Young entrepreneurs to pitch mini companies at UCC

1 Mar 2016

Forty mini companies from 10 schools in the South Cork region have been shortlisted for the regional finals of the South Cork Schools Enterprise Programme, set to take place at UCC’s Devere Hall this Thursday.

Initiated by the Local Enterprise Offices, the Schools Enterprise Programme is open to second-level students across the country and attracts over 17,000 participants annually. 

Having been shortlisted from hundreds across the South Cork region, the 40 mini companies will showcase their products in the exhibition and have the opportunity to talk to mentors of IGNITE, a UCC Graduate Business Innovation programme. 

During the event, which is open to the public, companies will be marked on their business acumen, innovation and a number of key skills required to set up and run a business.

The final winner of the regional final will represent South Cork at the National Final at Croke Park on April 20.

Speaking ahead of the event, Professor John O’Halloran, Vice President for Teaching & Learning at UCC, said the event is now established as one of the highlights on the UCC calendar of events. 

“It’s truly inspirational to witness, up close, the energy, enthusiasm and effort that Cork’s students and schools commit to this schools’ enterprise programme. The programme is a wonderful educational experience for the upcoming generation of entrepreneurs, all incredibly motivated and talented students,” he commented.  

“We wish every student well in the final, and encourage all those who don’t progress on this occasion to never give up faith in something you firmly believe in."

Midleton CBS, Midleton College, Glanmire Community College, Colaiste An Phiarsaigh Glanmire, St. Peter's Community College Passage West, Carrigaline Community School, Colaiste an Chroi Naofe Carrignavar, Scoil Mhuire Gan Smal Blarney, Colaiste Choilm Ballincollig and Colaiste Mhuire in Crosshaven are taking part in this year’s semi-finals.

Having exhibited at last year's Business Runway event at Cork Airport in December, the students will once again have the opportunity to showcase their mini companies.

“Having visited all the schools and met the students involved, it has been a privilege to see first-hand the high standard of work these young entrepreneurs are producing. The regional final will be a fantastic opportunity for the general public to come along and see the real potential of these students,” said project coordinator, Katherine Corkery.

Devere Hall, UCC – Thursday, March 3, 11am-2pm.