New Frontiers Entrepreneur Development Programme GENERAL GUIDELINES

Transcription

1 New Frontiers Entrepreneur Development Programme CALL FOR PROPOSALS GENERAL GUIDELINES PLEASE CONSULT THESE GUIDELINES BEFORE COMPLETING THE NEW FRONTIERS APPLICATION FORM

2 Outline New Frontiers is Ireland s national entrepreneur development programme that is delivered at a local level by the Institutes of Technology, with participating universities, and funded and managed by Enterprise Ireland. Its primary purpose is to accelerate the development of sustainable early stage businesses across the country which have strong employment and growth potential. Based on technology / innovative business applications from high-quality promoters, the intensive entrepreneurship development aims to deliver a steady stream of regionally significant sustainable enterprises, the majority of which are expected to become Enterprise Ireland or Local Enterprise Office (LEO) clients. This Programme is an important element of Enterprise Ireland s strategy in the promotion of entrepreneurship and creation of new business startups, and is an action for Enterprise Ireland on the Government s Action Plan for Jobs. The programme is one of a suite of Enterprise Ireland initiatives in the Institutes of Technology (IoT) sector which form part of Enterprise Ireland s remit in the commercialisation of 3 rd level research and enhancing Ireland s entrepreneurship and innovation infrastructure. These initiatives have as their strategic objective the harnessing of the expertise and facilities available in the regional Institutes of Technology for the benefit of emerging and established businesses in Ireland. This document sets out the general guidelines for Institutes of Technology interested in applying to Enterprise Ireland for funding to run the New Frontiers Programme from It is accompanied by an application template. New Frontiers General Guidelines page 2 of 29

3 CONTENTS I. Call Procedures 1. Introduction 1.1 Strategic context 1.2 Programme framework 1.3 Strengthening the programme to improve start-up output 2. Call for Proposals 2.1 Overview 2.2 Eligibility 2.3 Call Timetable 3. Application Process 3.1 Draft proposal and full proposal 3.2 Check list 4. Evaluation & Approval 4.1 Evaluation & Approval Process 4.2 Evaluation criteria 4.3 Scoring 4.4 Feedback II. The Programme 5. Activity under the Programme 5.1 Recruitment of Participants 5.2 Programme format 5.2 Multiple entry and exit points 5.3 Participant levels 5.5 Frequency of courses 6. Programme Enhancements Programme manager role Core Training modules Delivery model participant development pathway Programme facilitator panel Creating and maintaining a challenging environment Recruitment, selection and progression Networking (participant, alumni, programme management) Building reputation Collaboration & consortia formation 7. Budget and Costing 7.1 Overview 7.2 Eligible costs 7.3 Ineligible costs 7.4 Funding Term 8. Role of Host Institution 8.1 Institutional commitment and delivery 8.2 Course governance and management 9. Role of Enterprise Ireland 9.1 Central management 9.2 Participant monitoring 9.3 Monitoring programme output and impact 9.4 Branding and promotion 9.5 Networking and national events 9.6 Access to Enterprise Ireland s mentor network Appendices A. Participant Selection Criteria B. Sample Phase 1&2 Application Forms C. Programme Manager s Role New Frontiers General Guidelines page 3 of 29

4 I. CALL PROCEDURES 1. INTRODUCTION 1.1 Strategic context The creation of companies with the potential to grow, export and provide employment opportunities is critical to Ireland s economic future. As the State agency responsible for indigenous economic development, Enterprise Ireland supports a range of activities across the country to foster entrepreneurship. An important element of this is its relationship with the Institutions of Technology, with which it progressively collaborates on the entrepreneurship agenda through a range of activities including the Technology Gateways Programme and the Campus Incubation Programme. The New Frontiers Entrepreneur Development Programme forms an important element of a suite of integrated programmes that underpin the Institutions role in the support and creation of new innovative and knowledge intensive enterprises. 1.2 Programme Framework The basic framework established in the programme will continue, however changes to the framework will be piloted in 2016 which when finetuned will be adopted programme-wide. The programme will comprise three phases, (with the following details applying until agreed changes are implemented): The first phase enables the entrepreneur to test his/her business idea on a part-time basis over a two month period. It serves as a pre-screening for the second phase, which is the core of the programme. The second phase requires a six-month fulltime commitment on the part of participants. During this time, participants receive intensive training and development, as well as a hot desk in the Institution s incubation facility. One-to-one mentoring is also provided along with the continual support of the incubation centre s development team. Additionally, participants selected onto Phase 2 receive a stipend of 15,000 from Enterprise Ireland subject to satisfactory progress against their business development targets. The third phase of the programme provides an opportunity for the entrepreneur to remain for up to three months within the support structure of the Institution while implementing their business plan, generating revenue and raising finance. No further stipend is provided for this phase. 1.3 Strengthening the programme to improve start-up output A number of changes to the programme will be piloted during The changes will focus on, but may not necessarily be limited to, Phase 2 and Phase 3 (duration, stipend and content). All programme hosts will be required to implement the changes recommended following the evaluation of the pilot. The impact of these changes will be reviewed by Enterprise Ireland and approved changes will be adopted across the programme in The sites for the pilots will be decided after funding has been approved for programme providers and will be in consultation with the relevant Institutions. A mid-term programme review will also be used to determine whether changes are necessary in the later years of the programme. Again, all providers shall implement any changes proposed by Enterprise Ireland as a consequence of this review. New Frontiers General Guidelines page 4 of 29

