Kerry launches Dragons Den-style search for 10 new entrepreneurs

THE founder of Aer Arann and Kerry businessman Jerry Kennelly are among the names who have joined forces to launch a Dragons Den-style project to assist aspiring entrepreneurs.

The programme, which has been launched by the Institute of Technology in Tralee and Shannon Development’s Kerry Technology Park, is offering 10 potential entrepreneurs a launch pad to bring their business concept to life.

Among the business people involved with the Endeavour programme are FEXCO executive vice chairman Dick Spring, chief executive of Kerry Group Stan McCarthy, founder and former CEO of Stockbyte Jerry Kennelly, chairman of Aer Arann Padraig O Ceidigh, CEO of Irish Management Institute Dr Tom McCarthy and head of the Communications Clinic Terry Prone.

Endeavour programme manager Breda O’Dwyer said: “We want to hear from people with a great business concept that is globally scalable, can work, and is capable of growing to sales in excess of €5 million in five years.

“If that’s you then just log on to the Endeavour website and you could be making your business a reality.”

The winning applicants will be briefed on the fundamentals of creating and sustaining a successful business by the business people involved, and they will also have open access to the research and development facilities of IT Tralee and Kerry Technology Park.

Kerry Technology Park said it has a success rate that is 10% higher than the national average.

“With four finalists and two winners of the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Awards, it also has the highest achievement rate of any location in the country,” said Ms O’Dwyer.

The deadline for applications is September 25 and forms are available on www.endeavour.biz.

From November the 10 participants will be matched to a business mentor. The programme culminates in an international funding showcase at the end of April next year where the 10 will get the opportunity to present to potential investors.