The Irish Software Association (ISA) and the Irish Venture Capital Association (IVCA) have invited Irish software SMEs to apply to showcase their businesses to Ireland’s leading venture capitalists at the ISA’s fourth software investor forum.
Shortlisted companies will have the opportunity to present their ideas and businesses to a panel of Ireland’s top venture capitalists on 10 May.
“With over €1bn worth of software exports every year, Ireland is fast becoming an international hub for digital innovation,” said ISA director Paul Sweetman.
“This forum provides start-up technology firms with the opportunity to secure the funding they need to reach their full potential. Despite the current difficult economic climate, significant opportunities remain in the software sector.”
IVCA director general Regina Breheny said members of the IVCA have €700m to invest over the next few years. They have already invested €1bn in Ireland over the last 10 years.
“This type of engagement encourages the development of the high-tech indigenous SME sector, which we believe is essential to put Ireland’s economic path back onto a growth trajectory. This is the event to attend in the venture capital calendar,” Sweetman said.
As one of six shortlisted companies for the November software investor forum last year, Brendan O’Brien, CEO of Thinksmart Technologies, said: “The forum gave us the valuable opportunity to refine our pitch in front of an experienced team. We have taken on board the insightful advice we received, and I would recommend it to any young company looking to raise outside investment.”
The ISA software investor forum is open to all SME and start-up software and technology companies.
The deadline for applications this year is Friday, 22 April.
