On 15 May, SETU hosted the Enterprise Ireland New Frontiers Phase 1 networking day at its campus in Carlow.
The event marked the end of Phase 1 of the New Frontiers Programme, a national entrepreneurial development programme funded by Enterprise Ireland for ambitious individuals with an innovative business idea.
Phase 1 is run on a part-time basis with evening workshops being held across a five-week block. This programme allows the aspiring entrepreneurs to research and test the validity of their business idea.
Gemma Purcell, New Frontiers’ Programme Manager, said, “New Frontiers Phase 1 plays a critical role in helping early-stage entrepreneurs take their first steps validating their business idea. The networking day provides an opportunity for participants to pitch their proposition in person — gaining real-time feedback and building confidence.”
The group of entrepreneurs assembled for a day of networking, sharing, and collaboration. Brian Ogilvie, Head of Entrepreneurship and Rural Engagement, extended a warm welcome to all participants and guest speakers, before each business pitched their ideas to the group. Participants shared the various insights they had learned throughout Phase 1 and outlined their goals for the future.
The group heard from guest speaker Alex Kelly, founder of Flower Child and former New Frontiers participant. Alex spoke at the event sharing her own entrepreneurial journey to date, including her own experience on the New Frontiers Programme. Touching on what she has learned throughout her time as an entrepreneur, Alex passed on advice for any participants aiming to progress their ideas further.
Flower Child specialises in natural alternatives to everyday home fragrance products. Alex graduated from the New Frontiers in 2024 after completing all three phases of the programme. The company is based in the Xcelerate Centre at SETU's Carlow campus and is achieving year-on-year growth as it continues to build its international customer base.
Participants finished the day with a campus tour which showcased the top-class facilities at SETU and the range of resources available to enterprises in the south east region. The tour ended at the Xcelerate Centre, where participants learned more about the resources available to them if they progress to Phase 2 of the programme.
Applications for Phase 2 of New Frontiers at SETU Carlow campus are now open. The closing date for applications is 15 July 2025. This full-time, six-month programme has a support package worth over €30,000, including a €15,000 tax-free allowance with no equity taken.
For more information on the programme, contact Gemma Purcell, New Frontiers Programme Manager on [email protected] or email newfrontiers.[email protected] for an application form.