5 2. CALL FOR PROPOSALS 2.1 Overview Institutes of Technology, in consortia with neighbouring Institutes or universities, are invited to submit a bid for funding to deliver the New Frontiers Entrepreneur Development Programme in their region(s) for the period Funding will be awarded to consortia that meet the evaluation criteria outlined in Section 4. Applications must come from a consortia, with one Institution as lead, as this provides the basis for an enhanced national programme, improved outputs and increased value for money. By applying to Enterprise Ireland under this Call, Institutions and collaborating consortia partners are committing to adhere to the guidelines as set out in this document and the Programme Grant Agreement issued to Institutions approved for funding. 2.2 Eligibility This Call for Proposals is open to the thirteen Institutions of Technology covered by the 1992 Regional Technical Colleges Act plus the Dublin Institution of Technology. Other third-level institutions will be welcome to collaborate with the Institutions for the benefit of the programme activities, but will not be eligible for funding from the New Frontiers programme, except to cover agreed nonstaff costs for resources which are not available in the collaborating Institutions. Importantly, the Terms & Conditions of New Frontiers disallow applications that seek, in any way, to derive an equity stake in the enterprises which develop out of New Frontiers as a pre-requisite for course entry. To avoid conflict of interest, no employee of the consortium partner Institutions may seek to take an equity stake in any resultant company. There will be no payment sought by the Institution from participants (at any stage including application stage) who wish to be involved in the programme. 2.3 Call Timetable The timetable for the Call for Proposals is outlined below. Enterprise Ireland will make every effort to ensure rapid evaluation of applications. Call for Proposals Opened Thursday 12 th November 2015 Call for Proposals Closed Noon, Friday 11 th December 2015 Assessment Panel meetings 18 th -22 nd of December 2015 Recommendations to the Industrial Research Commercialisation Committee Recommendations to Enterprise Ireland Board for funding approval February 2016 * March 2016 * *latest estimated date New Frontiers General Guidelines page 5 of 29

6 3. APPLICATION PROCESS Proposals may be submitted to Enterprise Ireland at any time between the call opening and closing dates. Applications received after the published closing date will be ineligible and will not be considered for funding under any circumstances. The application process is a single stage process. The maximum length of a proposal (excluding appendices) should not exceed 13 pages. Where an applicant exceeds this limit they may be asked to resubmit a revised proposal that abides by the page count within 2 working days. The minimum font size should be Verdana 11 or equivalent. 3.1 Full proposal Applications must be submitted using the New Frontiers Application Form which shall not be changed in any way. The application form must contain a primary contact for each collaborating Institution. The primary contact must be a permanent employee of the Institution. The full proposal must be signed by the Authorised Officer of the Designated Institution and the Head of Development for each Institution seeking funding in the application. The original of the fully signed and completed application form plus two hard copies should be sent to: New Frontiers Programme FAO PJ Mealiff Enterprise Ireland The Plaza - East Point Business Park Dublin 3 An electronic copy should also be send to mark.whelan@enterprise-ireland.com Proposals will be acknowledged by by Enterprise Ireland within 3 working days. Applications that do not arrive before the closing date will be ineligible. 3.3 Check List 1. The application must be submitted by a permanent member of staff on behalf of the Institution (Institution s primary contact). 2. Signatures and Verification The Authorised Officer of the Designated Institution and the Institution s Head of Development must sign and date the full proposal and the college stamp must be applied to the signature page. Applications from a consortium must be signed by the relevant parties from all collaborating Institutions. 3. Adhere to the page limitations imposed. Information in excess of these limits will hamper evaluation of the application and incur delays in its assessment. Please note that non-compliance may render the application ineligible. 4. Applications will not be accepted: a) If sufficient copies of the full proposal are not provided (Original plus 2 separate copies plus electronic copy). b) If the full proposal is not endorsed by the appropriate Officers of the designated institution(s) and signed by all relevant parties, and stamped. c) If the proposal is received after the specified closing date. d) If information is omitted or sections of the application are incomplete. New Frontiers General Guidelines page 6 of 29

