Firms urged to compete for fund

Early stage and high growth companies are invited to compete for the €280,000 prize fund in InterTradeIreland’s All-island Seedcorn Business Competition.

Now in its 10th year, InterTradeIreland has supported over 1,500 enterprising companies through the Seedcorn process.

The competition mirrors the real-life investment process, and helps companies to ensure they are investor-ready. Companies submit their business plan and, if short-listed, are invited to deliver an investment pitch in front of the judging panel comprising of venture capitalists, business angels and some of the island’s leading industry experts and entrepreneurs.

Brendan Butler, InterTradeIreland board member and chairman of InterTradeIreland’s Equity Network, said: “Seedcorn is more than just a competition. Entrants can get invaluable hints, tips and advice from our experts, as well as other entrepreneurs, on how to improve their business plan and investment pitch and demonstrate to investors that their business is worth investing in.

“Early stage and high growth companies have the potential to be a key driver of future economic growth. Seedcorn allows us to work with the best emerging companies and provide them with the financial support to help them get ahead in tough economic times.”

* Register at Intertradeireland.com/seedcorn.