The Western Development Commission, alongside its counterparts across the Celtic nations, has launched the Interceltic Startup Challenge 2025, a new initiative aimed at accelerating innovation and cross-border collaboration between startups in Ireland, Scotland, Wales, Brittany, Cornwall, and the Isle of Man.
As a founding partner of the Interceltic Forum, with events held to date in Lorient, Galway, Cardiff, and most recently Cornwall, connecting investors, startups and economic development agencies, this Challenge marks a natural evolution. It offers emerging companies a new opportunity to explore partnerships and market entry across the Celtic arc.
While the Western Development Commission’s Evergreen Investment Fund supports scaling companies across the West and Northwest of Ireland, this competition is designed to support earlier-stage startups with ambition to grow internationally and a focus on solving shared challenges across the regions.
The Challenge will spotlight scalable startups in sectors such as AI applied to renewables, smart blue economy, creative industries, fintech, life sciences, and other high-impact fields. One standout startup from each region will be selected for a tailored support package and the chance to showcase at the Interceltic Business Forum in Lorient, France, from August 4th to 6th, 2025.
The Western Development Commission is now calling on startups from across the West of Ireland, from Donegal to Clare, to apply. Whether you are an early-stage company exploring international markets or a founder looking to connect with peers and investors across the Celtic nations, this is a unique opportunity to accelerate your journey.
What’s on offer for the selected startups:
- Fully funded travel to present at the Interceltic Business Forum
- Soft landing support in another Celtic market
- Legal and IP advice to support innovation and market entry
- Branding, marketing, and investment readiness coaching
- Free workspace at leading innovation hubs
- Curated investor introductions and international networking
- Media exposure and access to pilot opportunities
- Access to Ireland’s Connected Hubs network, with the Western Development Commission offering workspace and support for visiting startups across the West
Allan Mulrooney, CEO of the Western Development Commission, said:
“This Challenge reflects a broader ambition to connect the West of Ireland with likeminded regions internationally. Our forthcoming strategy sets out a clear direction, partnering with those in Ireland and abroad to support the growth of our region. By backing shared innovation and identity, this initiative offers startups a unique platform to build globally from a strong local base.”
Charles Kergaravat, Founder of the Interceltic Business Forum, added:
“This isn’t just about startups. It’s about shaping a future where the Celtic nations work together to compete globally. The Interceltic Startup Challenge is building economic connections rooted in culture, creativity, and trust.”
The Challenge, launched in Cornwall on April 25th, is open for applications until June 21st. One finalist will be chosen from each Celtic nation to travel to Lorient this August to pitch to investors, form partnerships, and explore new growth opportunities.
For more information or to apply, visit:
https://www.intercelticforum.com/awards
