Seedcorn Investor Readiness Competition
Competition aimed at early and new start companies who want to raise equity - a maximum prize fund of €800,000 is available.
- The competition is aimed at independent ventures incorporated on the island of Ireland (Republic of Ireland or Northern Ireland) in the seed, start-up or early stages of business development and ideally targeting international markets.
- The competition is for individuals or venture teams, who have created, manage and own such ventures.
- The promoters/founder entrepreneurs are to have played a major role in conceiving the venture, continuing to have key management roles and to own significant equity.
- Ventures which have already raised external equity in excess of €1m (or sterling equivalent) are not eligible.
The judges are looking for the same elements as a potential investor including:
- high growth companies
- the optimum risk/reward profile
- a strong management team
- ability to exit
InterTradeIreland’s Seedcorn Investor Readiness Competition, for start-ups and early-stage businesses, mirrors the real-life investment process.
Participants, who are in with a chance to win a share of a €800,000 cash prize fund, are able to secure expert feedback on their business plans and pitches, improve their investor readiness and gain exposure to investors, and boost their profile.
Prizes
There are a range of cash prizes:
- €130,000 for the overall winner
- Two €100,000 prizes for Best Business-to-Business, Business-to-Consumer or Deep Tech company winners
- Nine €50,000 regional winners
- €20,000 impact award
Every business idea/plan submitted is reviewed by investment experts and you are given individual feedback.
Shortlisted companies also get a unique opportunity to pitch to investors and business leaders.
The competition closes at 1pm on Friday 25 April 2025.
- InterTradeIreland