Empowering student Innovators across Ireland

We provide a platform for students from all universities to collaborate, innovate, and bring their ideas to life.
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Our vision

To demystify the complex world of student innovation.

Our mission

To support the entrepreneurial journey of students across Ireland and assist in the creation of their ventures. By collaborating with universities nationwide, we aim to provide continuous support through our comprehensive programs and initiatives.
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Continuity

Ensuring ongoing support through collaborations with universities and ecosystem players.

Scalability

Leveraging technology to provide accessible and scalable programs.

Openness

For all students, regardless of their background or university.

Our network

It takes a nation to foster innovation. By partnering with universities across Ireland, we ensure that entrepreneurial support is available in your region, empowering you to tap into local resources and innovate from wherever you are.

Queen's University of Belfast

University Road, Belfast, Northern Ireland
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Queen's University of Belfast
We proudly collaborate with Queen’s Student’s Union.
Queen’s Student’s Union
Queen’s Student’s Union
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Trinity College Dublin

College Green, Dublin 2
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Trinity College Dublin
We proudly collaborate with Portal.

Technological University Dublin

191 N Circular Rd, Grangegorman, Dublin
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Check out the supports that are available at GrowthHub @TUD.
GrowthHub @TUD
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Dublin City University

Glasnevin, Dublin 9
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Dublin City University
We proudly collaborate with DCU INVENT.
DCU INVENT
DCU INVENT
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University of Galway

University Road, Galway
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Check out the supports that are available at IdeasLab.
IdeasLab
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Maynooth University  

Maynooth, Co. Kildare
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Maynooth University
Check out the supports that are available at MaynoothWorks.
MaynoothWorks
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University of Limerick

Castletroy, Co. Limerick
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University of Limerick
We proudly collaborate with Immersive Software Engineering @UL.
Software Engineering @UL
Immersive Software Engineering
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South East Technological University

Cork Rd, Kilbarry, Waterford
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Check out the supports that are available at GrowthHub @SETU.
GrowthHub @SETU
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University College Cork

College Rd, Cork
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University College Cork
We proudly collaborate with IGNITE UCC.
IGNITE UCC
IGNITE UCC
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Munster Technological University

Bishopstown, Cork & Tralee, Kerry
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Munster Technological University
We proudly collaborate with Student Inc.
Student Inc
Student Inc.
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Entrecomp framework

We not only focus on venture development but also on enhancing individual entrepreneurial competencies. The Entrecomp framework helps assess and develop your entrepreneurial skills.
Entrecomp

Entrepreneurship is learned, not inherited.
We integrate the EntreComp framework into your learning journey

Take the Entrecomp Test

Ideas & opportunities

This area focuses on the ability to identify and seize opportunities for innovation and entrepreneurship. It encompasses the following key competencies:
Spotting opportunities
Creativity
Vision
Valuing ideas
Ethical and sustainable thinking

Resources

This area emphasizes the management and utilization of various resources required for entrepreneurial activities. Key competencies include:
Self-awareness & self-efficacy
Motivation & perseverance
Mobilising resources
Financial & economic literacy
Mobilising others

Into action

This area focuses on the execution and implementation of entrepreneurial activities. It includes competencies such as:
Taking the initiative
Planning & management
Coping with uncertainty, ambiguity & risk
Working with others
Learning through experience

Testimonials

Feedback from students and university coordinators who have participated in Open Incubator programs.
Dr. Roisin Lyons
Dr Roisin Lyons
Innovation Lead @ ISE | University of Limerick
"The Open Incubator is a brilliant way to connect our talented student entrepreneurs together - to learn, network, compete, and form founder teams. My students have enjoyed using the platform, and have competed in a number of challenges to date. I would encourage all students to get involved."
Michael Mitchell
Michael Mitchell
Founder of Éirigh C.L.G | Trinity College Dublin
"Taking part in the Open Incubator Impact Challenge gave us reason to be very deliberate, and explicit about our business pitch, plan, and structure early on. This has been key in moving from a vague idea, to something concrete and actionable."
Hasti Raval
Hasti Raval
Founder of Sex’ed | Dublin City University
“I had an incredible experience participating in the GEN AI Innovation Challenge at Open Incubator. The program provided valuable resources and mentorship that helped me refine my Idea. I'm grateful for the experience and highly recommend it to others.”
Thomas Joyce
Thomas Joyce
Founder of Laochra | University of Limerick
“Participating in OI ignited my passion for entrepreneurship, and the insights I gained from the mentors were invaluable.”
Start building your idea now
Our Idea Builder allows you to develop your ideas, access playbooks, connect with mentors, and participate in our programs. Build your future with us.
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Supported by The Human Capital Initiative
Human Capital Initiative