The DCU Ryan Academy for entrepreneurs has issued a call to early-stage, women-led business start-ups to apply to its first Female Propeller for High Fliers accelerator.
Female Propeller will select up to 10 start-ups for fast-tracking their businesses, develop leadership skills, achieve scale and create employment.
The Academy developed the Female Propellor programme to help tackle challenges specific to female entrepreneurs, such as the lack of role models, low self-confidence, low levels of risk-taking, lack of technical expertise and limited access to appropriate networking opportunities. To do so, the Academy will provide a range of supports specifically targeted at women-owned business, including training, mentoring, financial support and networking.
Launching Female Propeller, Ann Horan, CEO of DCU Ryan Academy for Entrepreneurs said: “This programme aims to fast-track female entrepreneurs, their leadership skills and their businesses. To do this we must give them a better understanding of themselves and the skills needed to achieve their full potential plus the knowledge and tools to create exceptional business models. They must understand the fundamental building blocks that are essential to creating a winning business.”
The overall winner of the Female Propeller for High Fliers Company 2014, will win a five-day trip to Silicon Valley for an opportunity to network and explore business development opportunities with potential investors and the start-up community.
A grant of €2,500, a range of other prizes such as free legal services will be available for all participants during the programme, along with the opportunity to pitch their business ideas on on a ‘demo day’.
Each of the 10 finalists will take part in a 13-week upskilling programme and will also be allocated a mentor matched to their specific needs.
The Female Propeller for High Fliers is open to female founders of Irish or international start-ups in operation for less than five years. All companies must be led by women and will be selected on the basis of their growth and export potential as well as team strength.
Closing date for applications is 24 January 2014.
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