The Devere Hall at UCC was a hub of entrepreneurial activity when 33 mini companies, from nine schools outside Cork showcased their businesses on Thursday, March 3.
During the morning, the mini companies taking part had the opportunity to display their products to the general public, as well as hearing from Ignite Mentors Alpa Agrawal (Allmin Resources Ireland Limited) and Joel Carey (Crowdsound).
Speaking at the event was Prof John O’Halloran, Vice-President for Teaching and Learning in UCC, who was delighted with the turnout and advised the students: “Always try and think outside the box and don’t be afraid to have ambition. The most important thing is to have the idea and after that the resources can be found.”
Also speaking at the event was Sean O’Sullivan, Head of Enterprise, Local Enterprise Office South Cork, who said: “I would hope to see some of the students from today, in five years time, walk through our doors, where we will be able to give them the support and help on their road to success. Cork is a great place for entrepreneurship and encouraging small business to grow, which is integral to the local economy.”
“I would hope to see some of the students from today, in five years time, walk through our doors, where we will be able to give them the support and help on their road to success.”
Initiated by the Local Enterprise Offices, the Schools Enterprise Programme is open to second level students across the country and has over 17,000 participants each year. This year’s shortlist saw nine schools in the South Cork region taking part including Midleton CBS, Midleton College, Glanmire Community College, St. Peter’s Community College Passage West, Carrigaline Community School, Coláiste an Chroi Naoifa Carrignavar, Scoil Mhuire Gan Smal Blarney, Coláiste Choilm Ballincollig and Coláiste Mhuire in Crosshaven.
