A new start-up accelerator programme aimed at further enhancing the aviation and aerospace start-up ecosystem within Ireland has been launched in Shannon.
The Propeller Shannon start-up accelerator, a partnership between Shannon Group’s International Aviation Services Centre (IASC), DCU Ryan Academy for Entrepreneurs, Boeing, and Datalex, and supported by Enterprise Ireland, will drive the development of innovative Irish and international start-up companies in the aviation sector.
The Propeller Shannon accelerator is now open to applications from potential teams or individuals both in Ireland and from overseas working in the aviation, aerospace and travel tech sectors. There are 10 slots available within the programme which will be based at a dedicated innovation hub in the Shannon Free Zone adjacent to Shannon Airport.
Successful applicants to the Accelerator programme will receive a place within the programme for a period of three months where teams will be able to build and commercially validate their technologies by working with existing networks and mentors from global aviation companies like Boeing and Datalex.
The Accelerator programme is part of Enterprise Ireland’s overall strategy to increase the number and quality of start-ups that have the potential to employ more than 10 persons and achieve €1 million in export sales within three years.
Speaking at the launch in Shannon Airport, Joe Healy, Division Manager, High Potential Start-Ups at Enterprise Ireland, said: “A priority for Enterprise Ireland is to help entrepreneurs and companies to start and scale. By introducing this accelerator programme in co-ordination with Shannon Group and DCU Ryan Academy, Enterprise Ireland is leveraging our strong international reputation as an aviation hub and our world class start-up ecosystem to allow businesses in this specialised and innovative sector to scale and succeed.”
Welcoming the announcement, Matthew Thomas, CEO of Shannon Group, said: “Over the years, Shannon has been home to innovations such as the world’s first Duty Free and the first Free Zone, as well as GPA, who pioneered the aircraft leasing industry. I’m delighted that Shannon will now be home to a new generation of aviation entrepreneurs.”
Pictured above: Eoghan Stack, CEO, DCU Ryan Academy, Jerry Maloney, Regional Director, Enterprise Ireland, Minister of State Pat Breen TD and Rose Hynes, Chairman Shannon Group
