SETU’s Cork Road Campus in Waterford.
The SPARK programme exposes students to a series of masterclasses delivered by a team of professionals which aim to help you explore the potential in your business idea. Those who take part will also be introduced to useful frameworks and tools which will enable participants to consider their business’s potential.
Supports & networking
The initiative will signpost access to advanced government enterprise supports. What's more, students will learn how to perfect their business pitch, assess their customer base and network with other students with similar entrepreneurial ambitions.
Those who successfully complete the programme will receive a GROWTHhub certificate of completion. One person or team will secure a student bursary of €1,000 to invest in their business venture.
"Alannah Pardy won one of the top prizes at the Enterprise Ireland Student Entrepreneur Awards in 2022 and was a finalist in the Irish Times Innovation Awards in 2023."
Dr Margaret Tynan SPARK programme leader
Speaking about its benefits, programme leader Dr Margaret Tynan said “Term time is hectic for students, so this programme will run after the summer exams to allow students time to focus on their business idea. It’s an excellent opportunity to consider expert advice, engage in practical activities and evaluate next steps to see if you can nurture that SPARK of an idea to become a start-up.”
SPARK success stories
Speaking on the effectiveness of the programme, Margaret highlighted Alannah Pardy’s journey, and how she successfully launched her online video memorial business, RecaptureOne, after the COVID-19 pandemic. “Alannah won one of the top prizes at the Enterprise Ireland Student Entrepreneur Awards in 2022 and was a finalist in the Irish Times Innovation Awards in 2023,” said Margaret. Alannah has gone on to expand her company and now serves clients across Ireland and the United Kingdom.
Past SPARK participant and current SETU PhD student Nitish Swami also highlighted the experience and prominence gained from the programme, “I enjoyed the workshops and the sessions offered as part of the pre-accelerator program by GROWTHhub. The sessions were offered by experienced professionals, who have worked with SMEs or have had successful start-ups in the past.”
View a full breakdown of the SPARK programme by tapping on this link
Only current SETU registered students can apply. Please apply using your student email, as correspondence can only occur through these. Limited places are available. Where the GROWTHhub SPARK Programme is oversubscribed, all applications will be reviewed, and you will be notified by email if you have secured a place. GROWTHhub is funded by the Higher Education Authority's HCI (Human Capital Initiative) Pillar 3, a government programme designed to meet priority skills needs, by increasing collaboration between higher education and enterprise with a focus on innovations in teaching and learning.
Image: George Goulding