We are building on the success of last year’s AIB Start-Up Academy to bring the brightest new entrepreneurs on a journey that will grow their business. The academy is a joint venture between The Irish Times and AIB to help people start business by providing information, networking opportunities and the chance to win a place on an intensive course run by Irish Times Training.

These nights are the first stage in the process and connect aspiring entrepreneurs with like-minded people and the wider start-up community. The event was hosted by Gary Quinn (The Irish Times) and showcased the success stories of Kevin Dundon (Dunbrody Country House) and Michael Kelly (GIY International). Three local start-ups took the opportunity to pitch; Christine Meehan (Natural Health Store Wexford), Natalie and Karen Keane (Bean and Goose) and Ann-Marie Carty-Stuart (Stuart Design Studio).

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