7 4. EVALUATION & APPROVAL 4.1 Evaluation & Approval Process The Proposal will be evaluated by a review panel comprising Enterprise Ireland staff and independent evaluator(s) under the criteria set out in Section 4.2. The selection of panel members including independent evaluators is at all times the prerogative of Enterprise Ireland. All reasonable measures will be taken to ensure objectivity, fairness, quality and confidentiality. The review panel will use the expertise and views of the panel members to determine a consensus view and prepare a funding recommendation document for each proposal application. Their recommendation will be based on the information contained in the application form and will be further informed by the performance of the Institution/Consortium during the iteration of the New Frontiers Programme. The recommendation documents produced by the review panel will be circulated to Enterprise Ireland s Industrial Research & Commercialisation Committee (IRCC) and Enterprise Ireland Board for the necessary funding approval. 4.2 Evaluation Criteria The application form will be evaluated under the following criteria: 1. Institution Commitment Performance 3. The Programme 4. Expenditure and Value for Money 4.3 Scoring The review panel will assess the proposals using the following ratings: A. The proposal successfully addresses all relevant aspects of the Excellent criterion in question. Any shortcomings are minor. B. The proposal addresses the criterion well, although certain Good improvements are possible. Funding conditions may be required. C. While the proposal addresses some of the points, there are other Fair material weaknesses that require substantial work. Proposal D. Poor should only be funded with conditions attached. The proposal fails to address the overall criterion under examination or cannot be judged due to missing or incomplete information. The overall criterion is addressed in a cursory and unsatisfactory manner. There are serious inherent weaknesses in relation to the overall criterion in question. 4.4 Feedback Institutions will be informed of the outcome of the review process after the relevant funding meeting. All assessment forms will be made available to applicants (successful and unsuccessful) to review after the results of the Call for Proposals have been announced. Those Institutions that are unsuccessful in meeting the required standard for funding will be offered feedback and further advice from Enterprise Ireland. Where appropriate, such Institutions may be offered the opportunity to submit a revised application at a later date. New Frontiers General Guidelines page 7 of 29

8 II. The New Frontier Entrepreneur Development Programme 5. KEY PROGRAMME ACTIVITIES 5.1 Recruitment of Participants To ensure the programme makes a significant contribution to increasing the number of High Potential Start Ups (HPSU) produced each year, and to achieve sustained and balanced regional economic growth, each programme will need to recruit good quality, committed promoters. Recruitment will be central to the success of each programme. Participants will be selected based on their: Track record o Business experience or acumen o Capability having the necessary management and technical skills o A suitable background that will enable the development of a business with sustainable competitive advantage Credibility e.g. ability to raise development funding Commitment, drive & determination Quality of the business idea Please refer to Appendix A for more detail on participant selection criteria. Sample phase 1 and 2 application forms are included in Appendix B. 5.2 Programme Format Activities funded under the Programme will initially follow the threephase format rolled out in The format may alter, arising out of the changes which will be piloted during The changes will focus on, but may not necessarily be limited to, Phase 2 and Phase 3 (duration, stipend and content). All programme hosts will be required to implement the changes recommended following the evaluation of the pilot. Phase 1 -Testing the business The first phase is part-time and runs for an 8-10 week period with workshops taking place at weekends and in the evening. Phase 2 - Planning the business Phase 2 forms the core of the programme. It is a six-month intensive development of the promoter and business proposition through full-time involvement in workshops, mentoring and challenging performance reviews. Financial support up to a maximum of 15,000 is provided to the promoter to ensure his/her complete commitment and to defray costs of critical activities agreed in the promoter s business plan (e.g. customer visits, etc). Phase 3 - Developing the business The final phase provides an opportunity for some Phase 2 participants to remain for up to three months within the support structure of the Institution while implementing their business plan, developing sales and/or securing investment. No financial support is provided to the participants by the Programme. 5.3 Multiple Entry and Exit Points The programme structure involves interview-based selection for each of the three Phases of the programme. This will allow participants to enter at a point that is appropriate to their needs, e.g. it is not necessary for a high quality New Frontiers General Guidelines page 8 of 29

9 promoter with a well developed business proposition to attend Phase 1 if they pass the interview for Phase 2. However, it is expected that in excess of 80% of Phase 2 participants will come from the preceding Phase 1 programme. The Phase 2 selection panel shall include the local New Frontiers Programme Manager, an independent business person, a representative of the appropriate LEO and an Enterprise Ireland staff member who shall be the panel chair. 5.4 Participant Levels It is anticipated that in excess of 400 participants per year will be accepted onto Phase 1 nationally. Participant numbers in Phase 2 will reduce to approximately 175 per year nationally. The ability of a host Institution to ensure sufficient participant numbers that meet the demanding admission criteria for Phase 2 will be an important factor in the awarding of funding under the Call. Submissions must include a clear strategy to produce a credible pipeline of participants, and the required levels of participants must be achieved as agreed with Enterprise Ireland when Standard Grant Agreement is issued. 5.5 Frequency of Programmes Institution consortia are encouraged to submit plans that enable Phase 2 of the programme to be run more than once per year in order to be more responsive to the needs of the entrepreneurial community s needs. These plans should be flexible to allow Phase 1 to run as required by participant demand. Consortia should schedule their programme delivery times to facilitate the implementation of this strategy. New Frontiers General Guidelines page 9 of 29

