Early-stage entrepreneurs and entrepreneurial teams are being encouraged this week to apply for Enterprise Ireland’s €1m Competitive Start Fund (CSF) which is now open for applications.  
 
The competition is open to early-stage companies from all sectors with an eligible innovative product or service set for global markets. The fund will award up to €50,000 in equity funding for up to 20 successful applicants.

The CSF is part of Enterprise Ireland’s strategy for increasing the number of diverse High Potential Start-Up companies (HPSUs) that have the potential and ambition to succeed internationally. The fund is designed to help start-ups reach key commercial and technical milestones, including evaluating overseas market opportunities, building prototypes, developing market entry plans, and securing third party investment.

Closing date for applications is in three weeks’ time at 3pm on Tuesday, 8 March 2022. 
 
Speaking at the launch yesterday, Minister for Business, Employment and Retail, Damien English said, "As Ireland emerges from the pandemic, it’s important that we continue to encourage entrepreneurial spirit and help our ambitious home-grown start-ups to develop and thrive. This €1m CSF will provide a vital funding boost for innovative export-focused Irish businesses and bolster their ability to compete globally."

Manager of Enterprise Ireland’s High Potential Start-Up (HPSU) Division, Jenny Melia added, "This €1m fund will assist the new generation of innovative Irish start-ups to grow further and realise their global ambition. Each successful applicant will receive up to €50,000 in funding as well as mentoring opportunities and advice from experts on Enterprise Ireland’s High Potential Start-Up team."

Source: www.businessworld.ie