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Is SEEPP a full-time Programme?
It is expected that those applying to the Programme are ready to work full-time on their business, and will not be in employment elsewhere. If accepted, participants are expected to commit fully to the Programme, which means attending training workshops and other organised events, aswell as submitting reports as stipulated.
Where will I be based?
The WIT Innovation Centre is located in ArcLabs Research & Innovation Centre, Waterford Institute of Technology, WIT West Campus, Carriganore, in Waterford, just a short drive from the main WIT campus. Incubation space is also available in Tipperary Institute (Clonmel campus) and in WIT’s Enniscorthy Enterprise Support Unit. All training workshops will take place in WIT (either in Confederation House or on campus).
Will I have access to WIT facilities?
Participants are registered as WIT students and as such can avail of all facilities available in WIT (Library, Canteen, Medical, Social etc). Each participant is issued a WIT student number and logon password, which will enable them to access WIT databases etc. either on campus or remotely.
How many other participants will there be on the Programme?
At current funding levels, there will be up to 25 participants on the Programme during any one-year period.
Can my business partner(s) participate in the Programme?
Only one person per business can be accepted onto the Programme and a maximum of one desk space per company can be allocated. However, we encourage business partners to participate in events that are organised throughout the year, such as Networking evenings. They may also attend relevant workshops by prior arrangement.
What is the minimum education requirement?
Candidates are expected to be educated to Diploma level (at minimum).
Do I have to be a graduate of Waterford Institute of Technology or Tipperary Institute?
No. Graduates of all third-level educational institutes are considered for the Programme.
How much does the Programme cost?
There is no charge to the participants. The Programme is funded by the Department of Education and Science under the National Development Plan 2000 – 2006 in conjunction with the Council of Directors of Waterford Institute of Technology.
Does acceptance onto SEEPP guarantee Enterprise Ireland CORD funding?
No. Acceptance onto SEEPP allows participants to apply for CORD funding. We will advise you on your application and will arrange your interview with Enterprise Ireland. However, the decision whether or not to award CORD funding is made entirely by Enterprise Ireland.
What are the main criteria for CORD funding?
Those applying to Enterprise Ireland for CORD funding should have (at minimum) the following:
• A knowledge-based, innovative business concept
• An academic qualification from a recognised third-level educational institution
• Export potential
• Potential to create employment of 10 (minimum) within 3 years
• Potential to generate minimum EUR1.3m sales per annum within 3 years
• An experienced management team, with a balanced mixture of technical and commercial competencies.
What if I don’t qualify for CORD funding?
Participation on the programme is not dependent on receipt of CORD funding.
Can I apply for other funding?
Participants are encouraged to contact their local County Enterprise Boards, LEADER groups and other funding bodies, all of whom provide funding to enterprises under a variety of categories. Advice is also given on seeking Venture Capital (VC) funding.
Confidentiality and Ownership?
Each participant is required to sign an agreement not to disclose details of other participants’ business projects. This agreement also specifies that any discovery or invention remains the property of the participant.
What happens at the end of the Programme?
The Programme officially lasts one year. Upon completion of the Programme, participants are encouraged to keep up contact with the Programme and are included in Newsletter mailings, invited to Networking events etc. The Programme Manager is happy to meet with any past participants (by appointment) should they wish to discuss their company’s progress or receive advice on issues facing the company.
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