10 6. PROGRAMME ENHANCEMENTS Each entrepreneur that engages with New Frontiers is unique in some way and therefore the needs of those participants are all somewhat different. Applicants will be expected to implement all improvements identified during the existing programme and any changes recommended post the 2016 Pilot. This condition will be incorporated into the Programme Grant Agreement. 6.1 Key Role of the Programme Manager Intelligent Broker Key to delivering this tailored advice and support is the Programme Manager in each regional location. To act as an Intelligent Broker the Programme Manager needs to build detailed knowledge and understanding of the individual participant s needs and customise the support accordingly (Appendix C Programme Manager s Role). A Programme Manager network was established in 2013 to ensure the exchange of best practice and to facilitate the development of the Programme Managers to maximise their impact on start-up success. In addition to this peer-to-peer learning, the professional development of the Programme Managers became more formalised in 2015 with the provision of appropriate training and development from Enterprise Ireland. The capability and commitment of the existing cohort of Programme Managers is recognised by Enterprise Ireland as an important success factor of the programme to date and into the future. To enable the Programme Manager to function as an Intelligent Broker appropriate support structures must be in place within the Institution/consortium. Each proposal should therefore include an outline of the resources allocated to managing and administrating the programme in their region (including time commitment & costings). Ideally there should be significant support from the Incubation Centre Management Team combined with substantial administrative support. 6.2 Core Training Modules Although the role of the Programme Manager is flexible and reactive to the needs of the participants, there are a number of areas that will be core to the New Frontiers programme. The core training modules listed below will form the foundation of all future New Frontiers programmes: 1. Market Research / Opportunity Validation 2. Technology / Innovation 3. Entrepreneur / Team Development 4. Finance / Funding / Legal 5. Business Strategy 6. Sales and Marketing Each of these modules will contain 2-3 sub-themes will be delivering by way of the Participant Development Pathway model described below. The core modules will be supplemented with a set of Electives that will be tailored to their participant cohort as they embark on Phase 2.This delivery model will be the New Frontiers General Guidelines page 10 of 29

11 programme standard for all modules. Additionally, the programme will follow the Lean Start-up approach to new venture development. 6.3 The Participant Development Pathway While the core training modules should initially be delivered in an interactive class-room style workshop there should be clear integration along a development pathway for each participant i.e. the large group workshop must be followed by smaller peer-group work followed by one-to-one mentoring The focus then moves from general concepts to putting into practice to individual application. This Participant Development Pathway model includes pre-workshop preparation for both the participant and the module facilitator, and follow-up tasks/deliverables for each participant. Key to the success of this approach is to ensure that no domain knowledge is applied in isolation and that the deliverables from each specific module form the basis of an overall investor ready business plan. To support this model, the New Frontiers programme will be structured so that the greater proportion of resource will be dedicated to individual mentoring and coaching as opposed to more formal training sessions. 6.4 Programme Facilitator Panel (Mentor/Trainer/Deliverer) Underpinning the content and delivery structure outlined above is the availability of suitable programme deliverers or facilitators. Adapting some of the best practice amongst the top performing international programmes, New Frontiers places a greater emphasis on mentoring rather than training. A national facilitator panel was established for the New Frontiers Programme. Members of this facilitator panel will contribute to the Participant Development Pathway by conducting workshop follow-up sessions with smaller groups and 1-to-1s as required. Please note that the Institution/Consortium should not enter into contractual commitments with a third party to deliver any aspect of the New Frontiers Programme beyond In addition to the mentoring/advisory/coaching support of the facilitator panel, Enterprise Ireland will continue to provide 5 mentoring sessions per Phase 2 participant from the EI Mentor panel over a six month period (see section 9.6) (where justified additional mentoring sessions may be provided.) 6.5 Creating and maintaining a challenging environment New Frontiers is aimed at a broad group of potential entrepreneurs that differ widely in terms of sector, stage of development and growth potential. For each participant, and the group as a whole, it is important to create and maintain a challenging environment that accurately reflects the pressure of business startup, and that continually drives the pace of development. Within the 6 month period of Phase 2 the training module workshops delivered on a large group basis will be front loaded into the first 4 months of Phase 2. The programme will also incorporate frequent and constructive stress-testing through the use of recurrent 1-to-1 and peer group challenges. The programme manager will make a significant contribution to maintaining this challenging environment. New Frontiers General Guidelines page 11 of 29

12 6.6 Recruitment, Selection & Progression Phase 1 Recruitment Process The Phase 1 recruitment process will use the existing standardised application form provided by Enterprise Ireland (Appendix B). The process is outlined below: 1. Call to action commences with off-line and on-line advertising, promotion, etc. National promotion will be carried out by Enterprise Ireland. Institutions/Consortia are expected to promote their programme regionally. 2. Prospective applicants initiate an enquiry through the website or call their chosen Institution for further information. 3. All enquirers will be asked to complete the standard Phase 1 Application Form (Appendix B) except in cases where the entrepreneur and/or business idea is clearly ineligible. 4. All applicants who complete and submit the Phase 1 Application Form to the Institution will be offered a short interview except where clearly ineligible. This is necessary as the recruitment process needs to probe the characteristics and skills of the entrepreneur as much as the business idea. Furthermore, it is difficult to assess the potential of a business from an application form alone. 5. Each interview is conducted in person by the Institution. This interview puts the onus on the candidate to prepare correctly if they wish to be considered a serious contender for a place on the programme. Interviewing all applicants bar those who are ineligible de-risks the selection process for the Institution. 6. Suitable applicants are offered a place via letter/ . The number of places on Phase 1 should be at least double the number required for Phase 2. This will contribute the competitive environment and ensure a sufficient candidate pool for Phase 2. It is expected that in excess of 80% of Phase 2 participants will come from the preceding Phase 1 programme. Any exception to this rule will require the prior written consent of the New Frontiers Programme Management Team. 7. A documented process for logging of all queries, applications, interviews and outputs will be maintained by the institution Phase 1 Standardisation The purpose of Phase 1 is to help the promoter determine: If his/her business idea is a viable proposition, and If he/she is ready to start a business The Phase 1 programme consists of approximately 6 weeks of training followed by a 2-4 week writing up period to produce the business case document (short feasibility) for the idea. The business case document prepares the participant and enables them to complete the Phase 2 application form comprehensively. Phase 1 should be organised as follows: Delivered evenings and/or weekends Facilitates those in full time employment 36 hours of training and guest speakers (entrepreneurs) Where practical a mid-term review (One to One) with Programme Manager to ensure that the participant is on track. New Frontiers General Guidelines page 12 of 29

