About Evolve
From action to opportunity
Evolve is a rigorous, startup program designed to support the development of spin-out ventures. Over ten weeks, individuals/teams are introduced to proven tools and methodologies, entrepreneurial role models, and dynamic guest speakers. Our aim is simple: to help participants make evidence-based decisions about their businesses’ future potential.
Evolve is…
a ten week program, for women founders or co-founders of a commercialization idea;
at the feasibility (Proof of Concept/Feasibility Grant ) or early-commercialization stage (applying for or on a Commercialization Fund Grant);
Criteria & Benefits
Participant Criteria
This opportunity is open to:
- Individuals or teams working on a commercialization idea with a female Founder or Co-Founder.
- At the feasibility stage (planning to apply for or currently on a POC/feasibility grant) or commercialization stage (planning to apply for or currently on a commercialization grant).
- From any sector or discipline.
- Affiliated with a regional college, research center, or university.
- Resident on the island of Ireland.
Benefits of Participation
- Join a vibrant community of like-minded individuals, providing ongoing support, encouragement, and collaboration opportunities vital for long-term success.
- Connect with investors, partners, and industry customers, significantly increasing your chances of successful commercialization by accessing valuable resources and support.
- Develop an understanding of crucial business aspects bridging the gap in your knowledge.
- Foster an entrepreneurial culture in a safe and supportive setting.
- Gain comprehensive guidance and support to navigate the complex process of commercializing your research, especially if this is your first spin-out.
- Increase your commercialization success rate by acquiring the necessary skills, knowledge, and resources to transform your research into successful products or services.
- Access to up-to-date content, including industry trends, market demands, and case studies of successful commercialization efforts, crucial for your journey.
Program Details
Key Program Dates
- Program Application Opens: Monday, 09 September 2024
- Researcher Briefing: Monday, Monday, 16 September 2024
- Program Application Closes: Monday, 30 September 2024
- Evolve Shortlist Announced: Friday, 04 October 2024
- Evolve Program Commences: Wednesday, 16 October 2024 (in-person, Belfast)
- Evolve Program Concludes: Wednesday, 18 December 2024 (in-person, Dublin)
Program Schedule
The Evolve programme features a hybrid delivery model, including two in-person workshops (one in Belfast and one in Dublin) and eight online workshops scheduled from 09:30 to 13:00 GMT. Each participant/team will also receive mentor meetings and join a weekly virtual peer group meet-up. Selected participants are expected to commit to attending all workshops and mentorship sessions, ensuring no scheduling conflicts. Participants/teams should also allocate ten hours of work outside of the scheduled workshops.
- Workshop 01: Orientation, Wednesday, 16 October 2024 (in-person in Belfast)
- Workshop 02: Problem Framing, Wednesday 23 October 2024 (online)
- Workshop 03: Customer Discovery, Wednesday, 30 October 2024 (online)
- Workshop 04: Value Proposition, Wednesday, 06 November 2024 (online)
- Workshop 05: Market Sizing, Wednesday, 13 November 2024 (online)
- Workshop 06: Presentation Skills, Wednesday, 20 November 2024 (online)
- Workshop 07: Business Roadmap, Wednesday, 27 November 2024 (online)
- Workshop 08: Pitch Preparation, Wednesday 04 December 2024 (online)
- Workshop 09: Practice Pitch, Wednesday, 11 December 2024 (online)
- Workshop 10: Programme Showcase, Wednesday, 18 December 2024 (in-person in Dublin)
Award
Upon program completion, fellows will receive a Certificate of Completion for 65 training hours. The Evolve program will be further enhanced with two months of alumni peer exchange and mentorship in Spring 2025, to signpost to next stage supports.
Cohort
Evolve is a competitive call for those with a commercialization idea. It is suitable for those planning to apply to or in receipt of Enterprise Ireland, or InvestNI, feasibility or commercialization grant aid. To ensure a productive program experience, a maximum of 10 projects of up to three people (male and female) will be selected to join the program cohort.
Cost
Intellectual Property
All IP resides with the researcher(s) and academic institution. This means that any innovations, discoveries, or creations made before and during the Evolve program activities belong exclusively to them. This policy fosters an environment where researchers are encouraged to pursue innovative ideas and protect their creations.
Questions
Email A Query
Office Hours is a 15 minute chat with the program lead to understand whether Engage is a good fit for you.
Apply Today
How to Apply…
Step 01.
Begin by registering on the InterTradeIreland website. Please note it will take 24 hours to activate your account.
Step 02.
Once your registration is activated, you will receive the Evolve program application via email. Fill out and submit this application to complete the process. Applications close at 13.00 GMT on Monday, 30 September 2024.