Seedcorn Offer To Boost Irish Commerce

Entrepreneurs from across Ireland could get a huge cash boost for their business, thanks to a prize fund of €280,000 being offered by InterTradeIreland's Seedcorn All-Island Business Competition 2010.

The competition is the largest on the island in terms of the prize fund available and in the past has helped give fledgling firms 'lift-off'.

Through Seedcorn, companies on the island of Ireland have already leveraged around €125m of additional equity investment over the past six.

As well as offering cash incentives Seedcorn provides invaluable support and advice from some of the island's top investment experts and the competition mimics a real Venture Capital investment process.

InterTradeIreland Board member, Sean Gallagher who is also a well-known 'Dragon' from RTE's hit TV show The Dragon's Den said: "The economic environment has never been tougher for young companies."

Mr Gallagher, pictured here with businessman Alastair Kerr, from Sophia Search, continued: "InterTradeIreland’s seedcorn competition can help businesses get off the ground with a cash incentive as well as invaluable advice and support from leading investors across the island.

"They can use the competition to help develop their business ideas, improve their business plan and learn how to present concepts to panels of investors," he said.

"I would urge companies to enter Seedcorn and give their business a boost – aside from the prize fund on offer, the competition provides a unique opportunity for firms to raise their profile, make invaluable industry contacts and ultimately attract further investment."

This year, the two top categories – Best High Growth Company and Best Emerging Company – stand to win €100,000 and €50,000 respectively. There are also six regional prizes of €20,000 each and one Best Spinout prize of €10,000.

To register for the competition, visit: www.seedcorncompetition.com

(BMcC/GK)