13 It is an intense programme with the focus on the deliverable of a Business Case, aimed at addressing the questions in the application for Phase 2. This will assist in identifying those participants who can benefit from further investment in their project for Phase 2 participation. It sets the scene for Phase 2, which will cover the subject matter in much more detail and at a more advanced level, and will be tailored to participant needs. Phase 1 aims to challenge the promoter and provides him/her with an insight into the level of commitment required for Phase 2 participation. The Business Case Document: The purpose of preparing a business case is to establish the business rationale for undertaking the proposed project. This will allow the promoter (and those investing in the project) to evaluate the project. The elements of the Business Case to be presented will comprise: Maximum of 8 Typed Pages Executive Summary (1 page max) A clear and concise description of the product or service to be developed Research of the proposed market, IP, customers and competitors A clear pain statement as to why customers will purchase the solution Product/ Service Unique Selling Points Initial route to market assessment Identified income streams and business model Initial Financial analysis (Breakeven, level of investment required and if already raised, etc). The Promoter / Team / Advisory Panel A clear set of short term goals and milestones (six month period) to achieve product and business development. All participants completing Phase 1 will be asked to present their idea to their peers prior to applying for Phase 2. This will create a competitive environment and ensure participants recognise the challenges that accompany business start-up. Please Note: Programme Managers will attend the majority (>75%), if not all, of the Phase 1 workshops to enhance the selection process for Phase Networking Start-up companies seldom have sufficient access to the relevant networks which are key to developing their business - potential customers, partners, investors and peers. Maximising the benefits of networking will feature strongly in New Frontiers as the programme gathers momentum. From the outset of the programme there will be a clear focus on three key network groups Alumni Networking Groups Many of the most successful start-up programmes have strong and effective alumni networking groups, providing both practical advice and inspirational support to participants. A formal New Frontiers Alumni will be established by Enterprise Ireland with all previous participants from programmes invited to join. This will give current participants access to numerous companies who have travelled the path that they are currently on. This alumni group may also be a source of mentors, advisors and ambassadors for the Programme. Each Institution will be asked by Enterprise Ireland to invite their past alumni groups to join the New Frontiers alumni to form a national network New Frontiers General Guidelines page 13 of 29

14 6.7.2 Participant (Peer) Network Current participant peers are an important network and play a key role in establishing a vibrant working environment, facilitating peer-to-peer learning and creating business links that will remain long after involvement in the Programme has ceased. It is expected that each Institution will encourage peer networking within their own Institutions. Additionally, it is expected that within a consortium there will be peer networking between the two or more cohorts and that there will be at least three occasions per year where face to face meetings take place between the groups. These may occur across the 3 phases of the programme. At a regional level, it is expected that there will be networking opportunities across neighbouring Institutions. Therefore, each Institution must include in their application a schedule of engagement with other Institutions in their region covering themes relevant to participant needs. This will be important in optimal harnessing of the expertise and facilities across the host providers. National participant network events will continue to be hosted by Enterprise Ireland. Additionally, Enterprise Ireland will host regional/sector specific activities at regular intervals across the course of the Programme Programme Managers Network Applicants will be expected to continue their participation in and support of the Programme Manager s Network. This network facilitates the exchange of best practice and peer-to-peer learning which is critical to the success of the Programme. 6.8 Building Reputation - Branding & Promotion The development of a strong brand and its effective promotion are critical to ensure that the programme attracts a high number of good calibre applicants. The success of previous participants will be highlighted through case studies to strengthen credibility. These case studies will be prepared by each Institution consortium in conjunction with Enterprise Ireland. It is expected that each Institution consortium will carry out local promotion of the programme, including showcase events. 6.9 Collaboration & Consortia The application must come from a consortium, with one Institutes of Technology as lead. Institutes may apply in consortia with neighbouring Institutes or with universities Institution/Institution Consortia An Institution/Institution consortium should complete a single application form with a separate budget table for each Institution. Each application should cover the requirements below: Content & Delivery The Programme utilises a standardised programme delivery model and facilitator panel. As such, all members of an Institution/Institution consortium will use the same content, the same delivery process and the same facilitators. New Frontiers General Guidelines page 14 of 29

