Going for Growth programme applications open for women entrepreneurs
Going for Growth, a scheme for female entrepreneurs looking to grow their businesses, will begin accepting applications for the 16th year of the programme. Supported by Enterprise Ireland and KPMG, the programme will hold space for up to 60 places. There is no charge for those selected and the six-month initiative will begin in January 2024.
The deadline for applications is 17 November 2023. Going for Growth has seen more than 900 business women take part since its first cycle in 2008.
Some of the past participants include Aimee Connolly of Sculpted by Aimee; Andrea Doolan of Atlantia Clinical Trials; Derval O’Rourke of Derval.ie; Kate Scott of HoloToyz; Louella Morton of TestReach; and Vanessa Creaven of Spotlight Oral Care.
The programme consists of monthly peer-to-peer roundtable discussions facilitated by successful businesswomen, known as lead entrepreneurs. Their participation is completely voluntary, with the aim to share their experience and insights with others at an earlier stage of their growth journey.
Seven of this year’s lead entrepreneurs are former Going for Growth participants.
Last year’s programme reported significant results for its 69 participants. Combined turnover increased from €80.6m at the start of the cycle to almost €92.3m by the end, almost a 15% increase in six months. Their combined workforce increased by 118 people over the cycle, while nine participants began exporting their products and services for the first time.
Feedback from the previous cycle was also extremely positive, with 96% of participants saying their involvement brought about practical change within their business and 97% saying they felt nearer to achieving their ambitions. The support provided does not end on completion of the six-month cycle, with most past participants becoming part of the Going for Growth community.
Leo Clancy, chief executive officer, Enterprise Ireland, said: “I believe our close partnership with Going for Growth provides excellent support to our incredible women entrepreneurs in scaling their businesses and achieving global ambition.”
Olivia Lynch, partner, KPMG, said: “Our recent Enterprise Barometer research showed resilience and measured confidence in the future amongst Irish businesses and entrepreneurs…With the guidance of the Lead Entrepreneurs, this initiative offers a transformative journey, connecting participants with valuable insights and a supportive community.”
Gráinne Mullins, past participant, founder, Grá Chocolates, said: “Going for Growth was such an incredible experience for me. I connected with women in a similar position to me and we could be open and vulnerable to each other about the struggles of having our own businesses. I learned so much over the last few months. Having peers, who understood and could advise you, really helped to keep me on track.”
Paula Fitzsimons, national director,Going for Growth, said: “The objective of Going for Growth is to encourage female entrepreneurs to become more ambitious; to support them to achieve their growth aspirations; and to realise the full potential of their businesses, on Irish and export markets, throughout the lifetime of their business.”
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