SEAN Gallagher, one of the original panel of venture capitalists on RTE’s Dragons’ Den programme, is backing a similar initiative planned for the ITBA Expo in Goffs next month.

This week the ITBA, in partnership with Connolly’s Red Mills, announced details of a countrywide competition aimed at existing or potential thoroughbred sector businesses.

Entries are now being invited for the competition which will be judged at the ITBA Expo on January 27th. Candidates will be required to present details of their business plan and product development. The closing date is January 8th.

The competition will be divided into three categories as follows:

Award for innovative initiative/business for breeders aged under 30

Best start-up award serving the thoroughbred industry

Best established SME serving the thoroughbred industry

Identifying talent and supporting others to grow and work in ways that bring out their best is paramount to the success of individuals, businesses and our industry.

The ITBA encourage people and equine businesses to fulfil their potential and ‘ being the best that you can be’ is very much at the core of this competition.

Applicants are asked to outline in no more than 500 words their operations, success and achievements, addressing the following criteria:

  • Demonstrate use of innovation or innovative thinking or technology in driving and expanding business, giving clear business performance targets and measurement.
  • Outline the sales and marketing plan and how that has contributed to business growth.
  • Demonstrate the long-term vision for your company outlining strategy and business model for sustainable business growth.

    • ITBA EXPO

    At least one entrant in each category will be invited to make a presentation at the ITBA Expo on January 27th in front of a panel of entrepreneurs and executives from the business world.

    There will be prizes and mentoring for each category winner and the overall winner.

    ITBA CEO Shane O’Dwyer said: “This initiative gives a unique opportunity for exhibitors and the wider bloodstock community to make a pitch in front of a panel of expert ‘dragons’.

    “We are delighted to have the expertise of Sean Gallagher on board and look forward to announcing other big names in the coming weeks. It is important we embrace technology and nurture future leaders. This is a tremendous opportunity for all to get involved in something really exciting.”

    Further information and application forms are available from Isabelle Crosse on icrosse@itba.ie