15 Scheduling For a programme to be considered a consortium-led programme it will typically facilitate co-location and run at least two cycles of the programme per year. The programmes in each Institution will run sequentially and each Phase 2 should have at least 3 months between start dates. Institutions/consortia should also consult with neighbouring Institutions to ensure that start dates do not overlap. Joint cohort events, including networking and training, should be included in the consortium scheduling. The application form should clearly outline the ways in which the two cohorts will act as a single group. Programme Management For each Institution/Institution consortium it is required that there will be a single programme management team in place that operates across both Institutions. This team should have a Programme Manager lead with overall responsibility for the participants in all locations/campuses and with the skills/experience required to act as an intelligent broker at the heart of the structure. It will be supported by the Incubation Centre management at a senior level and have administrative support for the day-to-day operations across the consortium Institutions. In some cases, an Auxiliary Programme Manager may be required at a local level Institution/ University Collaboration If an Institution is not in a consortium with another Institution it must enter into formal collaboration with a neighbouring university for the benefit of the programme activities Innovative Measures to Improve Participant Experience Up to 150,000 will be made available on a competitive basis to fund proposals from a number of applicants to operate enhancements that help to improve the business development environment and experience for participants in Phases 2 and / or 3. Proposals must show the benefits to participants in developing their business concept, (e.g. developing customer sales, investment, team, technology etc.) and show the contribution to the pipeline of HPSUs and of sustainable regional businesses. Applicants are asked to provide details of their proposed enhancements via the application form (section 3.6) including full costing and details of how the improvements could be verified. As the funding will be competitive, any proposals should be scalable to account for the level of funding made available to the winning proposals. It is expected that funding of between 30,000 and 70,000 may be awarded to winning proposals. Proposals will be evaluated and scored as part of the overall New Frontiers application. Final funding decision will rest with Enterprise Ireland including the right to make any or no funding award. Funding for the enhancements will be for the duration of the 5 year programme subject to the successful demonstration of the improvements at the end of the first (Phase 2/Phase 3) programme iteration. New Frontiers General Guidelines page 15 of 29

16 BUDGET & COSTING 7.1 Overview The overall programme budget per year will be at similar levels to that of the outgoing Value-for-money will underpin all funding awarded under this Call for Proposals. Programme delivery costs should be detailed and justified, and efficiency gains and cost saving initiatives should be fully explored. Costs per collaborating institution must be clearly stated. If the collaborating institute is not to receive grant monies for this project, this should be clearly stated in the application form. Applicants must provide a full and clear explanation of costs sought in the Programme Budget Section of the Application Form. Costs may be deemed ineligible for funding where detail or justification provided is insufficient. Enterprise Ireland reserves the right to engage in discussion with applicants to improve value for money and programme efficiencies, or to improve regional distribution of activity through consortia formation. 7.2 Eligible Costs Pay: All of the staff (permanent, contract, full-, and part-time) involved in the programme should be listed along with associated costs and time commitment. The salary costs of personnel may vary across programmes but it should be noted that scales must reflect experience and qualification. Employer pension contributions of 20% of gross salary only are eligible under this scheme. A revenue or government approved scheme must be in place before an application or claim for pension is considered by EI. Employer Pension contributions must be recorded separately in the application, in the contract and in any claim. Time sheets will be required on request for auditing purposes. Subcontract: Details of subcontracting costs including the use of a consultant (domain specialist, mentors, course facilitators, etc.) should be clearly outlined and justified. Consultant s tasks and deliverables including learning outputs should be agreed in writing with the host Institution and the quality of their contribution to the programme will be subject to review by Enterprise Ireland. Travel: Details of relevant travel, including the person travelling, purpose of the journey and benefit to the programme should be included. Travel and subsistence costs that relate to overseas travel must receive written prior agreement from EI. Domestic and overseas travel should be listed separately. Other Costs Details of additional costs should be clearly outlined and justified. Stipend Stipends will be dispensed monthly in arrears to each Phase 2 participant following successful bi-monthly performance reviews. Costs incurred Only costs of hot-desk space for the period of the programme as by university required by the consortium. No other costs eligible. consortium partners New Frontiers General Guidelines page 16 of 29

17 7.3 Ineligible costs Please note as a guide that the following costs are ineligible: This list is non-exhaustive. Any interests, or return on capital employed Provisions for possible future losses or charges Interest owed Provisions for doubtful debts Resources made available to a Grantee free of charge Unnecessary or ill-considered expenses Ill considered Marketing, sales and distribution costs for products and services Entertainment and hospitality expenses except such reasonable expenses accepted as wholly and exclusively necessary for carrying out the work under the Standard Grant Agreement Fees and penalties (including prompt payment interest) Recruitment costs, work permits/ visas, accommodation etc Redundancy costs Relocation costs Interview expenses Subsistence payments to visiting personnel who are not on the payroll of the Institution Protection of Intellectual property rights (separate support) Cost of courses (unless the course relates directly to the project) Membership fees (unless the membership relates directly to the project) Subscription costs (unless the subscription relates directly to the project) Office Equipment General phone charges Books (maximum of 1,500) Petty Cash Any items which are detailed as Miscellaneous or General Consultancy (EI have set a limit of 900/day inclusive of all travel and expenses) Travel & Expenses (unless destination, duration and activity is appropriate) Company start-up costs Indirect costs such as bench fees & flat rate charges Financial Ledgers: The financial ledgers for this programme must contain the following: Clear description Supplier name Category of expenditure Amount Invoice number All travel or expense claims must include the person s name, destination and reason for travelling. A pay claim must in all cases include the person s name. New Frontiers General Guidelines page 17 of 29

