High Growth Start Ups Invited To First Ever Bridge To MassChallenge

Belfast's top 10 high growth start-up companies are being offered the opportunity to "spread their wings" by participating in the first ever Bridge to MassChallenge Belfast international competition.

Funded by Belfast City Council in partnership with Invest Northern Ireland and Catalyst Inc, the competition will identify and accelerate the top start-ups in Belfast, by connecting them to the MassChallenge global network.

MassChallenge provides expertise, experience, and connections to global markets, strengthens innovation ecosystems, fosters entrepreneurial success and drives the creation of high quality jobs.

Following an application process, selected companies will work closely with Catalyst Inc to ensure participants have everything they need to take full advantage of this exciting opportunity. The programme in Boston, in June, will enable participants to benefit from tailored training and workshops, one on one mentorship from top international experts, networking opportunities and unique access to Boston and MassChallenge's business networks. 

Councillor Jeffrey Dudgeon, Deputy Chairperson of Belfast City Council's City Growth and Regeneration Committee said: "If you're a Belfast based, ambitious start-up company, want to enter the US market and have the potential to achieve revenue of upwards of £10 million, I urge you to complete your application to the Bridge to MassChallenge today. It is a vital learning experience for those who want to enter the US market and could benefit from experienced mentoring to minimize risk.

"We've committed in The Belfast Agenda to growing our city's economy, so it's vital that we draw upon our international contacts and networks to boost our local businesses. This is an outstanding opportunity to access tailored, expert mentorship. Exporting can be a daunting experience, but the Bridge to MassChallenge sets out to give our businesses the confidence and the support they require to succeed in the US marketplace."

The 10 participating start-up companies will be offered support towards travel and accommodation costs by Invest Northern Ireland and mentoring from Catalyst Inc.

John Knapton, Catalyst Inc's Director of Springboard added: "This really will be a unique experience for entrepreneurs, who have ambition to scale globally, to learn from experienced US entrepreneurs and business people. What better way to maximise your potential for success?"

To apply for the Bridge to Mass Challenge, go to belfastcity.gov.uk/businessinfo and complete the online application before the deadline of Friday, 30 March 2018.