Bizstartup.ie - NewsFunding and new markets focus of conference for start-ups

The event is being run by Microsoft Ireland, Enterprise Ireland and TechLudd and is part of the local Microsoft BizSpark programme, which provides technology and business supports to companies under three years old. Close to 400 Irish firms have entered the programme so far.

Based on feedback from last year’s event, the focus of this year’s programme will be on ways to secure funding as well as ways to build up new markets.

Event speakers

Speakers at the event will include Julie Sinnamon and Colm MacFhionnlaoich from Enterprise Ireland, who will provide advice on getting access to funding and new markets. Brian Caulfield will provide insights into the local venture capital (VC) landscape with tips on how to maximise your chances of securing VC funding. He will be joined by Shay Garvery from Delta Partners and Diane Roberts from HBAN.

Mike Sigal from early stage analyst firm Guidewire Group will provide an overview of the Guidewire Group’s G/Score Assessment Methodology, an analytical tool to help you understand your competitive strength and market position. Caroline Egan and Nigel Turner from The Open Borders Group will talk about how to expand your business internationally and the best ways to build partner strategies.

Affect Network’s Nicky Martin, meanwhile, will outline how BizSpark can help you access a range of local and EU grants for ICT infrastructure, training, R&D and recruitment through the new BizSpark EUGA programme.

Caelen King (RevaHealth), Ray Nolan (HostelWorld.com), Aidan Gallagher (InishTech), Alan Coleman (GetItKeepIt.com), Ciaran Dynes (Progress Software), Siofra Flood (Legal Consultant) and Brian Moroney (Mercatus) will all be sharing their experiences and giving their best advice on how to access capital and new markets in today’s challenging climate.

Photo: Cliff Reeves, general manager of Microsoft's .NET Platform Strategy