18 7.4 Funding Term Contracts for programme delivery will be awarded to host Institutions following successful Call outcome for a 5 year period subject to annual performance review and approval by the IRCC. The payment grant amounts to each host Institution, or consortia of such Institutions, will be dependent on satisfactory programme performance. Enterprise Ireland reserves the right to modify the programme framework and programme deliverables which may arise from the planned programme enhancements, and/or which may arise from changing market and business conditions, or regional needs, or from changes within the overall structure of the Institution sector at national or regional level. Enterprise Ireland reserves the right NOT to renew a contract at the end of a programme year if performance is not of a satisfactory level. Enterprise Ireland will engage in discussions with the programme operator prior to any such changes. The final decision on contract renewal will be taken by the relevant Enterprise Ireland committee. New Frontiers General Guidelines page 18 of 29

19 ROLE OF HOST INSTITUTION 8.1 Institutional Commitment and Delivery The host Institution(s) will be fully responsible to Enterprise Ireland for the successful operation of the programme and delivery of the targets specified in the funding contract. The Institution will reflect the importance of the New Frontiers activity through: Its provision of suitable space and resources, e.g. catering for workshops, for participants and for networking, Its integration of activity under the programme with other areas, e.g. freeing up of Institution s staff time to engage with participants, joinedup approach to the wider entrepreneurship strategy of the host Institution. Ensuring the programme benefits from the expertise available in the host Institution, and collaborating partners, and from the supportive environment of the Institution business incubation centres. Ensuring that the Programme is not in direct competition with other Institution supported initiatives. Strong promotion of the programme in line with Enterprise Ireland policy. Actively supporting the dissemination of best practice leading to continual programme development and improvement. 8.2 Course Governance and Management Host Institutions will put in place appropriate governance and management structures for the optimal implementation of the programme. Once funding has been awarded, host Institutions will promote their respective courses with the co-operation of Enterprise Ireland and within the parameters of the Programme s branding strategy (please refer to Section 9.4). The programme manager must be a permanent employee of the host Institution or a contracted employee whose contract extends for the duration of the programme. The programme manager s costed time will be 100% committed to the New Frontiers programme, and to its successful delivery and output. The host Institutions shall ensure full compliance with regulatory requirements including Data Protection and Freedom of Information. New Frontiers General Guidelines page 19 of 29

20 7. Role of Enterprise Ireland 9.1 Central Management The Programme will be centrally managed by Enterprise Ireland s Research & Innovation Business Unit. This will incorporate, inter alia, funding approvals, monitoring of programme performance, national and international marketing and promotion, national networking events. 9.2 Participant Monitoring The host Institution will work closely with Enterprise Ireland to ensure that strict and uniform standards of entry and performance will be applied to programmes across all regions. Through its Regional, HPSU and other Business Units, Enterprise Ireland will play a strong role in participant selection and their progression/continuance on the programmes. Enterprise Ireland will be informed of the initial recruitment of participants onto Phase 1 of the programme. Completed Phase 1 Application Forms for each Phase 1 applicant accepted onto Phase 1 must be submitted to the New Frontiers Programme Management Team within one week of offers of places. This should be accompanied with a spreadsheet of all Phase 1 applicants. Applications from promoters for entry onto Phase 2 will be evaluated by a fourmember group comprising the New Frontiers manager (and/or other Institution representative), EI regional director, Local Enterprise Office (LEO) manager and an independent party (e.g. member of the local business community). Participants selected onto Phase 2 will undergo bi-monthly formal performance reviews with the Institution and Enterprise Ireland (Regional Staff) which will centre on milestone delivery and stress-testing the business proposition. A participant s entry onto the programme and progress through the programme will require the approval of Enterprise Ireland. Participants who underperform and / or lack the required commitment will lose support and their place on programme. 9.3 Monitoring Programme Output and Impact While Enterprise Ireland will provide support through its expertise and international network, the host Institution will hold the prime responsibility for delivering the programme and meeting the targets and deliverables agreed in the programme contract with Enterprise Ireland. Clearly defined output metrics will form a key element of the funding contract between Enterprise Ireland and the host institution. Targets will be set against a range of indicators, including for example: o Number of companies trading successfully o Number of companies that enter the Enterprise Ireland system (e.g. as pre-hpsus, as HPSUs, etc.) o Number of companies that enter the LEO system o Funding / investment leveraged by companies o Number of persons employed by new companies o Total HPSUs o Total turnover o Total exports o Regional Impact (relative to local spend, etc) New Frontiers General Guidelines page 20 of 29

