The programme is free and participants are chosen based on their application outlining their idea and why they feel so strongly about it.
Do I need to have business experience?
Absolutely not. Some participants in previous years have had significant experience and many have had zero experience. Applicants are chosen based on their passion for their idea.
When is the programme being held?
From Monday, June 19th to Friday, June 23rd between the hours of 10:00 and 18:00.
Where is the programme held?
In the amazing ATU campus in Sligo. Safe, spacious and offering the best facilities in the country, ATU gives Bright Spark participants an the optimal location to develop their business idea.
How long does the programme run for?
The programme is an intensive five day experience run from Monday to Friday between the hours of 10:00 and 18:00.
What is the purpose of the programme?
The purpose of the programme is to give teens between the ages of 14 and 17 the opportunity and skills to develop an idea they think could be a commercial success and present it to a panel of experts.
Is there an award?
Yes, applicants will receive a certificate of attendance and the overall winner(s) will win the Bright Spark Award as well as have their name(s) added to the Bright Spark perpetual trophy.
Do I have to be Irish?
No. Everyone is welcome. Previous participants have been from Ireland, France, Russia, Spain, Poland, Italy and Korea. Enthusiasm is the only passport you need!
Do I need to speak English?
Yes, you will need at least an intermediate level of English, though you don't need to be native speaker level.
I'm not very technically savvy.
You don't need to be. You just need to be motivated to learn, open to new experiences and enthusiastic at the prospect of acquiring new skills.
I'm extremely shy and I get nervous speaking in public.
It's a very common hurdle that people find a challenge, but it is a focus of the programme. A lot of previous participants have been apprehensive about speaking to a group and they found the skills training very helpful. So be brave!
Do I need to be studying business in school?
Not necessarily. Studying business might be a benefit of course, but it isn't essential. If you think your idea could work, then write up your application and convince us.
Does my application need to be fancy shmancy?
Just speak from your heart. Communicate your excitement and enthusiasm; that's all you have to do. Your idea can evolve from a caterpillar to a butterfly once you're in the programme.
Do I have to join as an individual or could I join with my friends? We have place for both the lone wolf and the team player so we can take applications from individuals, pairs or trios. If you are joining as a pair or trio, we ask that you are sure you are doing so for the right reason - ie that you are all equally enthusiastic and determined and not just tagging along for company! Each person has to make their own separate application (referring to their partners when doing so) saying what their role in the project will be. Three is the maximum allowed on one team.
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