Final Call for entries to Seedcorn competition

In addition to being in with the chance to win a share of the €280,000 total cash prize fund, shortlisted firms will also benefit from expert feedback on their business plans and access to an extensive business and investment community.

The competition is open to all independent companies incorporated in Northern Ireland or Ireland in the seed, start-up or early stages of business development and, ideally, targeting international markets.

“With all the financial and trading uncertainly at the moment, we would encourage young, ambitious firms to use this time before Brexit to get their business in shape and improve their investment potential to help accelerate growth,” said Connor Sweeney, Seedcorn project manager for InterTradeIreland.

“Taking part will give entrants a real opportunity to develop their investment skills and put their business plans to the test.”

Two local firms are guaranteed to take away €20,000 each as regional winners, before going on to compete in the all-island final and a cash boost of up to €100,000. The deadline for entries is May 26.

Irene McAleese, co-founder of See.Sense, the Newtownards-based business specialising in advanced technology to make cycling safer, which was named best ‘Early Stage’ company in the 2013 Northern Ireland regional final.

“There are so many competitions for businesses to enter but Seedcorn is probably the most prestigious on the island and is very worthwhile. We found that it is especially respected in the Halo business angel and investor world as when we are speaking to investors they put a high value on our Seedcorn success.”