Enterprising

WestBIC

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Enterprising

Each episode on the WestBIC podcast we discuss an entrepreneurial topic and delve deeper into what it takes to be a successful startup in Ireland. Featuring guest expert speakers and entrepreneurs with start-ups at various stages who will give their insights and experiences of the startup process. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

MAR 31

Dream It, Believe It, Achieve It: Gráinne Mullins’ Journey from Chef to Entrepreneur

In this episode of WestBIC’s Enterprising Podcast, host Colleen Baxter sits down with Gráinne Mullins, the award-winning pastry chef turned entrepreneur behind Grá Chocolates. Gráinne shares her journey from working in Michelin-starred kitchens to building a luxury chocolate brand renowned for its artistry and quality. She opens up about the challenges of scaling a premium handmade product, the lessons learned along the way, and the pivotal moments that signaled her brand’s success. With International Women’s Day in mind, Gráinne also discusses how the business community can better support female entrepreneurs. Tune in for insights into the balance between creativity and business leadership, the power of mentorship, and, of course, a quick-fire round to wrap it all up! Listen now and satisfy your sweet tooth at grachocolates.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

25 min
MAR 3

Investing in Women: Ambition, Networks & Changing the Game with Mary McKenna

In this episode of WestBIC’s Enterprising Podcast, Mary Ryan, Deputy CEO of WestBIC sits down with Mary McKenna. Mary is a Donegal-based entrepreneur, angel investor, and co-founder of AwakenHub—a social enterprise dedicated to supporting women founders across Ireland. She is also the Chair of AwakenAngels, Ireland’s first and only all-island, women-led investment community. Mary shares her entrepreneurial journey, reflecting on the struggles of raising investment in 2006 and how the investment landscape has evolved. She emphasizes the importance of being ambitious from day one, grasping opportunities, and recognizing that every opportunity is connected to a network. Join us as we discuss investing in female founders, the power of networks, and accelerating action for gender equality ahead of International Women’s Day 2025. Plus, don’t miss our fun quick-fire round to wrap up the episode! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

41 min
JAN 31

Simplifying Digital Transformation with Data2Sustain

In today’s tech-driven world, keeping up with digital trends can feel overwhelming, especially for smaller businesses and public organisations. But that’s where Data2Sustain steps in. In this episode, John Brennan, CEO of WestBIC, and Mike Conroy, Director of Data2Sustain, unpack the critical role of Data2Sustain, a European Digital Innovation Hub (EDIH), in helping businesses transition toward sustainability through digital innovation. Key highlights include: An introduction to Data2Sustain’s services, such as Business Model Development, 'Test-Before-Invest,' pilot projects, and skills training.The importance of combining tech and sustainability expertise to drive impactful change.Overcoming challenges like AI adoption and closing the digital skills gap. Small businesses can often struggle to keep up with digital advances, so Data2Sustain is here to level the playing field. By providing access to technology and expert advice, the hub helps SMEs boost competitiveness, streamline their operations, and explore new growth opportunities. For more information visit https://data2sustain.ie/ or contact WestBIC directly on https://www.westbic.ie/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

37 min
06/04/2024

Exploring Enterprise Ireland's Pre Seed Start Fund

In this episode, Mary Ryan, Deputy CEO at WestBIC, delves into the specifics of Enterprise Ireland's Pre-Seed Start Fund. She provides a comprehensive overview of the fund, explaining its purpose and the crucial role it plays in nurturing early-stage start-ups. Mary details the eligibility criteria, outlining who can apply and the types of projects and entrepreneurs the fund is designed to support. Furthermore, Mary discusses the application process, offering valuable insights and tips for potential applicants to improve their chances of success. She also emphasises how WestBIC can support you throughout the process, from initial application to securing funding. Mary's insights make this episode an invaluable resource for anyone considering applying for the Pre-Seed Start Fund, providing clarity and guidance on leveraging this opportunity for business growth and innovation. To find out more about our unique service offerings, contact us at www.westbic.ie Tell us if you found this episode beneficial! Find us on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook & LinkedIn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

