The Rubicon Centre has announced the graduation of the 2024 Cork cohort of the New Frontiers Programme at Munster Technological University, marking the successful launch of 15 innovative businesses into the Irish economy.

This milestone highlights the programme’s vital role in fostering entrepreneurship, driving economic growth, and supporting Ireland’s future business leaders.

Taoiseach Micheál Martin and National New Frontiers programme manager Ciara Concannon joined the celebration, underlining the national significance of the programme. 

Dr Sinéad Mellett, recipient of the Best Business Opportunity Award for Natural Vet Co, receiving her award from the taoiseach, Micheál Martin, and Professor Maggie Cusack, president of MTU; and on right, Marc O'Donovan Wyatt, recipient of the Peer Excellence Award, for Genni, receiving his award .

The taoiseach said: “Innovation and entrepreneurship are key when it comes to Ireland’s future economic success. The New Frontiers Programme plays a pivotal role in equipping business founders with the skills, knowledge, and support they need to thrive in today’s competitive landscape.”

The New Frontiers Programme, Ireland’s national entrepreneur development initiative, has been instrumental in fostering high-potential startups and businesses that contribute significantly to the local economy.

The 2024 graduates have successfully launched diverse businesses spanning sectors such as sustainability, biotechnology, digital services, and consumer goods.

Ciara Concannon said: “New Frontiers is a critical driver of Ireland’s startup ecosystem, offering entrepreneurs not just funding, but mentorship, training, and access to invaluable networks. The success of these 15 businesses demonstrates the programme’s ability to turn vision into reality.”

This year’s graduating businesses include:

  • Triple Edge Energy Ltd – Diarmuid Duggan;

  • Genni – Marc O’Donovan-Wyatt;

  • Mindful Maker – Paul Murphy;

  • A.Chara Ltd – Reece Hogan;

  • The Natural Veterinary Co.– Sinead Mellet;

  • EcoRoots Ltd – Lavanya Bhandari;

  • Zhy Biotechnologies Ltd – Zuhri Ajibola;

  • Quartz.io;

  • Noonan’s Control Method – Michael Noonan;

  • Kookease – Aoife Celia Goulding;

  • TowerWatch Ltd – Robin Thankachan;

  • RowTeic Ltd – Sam O’Neill;

  • AllYouKnead.ie – Lucy Lehane;

  • The Alternative Christmas Pudding – Sadhbh Cosgrove;

  • Boots2Base – Mairead Maher.

The collective potential of these new ventures is expected to generate employment, contribute to regional and national economies, and strengthen Ireland’s reputation as a hub for innovation.

The New Frontiers Programme at the Rubicon Centre continues to play a pivotal role in this success, providing entrepreneurs with the tools to bring their ideas to market.

Expressions of Interest are now being accepted for the next Phase 2 programme starting at the Rubicon Centre in September 2025. For further information, please see www.newfrontiers.ie and www.therubiconcentre.ie