The 2014 New Frontiers Business Start-up Programme is now open for applications. We encourage you to share news of this exciting opportunity with your professional and personal contacts. Qualifying entrepreneurs will receive €15,000 in funding subject to satisfactory development reviews.

We will be delivering Information Sessions in the Innovation in Business Centre (IiBC) at GMIT Galway on Tuesday 25th February at 5.30 p.m and again at 7.00 p.m, and Castlebar on Thursday 27th February at 5.30 p.m and again at 7.00 p.m for ambitious people who have an innovative business idea and want to learn more about this upcoming programme. Directions are available at www.gmit.ie/directorate/visiting-gmit

Closing date for applications is 20th of March and the full programme will commence in April.

New Frontiers will consist of Three Phases as follows:

The First Phase will test the feasibility of the proposition. It is the shortest phase (6/8 weeks) and will be conducted on a part-time basis. It will focus on the promoter, product/service, market opportunity, business model and feasibility study.

The Second Phase is much more intensive. Those accepted onto this phase must commit on a full-time basis for 6 months. Office space will be offered for FREE in the IiBCs. €15,000 funding will be available to all eligible participants.

The Third Phase is built around the business success and growth, getting to the market, exporting, generating employment and attracting investment. This will be full time over 3months. KPMG will also be sponsoring €10,000 award fund for the best emerging company on the programme.

The Programme is fully supported by experienced mentors and support is on hand from concept phase right through to commercialisation.

For those unable to attend the information session, application form (see attached) and further information for the New Frontiers Programme are available at www.gmit.ie/newfrontiers