The “Back for Business” programme, a complimentary initiative designed to offer support for returning emigrants of Ireland in launching and developing their businesses, is now inviting new applicants. Entering its eighth year, this programme aims to cultivate and support entrepreneurial activities among those who have recently returned to Ireland or are planning to return soon. Funded by the Irish Abroad Unit of the Department of Foreign Affairs, the programme has made a significant impact on participants since its inception.
Eligible applicants can submit their applications until Thursday, January 16th, via www.backforbusiness.com. The programme will run from February to June 2025, commencing with a Launch Forum and the first round table event on February 11th. A total of 50 places will be available for participants eager to embark on their entrepreneurial journey.
“Back for Business” specifically targets Irish emigrants who have lived abroad for at least a year and returned to Ireland within the last three years. It also welcomes those currently residing abroad who intend to return in the near future. Since its launch in 2017, the programme has enabled numerous returned emigrants to significantly increase their sales and employment opportunities while addressing the unique challenges faced by this demographic.
Feedback from last year’s cohort, “Back for Business 7,” has been overwhelmingly positive. Participants reported a remarkable satisfaction rate, with 100% stating they would recommend the programme and expressed a desire to remain engaged with the community. Overall, the cohort rated their experience an impressive 4.6 out of 5. Additionally, 93% of participants felt they were closer to achieving their business goals following the programme.
At the start of the last cycle, fewer than half of the participants were actively trading; by the end of the programme, this figure had surged to nearly three-quarters. The combined turnover of the 31 participants completing the cycle rose from less than €300,000 at the beginning to an impressive €1.2 million, while the total number of jobs created increased from 14 to 47 during the six-month period.
The programme features monthly peer-supported round tables, facilitated by voluntary Lead Entrepreneurs who possess extensive experience in establishing and expanding businesses. Many of these mentors are former emigrants who successfully returned to Ireland to launch their ventures. This year’s Lead Entrepreneurs include well-known figures such as serial entrepreneur Hannah Wrixon, Morgan Browne, CEO of Milner Browne and Enterpryze, and Paul Duggan of The Gardiner Group.
Thomas Ennis, a Lead Entrepreneur and founder of the Thomas Ennis Group, expressed his enthusiasm for mentoring: “Having received excellent support when I was starting out, I understand its importance. I’m excited to give back and help those at the beginning of their entrepreneurial journey.”
Past participant Aisling McVeigh, founder of the DANU Collective, reflected on her experience, stating, “The Back for Business programme was invaluable as I transitioned back to Ireland from the Middle East. The structure and support provided were exactly what I needed to navigate this new chapter.”
Implemented by Fitzsimons Consulting, specialists in entrepreneurship and growth, the “Back for Business” programme continues to provide vital support for returning emigrants. The deadline for applications for the upcoming cycle is midnight on Thursday, January 16th, 2025. For more information or to express interest in obtaining an application form, please visit www.backforbusiness.com.
