THE popular all-island networking AIB Start-up Academy Summit is making a return visit to Belfast next month, promising an even "bigger and better" experience for entrepreneurs.
One of four summits across the north and Republic this year, the Belfast leg takes place on Thursday February 9 at Life Church (6pm).
Now in its third year, the start-up academy offers participants the chance to win a place on an intensive eight-week training programme, a £200,000 prize package, regional summits and tailored boot camps – all designed to help take businesses to the next level.
An impressive line-up of industry experts are set to attend the Belfast summit, including representatives from Google, Grant Thornton and start-up specialists, Xcell Partners.
In addition, a special panel discussion will also feature in the evening with participants including Bill Wolsey (The Merchant and Bullit hotels); Diane Roberts of Xcell Partners and Colman Equity; and Eleanor McEvoy, founder of Budget Energy.
Guests will also hear elevator pitches from companies battling it out to win a place on the AIB Start-up Academy mentoring and training programme.
Ten start-ups have already been chosen for the competition and there are four remaining places up for grabs across the four summits in Belfast, Galway, Cork and Dublin.
Speaking ahead of the evening, Des Moore, head of First Trust Bank said: "We are delighted to host the second AIB Start-up Academy Summit in Belfast and believe it is a fantastic opportunity for local start-ups to network and socialise with like-minded entrepreneurs and to learn from well-known and successful business leaders.
"We will discuss issues important to the start-up community, while also sharing tips and advice from a range of experts and successful entrepreneurs about their own start-up journeys."
