New cohort joins Ireland’s leading agri-tech innovation programme
Twelve ambitious professionals have commenced a year-long journey to transform agricultural challenges into viable commercial ventures. This specialist initiative, hosted by UCD and Teagasc, builds upon the success of previous participants who secured significant funding for their sustainable solutions.
Source:
Teagasc Agricultural News
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⏱️ 2 min read
A new group of twelve entrepreneurs has officially embarked on the third iteration of the Food and Agriculture Sustainable Technology Innovation Programme (FAST-IP). This intensive 12-month course is designed to equip mid-career professionals with the essential skills to identify, validate, and commercialise cutting-edge solutions within the agri-food sector. By fostering a needs-led approach, the programme aims to bridge the gap between academic research and market-ready business ventures.
The initiative is delivered through a strategic partnership between the UCD School of Biosystems and Food Engineering, NovaUCD, and Teagasc, operating out of the AgTechUCD Innovation Centre. The programme has already demonstrated remarkable success, with alumni teams such as Agriwave, BiCO, and Mehal securing €1.9 million in commercialisation funding from Enterprise Ireland. These projects highlight the tangible economic potential of the initiative, which is supported by the Innovators’ Initiative Programme and co-funded by the Government of Ireland and the European Union.
Throughout the year, participants will engage in immersive experiences across various agricultural environments, including farms and food processing facilities, to gain deep insights into industry challenges. Upon successful completion, they will be awarded a Graduate Diploma in Agrifood Innovation and Entrepreneurship. Those interested in joining the next intake can find further information and application guidelines on the official UCD Innovation website, with the next application window scheduled to open in early 2027.
The initiative is delivered through a strategic partnership between the UCD School of Biosystems and Food Engineering, NovaUCD, and Teagasc, operating out of the AgTechUCD Innovation Centre. The programme has already demonstrated remarkable success, with alumni teams such as Agriwave, BiCO, and Mehal securing €1.9 million in commercialisation funding from Enterprise Ireland. These projects highlight the tangible economic potential of the initiative, which is supported by the Innovators’ Initiative Programme and co-funded by the Government of Ireland and the European Union.
Throughout the year, participants will engage in immersive experiences across various agricultural environments, including farms and food processing facilities, to gain deep insights into industry challenges. Upon successful completion, they will be awarded a Graduate Diploma in Agrifood Innovation and Entrepreneurship. Those interested in joining the next intake can find further information and application guidelines on the official UCD Innovation website, with the next application window scheduled to open in early 2027.