21 Enterprise Ireland will monitor programme output and performance through the host Institution s submission of regular performance reports and of any other relevant documents as may be requested from time to time to assist performance review. 9.4 Branding & Promotion Maintaining and building the reputation of the New Frontiers programme as a world-class enterprise development programme will be essential to attract high quality applicants, both at home and overseas. A marketing and promotion campaign will be run that will include: Branding strategy and guidelines for all programme promotional and media collateral used by Enterprise Ireland and host Institutions Inter-regional networking events Regional and national showcase events Ongoing marketing and promotion of the programme nationally and internationally, including online marketing. Full adherence to the branding strategy and any future modifications will be a condition of funding awarded under this Call. 9.5 Networking and National Events Enterprise Ireland will work with the host Institutions to run networking events during the course of the programme for the benefit of the participants. For example, events may be designed for entrepreneurs on a domain specialism or business topic e.g. VC funding. National events will bring together all participants from across the sectors and regions. Enterprise Ireland will continue to host a network for Institution entrepreneurship management (Incubation Centre Managers, External Services Managers, Heads of Development, etc.) to facilitate the dissemination of good practice. 9.6 Access to Enterprise Ireland s Mentor Network Phase 2 participants can avail of support through the Enterprise Ireland Mentor Network, subject to approval from New Frontiers Manager. This mentoring is subject to De Minimis Aid (EU Regulation 1998/2006), which may allow an enterprise to receive up to 200,000 De Minimis Aid over any period of three years. A mentor will help identify and overcome obstacles to business development. They will provide tailored advice, guidance and support based on the Mentor s own business experience. A mentoring assignment for the New Frontiers will consist of 5 visits from an EI Mentor over the duration of Phase 2. Additional mentor assignment may be available where justified. A short-list of Mentors will be discussed with the New Frontiers manager who will then assist in matching Mentors to their participants stated needs. More than one Mentor can be involved in an assignment if different skills are needed to overcome disparate issues. The goals and objectives of Mentor assignment will be established by the New Frontiers participant in agreement with the Mentor at the start of the assignment. A mentor panel will be convened at the end of each Phase 2 to review and advise participants on progress and future direction. All Mentors sign a strict confidentiality agreement with Enterprise Ireland (a copy of this agreement is available on the EI Corporate website). The costs incurred will be covered by Enterprise Ireland and should not be included in the Institution s budget in their application. New Frontiers General Guidelines page 21 of 29

22 APPENDIX A Participant Selection Criteria o Promoter Track record Business experience or acumen Capability have the necessary management and technical skills A suitable background which will enable the development of business with sustainable competitive advantage Potential to build a balanced team to develop the business o Credibility e.g. ability to raise development funding o Commitment, Drive & Determination of Promoter o Promoter s ability to benefit from participation on the programme o Likelihood of successfully implementation of the business plan o Quality of business idea proposed by the promoter Level of innovation / technology Market analysis Value proposition Employment Potential Growth Potential Likelihood of becoming a sustainable business (i.e. trade for > 5 years) Business concepts based on the following are not acceptable: Retail outlets and professional services, including consultancies which are not engaged in internationally traded services. Areas of enterprise which involve displacement of existing jobs or businesses including; builders, hairdressers, cafes, pubs, hotels, general printers, construction, trades etc. Conferences and Seminars Businesses which are contrary to public policy Activities that fall within gambling or "gaming" as defined in the Gaming & Lotteries Act Business projects receiving assistance from other State Agencies or EU funded Operational Programmes i.e. dual funding New Frontiers General Guidelines page 22 of 29

23 APPENDIX B Sample Participant Application Form Phase 1 New Frontiers Phase 1 Application Form This Application form should be completed as fully as possible. To ensure consistency, this document uses protected form fields which are limited in length and which allow use of plain text (i.e. no bolding, underlining, bulleting, etc.) SECTION A: APPLICANT DETAILS Applicant s Name: Address (Line 1): Address (Line 2): Address (County): Address: Telephone Number: PPS Number: Company Trading Name (if any): Web Address (or network sites, e.g. LinkedIn, Facebook, etc.) (if any): List previous State funding / support received by the applicant: List any past participation in business development programmes (State and/or private sector): If currently employed, length of resignation notice required: Preferred campus location: How did you learn of this Programme? Please select Gender (Optional) 1 Male Female Company Sector: Select Sector 1 For statistical purposes only New Frontiers General Guidelines page 23 of 29

24 SECTION B: PROPOSAL DETAILS 1. Give brief details of your career/employment history to date. Type here...(max 250 characters) 2. What has made you consider setting up your own business? Type here...(max 250 characters) 3. Give details of your proposed product/service. Type here...(max 250 characters) 4. Why do you believe you will succeed with this venture? Type here...(max 250 characters) 5. Why should you be offered a place on the New Frontiers Programme? Type here...(max 250 characters) In signing this form, the applicant grants permission for the information contained in their application to be shared with external assessors and potential mentors under nondisclosure agreements. Signature: Date Please return completed application to: Name Address Address Address New Frontiers General Guidelines page 24 of 29

25 New Frontiers Phase 2 Application Form This Application form should be completed as fully as possible. If you have a Business Plan please attach. To ensure consistency, this document uses protected form fields which are limited in length and which allow use of plain text (i.e. no bolding, underlining, bulleting, etc.) SECTION A: APPLICANT DETAILS Applicant s Name: Address (Line 1): Address (Line 2): Address (County): Address: Telephone Number: RSI Number: Company Trading Name (if any): Web Address (or network sites, e.g. LinkedIn, Facebook, etc.) (if any): List previous State funding / support received by the applicant: List any past participation in business development programmes (State and/or private sector): If currently employed, length of resignation notice required: Preferred campus location for hot desk in Incubation Centre Did you participate in Phase 1? How did you learn of this Programme? Please select Sector: Select Sector What are your Mentor requirements: Select Subject Further details: (max 200 characters) Gender (Optional) 2 Male Female SECTION B: PROPOSAL DETAILS 2 For statistical purposes only New Frontiers General Guidelines page 25 of 29