For the third year in a row, a finalist from Enterprise Ireland’s New Frontiers Phase 2 programme at South East Technological University (SETU) in Carlow has secured a place in the final of Propelor BIC’s The Big Pitch.
This year, Mark Dunne, founder of deline8, will represent SETU at the competition. His company is developing an AI-powered platform designed to replace slow, manual technical due diligence with a system that delivers predictive financial insights within hours.
Each finalist will pitch their business idea for four minutes, followed by a four-minute Question and Answer session with the judging panel.
SETU has an impressive record at The Big Pitch, with John Barron of ‘Go Challenge’ taking home the title in 2023 and Kevin Barrett of ‘Genotrial’ winning in 2024. With Mark now reaching the final, there’s hope for a third consecutive win for a SETU-supported entrepreneur.
The Big Pitch is Propelor BIC’s marquee event, where three up-and-coming startups step into the spotlight to compete for a €7,500 cash prize and the coveted title of The Big Pitch Winner 2025. Each finalist is paired with an experienced entrepreneur who mentors them from first draft to final pitch. The event will take place in the Theatre Royal, Waterford, on Tuesday, 4 November.
For this year’s competition, Mark has been partnered with mentor Barry Downes of Suir Valley Ventures, whose experience and insights are helping to refine his pitch for success.
“We’re incredibly proud to see Mark represent SETU and the New Frontiers programme at The Big Pitch”, said Gemma Purcell, SETU New Frontiers Programme Manager at the Carlow campus, congratulated Mark on his achievement. She added, “His innovation, commitment, and focus on solving a real market challenge exemplify the entrepreneurial spirit we strive to nurture. Following the success of our previous winners, we’re hopeful this year will bring another fantastic result.”
Members of the public are welcome to attend The Big Pitch and support the finalists. Registration is free at https://TheBigPitch2025.eventbrite.com
New Frontiers, funded by Enterprise Ireland and delivered at SETU in Waterford and Carlow, is Ireland’s national entrepreneur development programme. It supports early-stage founders to develop innovative business ideas with the potential for growth and global impact.
