On 21st February, a new cohort of founders graduated from Phase 2 of the New Frontiers programme in Carlow and delivered their four-minute pitches to a platform of judges and potential investors.
The event at South East Technological University’s Carlow Campus was attended by a range of stakeholders from the startup ecosystem including Professor Marie Claire Van Hout, Vice President of Research Innovation and Impact at SETU; Colin Hayes, Managing Director of Netwatch Ireland and UK; and Ciara Concannon, National New Frontiers Programme Manager at Enterprise Ireland. Alumna Audrey Vance of Activity Time (a previous Best Pitch winner) talked about her experience of the programme and her progress since finishing New Frontiers 12 months ago.
Two awards were given following the pitches: Best Pitch went to Ciara Herit of HurlingKeeper.ie and Most Innovative Business went to Kevin Barrett of Genotrial.
Ciara Concannon shared that “It was a difficult decision for the judging panel, but I am incredibly proud of all the groups for their achievements and the progress they have made over the past six months. New Frontiers provides unparalleled support to founders, helping them expand their networks, build confidence, and secure capital. The €40,000 support package plays a crucial role in this, enabling them to focus entirely on growing their business.”
New Frontiers 2024 cohort in Carlow
The latest cohort of graduates from Carlow are:
Ciara Herity of HurlingKeeper.ie
An online platform offering specialised coaching resources and training programmes to develop hurling and camogie goalkeepers through real-game scenarios and expert insights.
Rob Brown of Hourglass
A social networking platform aiming to make scrolling less mindless.
Peter O’Hare of Eirguard
Innovative cyber security governance and compliance products for non-corporate organisations.
Keith Tracey of Benefeet
An in-house manufacturing solution for podiatrists streamlining the 3D scanning and printing of insoles.
James Byrne of Grab and Grow
High-protein, low-calorie iced coffee beverages, combining the benefits of coffee and protein shakes for health-conscious consumers.
Caroline Gethings of Anú Heritage
Consultancy services focused on conserving and recording Ireland’s cultural heritage through a holistic and research-based approach.
Kevin Barrett of Genotrial
Using AI to analyse patient health records and genomic data, rapidly matching patients with suitable clinical trials to streamline the recruitment process.
Fergus Gleeson of Fostering Connect
A GDPR-compliant and streamlined communication tool for foster carers and agencies.
Following graduation, four founders have been accepted onto Phase 3 of New Frontiers, which will provide follow-on support and guidance: Ciara Herity, Fergus Gleeson, Keith Tracey, and Kevin Barett. Best of luck to all the graduates as they take the next steps with their businesses!
Calling startup founders near Carlow
The New Frontiers programme in Carlow is delivered by South East Technological University (SETU) and the New Frontiers Programme Manager is Gemma Purcell. Find out more about Gemma and our Carlow location or see our upcoming application deadlines.
About the author
Scarlet Bierman
Scarlet BiermanScarlet Bierman is a content consultant, commissioned by Enterprise Ireland to fulfil the role of Editor of the New Frontiers website. She is an expert in designing and executing ethical marketing strategies and passionate about helping businesses to develop a quality online presence.
