The Enterprise Ireland New Frontiers programme at Atlantic Technological University (ATU) Donegal-Sligo is empowering entrepreneurs from across the region to transform their business ideas into reality. Through this programme, participants not only receive mentorship and training, but they also gain access to vital enterprise support from the wider entrepreneurial ecosystem. In practical terms, this means a strengthened network of resources and collaborations across West Donegal and beyond—providing them with access to world-class co-working spaces, industry expertise, and cutting-edge digital facilities.
One key aspect of this support is the collaboration with the gteics—a network of digital hubs supported by Údarás na Gaeltachta. Entrepreneurs from West Donegal who are currently participating in the New Frontiers programme now benefit from hot desks in these hubs, providing them with workspaces that reduce travel time and allow them to work in their own communities.
Connecting Local Entrepreneurs with Vital Resource
A shining example of this collaboration can be seen in gteic@Cill Charthaigh, where Noelle Sharpe from Glas Hair has recently started using the desk facilities. She was warmly welcomed by Eunan Cunningham from WestBIC, a key player in fostering innovation and enterprise in the West of Ireland.
Gaoth Dobhair Collaboration: A Thriving Example of Stakeholder Support
Meanwhile, gteic Gaoth Dobhair is now home to two more participants from the New Frontiers programme: Shane Murphy and Aoibhín O’Dea. The collaboration between Údarás na Gaeltachta and New Frontiers has enabled Shane and Aoibhín to set up hot desks in this vibrant co-working space, offering them access to world-class facilities right on their doorstep. This partnership highlights how essential local support is in ensuring that entrepreneurs don’t miss out on valuable opportunities simply because of geography. With the support of stakeholders like Údarás, they are able to focus on growing their ventures with all the tools they need right in their local community. It’s collaborations like this that make the North West such a fantastic place for startups and entrepreneurs to thrive.
ATU Killybegs: Supporting Marine-Based Innovation
The reach of the New Frontiers programme doesn’t stop there. At ATU Killybegs, Emer Shovlin, another participant in the programme, has been supported through Karl Bonner, Marine Cluster Manager. Karl has provided critical assistance in ensuring Emer can make full use of a workspace at ATU Killybegs, leveraging the maritime-focused resources to advance her business in the heart of Donegal’s marine industry.
The support at Killybegs showcases the diversity of opportunities available through New Frontiers. With the help of industry stakeholders like Karl, entrepreneurs are equipped not just with physical spaces, but with sector-specific guidance that can propel their ventures forward.
A Unified Network of Support
These collaborations—whether through WestBIC, Údarás na Gaeltachta, or the Marine Cluster at ATU—demonstrate the power of partnership in the entrepreneurial ecosystem. Through the New Frontiers programme, entrepreneurs in Donegal and Sligo are not just participants; they’re part of a thriving community, with access to the resources, spaces, and support they need to succeed.
We’re incredibly grateful to all of our partners for their continued dedication to fostering innovation in the North West. Together, we are ensuring that the next generation of Irish entrepreneurs has the support they need to grow, innovate, and succeed.
This is just the beginning for these businesses— and we can’t wait to see what the future holds for them as they continue to grow their ventures in this region’s thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem. Go raibh míle maith agaibh!
