Dragon's Den comes to Roscommon

Roscommon’s own version of Dragon’s Den is coming to town, led by renowned RTE Dragon, Bobby Kerr. Taking place at the end of September, participants with new business ideas will have the opportunity to present their proposals to a panel of experts.

This initiative is part of Roscommon LEADER Partnership’s Enterprise Creation and Development Measure, aimed at encouraging and supporting rural enterprise in the county. Eligible projects will benefit from constructive feedback from the expert panel, along with follow-up advice and support with business planning and preparing funding applications to Roscommon LEADER Partnership. Up to €150,000 of non-refundable grant aid may be available for eligible projects. In exceptional circumstances this may be raised to €200,000 subject to Department approval. Additionally, successful proposals may have the opportunity to access private investment, particularly through Business Angel Partnership, which will also be represented on the expert panel.

All eligible participants, including those with new business ideas as well as those considering innovative expansion of their existing enterprises, will have the opportunity to present their business idea to a panel of experts, led by renowned Dragon Bobby Kerr. Bobby has a particular affinity with Co. Roscommon through his investment in the infamous ‘illuminated handbag’ project as depicted on RTE’s Dragons Den. Along with the direct feedback and assistance available, projects will also be signposted to other possible sources of support, such as Roscommon Innovation House, Innovation Vouchers through Enterprise Ireland and the WIN Atlantic programme to explore international opportunities that may exist. This initiative builds on other recent initiatives aimed at encouraging and assisting new enterprises in the county, including Roscommon Enterprise and Innovation week and Roscommon Innovation House, developed in association with Roscommon County Enterprise Board.

The Dragon’s Den event is co-ordinated by WESTBIC on behalf of Roscommon LEADER Partnership. Potential participants should contact James Donlon at WESTBIC on 090 6625196 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it for further information. Places are limited so participants are advised to contact WESTBIC as soon as possible.