20 min
04/23/2024

Key Business Insights for Entrepreneurs

In this episode, Padraig Considine from Professional Accounting Solutions sheds light on the journey of enterprising individuals venturing into the dynamic realm of entrepreneurship. He delves deep into tailored business insights crafted specifically for those initiating their entrepreneurial odyssey. Whether you're venturing into startup territory, transforming a passion project into a business, or simply exploring the entrepreneurial landscape for the first time, you're in the right place. Join us as we uncover practical strategies, dispense invaluable tips, and illuminate the path forward. From tackling initial hurdles to seizing promising opportunities, we're here to equip you with the knowledge and motivation essential for success. So, gear up with your entrepreneurial spirit and let's set sail on this exciting adventure together! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

27 min
01/16/2024

Empowering Change: The Impact of Social Enterprises in Today's Society

In this episode Seamus McCormack, Area Manager at WestBIC delves into the profound impact of social enterprises in today's society. Join us as we discuss their benefits and highlight inspiring stories of positive change. Discover how social enterprises are reshaping our world, balancing financial success with social impact. It’s clear that social enterprises play a vital role in shaping a more inclusive and socially conscious economy. By balancing financial success with positive societal impact, social enterprises are contributing to a brighter and more sustainable future. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

19 min
11/20/2023

Innovation Hubs: What really are the benefits of basing yourself or your Start-up there?

WestBIC's Alison McGonagle sits down with Anne Marie McLaughlin, Innovation Manager of the recently opened Inishowen Innovation (ii) in Buncrana, Co. Donegal, to discuss what the true benefits are of innovation hubs and facilities. This episode explores: Can you have it all? Work-life balance - can you have a successful career or start up while being based in a more rural area as opposed to the bigger urban centres?The added benefits of an innovation centre or hubHow Inishowen Innovation came to fruitionAnne Marie's return back home from the StatesThe continuous growth of innovation in DonegalThe supports available in Donegal and the NorthWest region Inishowen Innovation Website: https://theii.com/ Email: AnneMarie.McLaughlin@theii.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

35 min
08/01/2023

An Entrepreneurial Story: Konree Innovation

This episode is for any early-stage entrepreneur, people thinking about perusing entrepreneurship or applying for funding. The beginning of this story is about identifying a real problem worth tackling with a view to building a profitable business but as the conversation develops, Margaret Rae, Co-Founder and Managing Director of Konree Innovation delves into many tips and tricks to building an investible business and so much more. Margaret talks to Chantal Costello (WestBIC), about the supports she received from New Frontiers, to EMPOWER, to the Women EU Tech Award, to WestBIC, to Enterprise Ireland. Some key topics include: - Konree Innovation, how it all started and the idea generation process - Margaret’s move from a researcher to an entrepreneur - Stepping forward into female entrepreneurship and overcoming barriers - Building confidence - Building a network that you can trust and lean on, supporting fellow entrepreneurs and paying opportunities forward. - Understanding and acknowledging the gaps in your business and making a plan to fill them. - What startups need to know about Enterprise Ireland’s Pre Seed Start Fund - Optimising investment to propel the company, hitting milestones and impact management. - How to hire the right team . - Recruiting the right co-founder, and co-founder compatibility! - Tips on writing applications - So much more!! Register for the next online Application Support Workshops are organised by the Business Innovation Centres (BIC) in collaboration with Enterprise Ireland for the Pre Seed Start Fund here. These workshops are interactive and participation is welcomed from entrepreneurs and early stage companies considering applying to the fund, including those based internationally looking to start a business in Ireland. Workshops are free to attend but advance registration is required. Contact Margaret here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/margaret-rae-74304736/?originalSubdomain=ie Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

49 min

Each episode on the WestBIC podcast we discuss an entrepreneurial topic and delve deeper into what it takes to be a successful startup in Ireland. Featuring guest expert speakers and entrepreneurs with start-ups at various stages who will give their insights and experiences of the startup process. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Creator

WestBIC
Years Active

2020 - 2025
Episodes

30
Rating

Clean
Copyright

© WestBIC
Show Website

Enterprising