Graduate Programme Supports New Entrepreneurs in Northern Ireland

Invest Northern Ireland has launched the ‘From Student to First Sale’ programme, offering financial support to encourage recent graduates to transition into self-employment.

The programme provides grants of up to £15,000 in the form of salary subvention. Eligible applicants must have graduated within the past six months and be working with university or students’ union enterprise support services.

To qualify, applicants’ business ideas must meet Invest NI’s criteria for a start-up, including achieving a turnover of £250,000 per annum within five years and generating at least 25% of sales outside Northern Ireland.

The initiative is designed to support new entrepreneurs in building viable, export-focused businesses.

Funding is available on a rolling basis, and graduates are encouraged to apply when ready.

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