Joe Kennedy III and Ulster University launch female entrepreneurship program

US Special Envoy to Northern Ireland Joe Kennedy III launched a female entrepreneurship program with Ulster University at a special event held in Belfast on Wednesday, October 2.

Applications are now open for Connect to Success (C2S), which aims to empower women entrepreneurs, bolster the regional economy, and advance gender equality in Northern Ireland.

C2S sets itself apart from other women’s entrepreneurial programmes in Northern Ireland by offering selected WOBs unparalleled access to global corporations and their international networks, a comprehensive team-based mentoring approach, and a targeted focus on women-owned businesses (WOBs) in the scale-up phase.

C2S pairs 10-15 WOBS with teams of executives from some of the world’s top multinational corporations. These mentoring teams will provide expert guidance to help shape and implement the long-term business and leadership strategies of the participating WOBs.

The year-long mentoring program is scheduled to commence in January 2025.

C2S's mentoring champions include industry giants such as Aflac, AIG, Coca-Cola, Goldman Sachs, Google, Irish Life Group, Kainos, KPMG, PwC, Seagate, and Stripe, Inc. Additional supporters of the C2S initiative include AwakenAngels, Catalyst, Cliste Hospitality, Endeavor Ireland, Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce, Ormeau Labs, and Ulster Bank.

“Empowering women in business isn't just a local effort; it's a global game-changer. Whether it’s in Belfast or in Boston, we need more women-led enterprises and more female investors," Kennedy said.

"By championing women entrepreneurs, Connect To Success, Ulster University, and their partner companies are igniting economic growth, driving social progress, and paving the way for a more inclusive and prosperous Northern Ireland."

US Special Envoy to Northern Ireland for Economic Affairs, Joe Kennedy III launches the Connect to Success programme from Ulster University. CREDIT: Kelvin Boyes/PressEye

Attending the event, making keynote speeches, and supporting the launch of the initiative were the First and Deputy First Ministers of Northern Ireland.

“The Connect to Success scheme is designed to empower women entrepreneurs and equip them with the tools they need to succeed in their business ventures," said First Minister, Michelle O'Neill.

"Female entrepreneurs make a really valuable contribution to our economy and it is encouraging to see how this initiative is supporting them.

"As an Executive, we recognise the importance of creating an environment where women are encouraged, supported, and valued equally in their careers."

Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly added: “It is fantastic to see so many leading global companies involved and I have no doubt the initiative will equip those involved with the skills, training and support they need to realize their full potential and make a real difference.”

Kim Sawyer, Executive Director of Connect to Success, said: “This initiative goes beyond business growth; it's about empowering women, fostering cross-community collaboration, and breaking down barriers that have traditionally limited women’s access to capital, markets, and networking.

"By connecting women entrepreneurs with mentors from some of the world's most successful companies, we aim to equip them with the skills, connections, and confidence needed to elevate their businesses and pay forward the opportunities they've received.

“Moreover, the program offers C2S mentors from global corporations a unique perspective on the entrepreneurial mindset of SMEs, enriching their understanding of agility, innovation, and risk-taking.

"This experience not only sharpens their leadership abilities but also sparks creative thinking and opens doors to new partnerships and ventures.”

Ulster University Vice Chancellor Professor Paul Bartholomew said: "At Ulster University, we are active and vocal champions of the development of female entrepreneurship and are deeply committed to helping women build and scale successful businesses.

"In partnership with Connect to Success, we can create a future where women-owned businesses are at the forefront of innovation, corporate success and regional economic prosperity.

New to Northern Ireland, C2SNI follows C2SPortugal, which supported over 1,100 women-owned businesses via 128 corporate mentoring teams from leading global companies, with mentoring from companies including L’Oréal, McDonalds, Microsoft and Nestlé. 

How to Apply

Applications open Wednesday, October 2 and close Monday, October 21, with selected WOBs to be publicly announced in November 2024.

More details and applicant requirements can be found here.