The Rubicon Centre

PINC is an intensive programme for female entrepreneurs, who have a business idea and want to bring it to the next level. Based in CIT’s Rubicon Centre, already home to several entrepreneurs, the unique environment allow participants the opportunity to focus on their business venture in a structured group environment, gaining invaluable knowledge on all aspects of business.

This FREE programme runs two days a week, for 8 weeks, under the guidance of an experienced Programme Manager. Over the 8 week period, participants are provided with the tools they need to grow and develop their business including; idea evaluation, business planning, market research, business funding, financial planning and business development. On a practical level, established female entrepreneurs and other people from the business community are invited to present their own stories to the group and in addition, each participant will be assigned their own mentor.

The winner of the Cork Chamber/ Vodafone Cork Company of the Year Award in the Emerging Cork Company went to Keelvar Systems, a University spinout, based in the Rubicon Centre. Keelvar helps large organisations and government bodies find cost efficiencies through smarter procurement processes. The Company's novel auction technology brings sophistication to the financial proposal stage of government tendering so that cost efficiencies are communicated and realised. Responders to tenders supported by Keelvar are invited to communicate more price data and conditional bids describing cost synergies. Keelvar’s software helps the purchaser to compute the most economically advantageous outcome.

Mr Sean Sherlock TD, Minister of State, Department of Enterprise, Jobs & Innovation and Department of Education & Skills with responsibility for Research & Innovation, launched 10 new companies at the inaugural New Frontiers Awards & Showcase, held in CIT on Monday 28 January 2013.

Congratulating the new companies, Minister Sherlock said: “Entrepreneurship is at the very heart of the Irish economy and in the challenging times we live in today, it’s imperative for our future economic growth and innovation. In this very room tonight, I have witnessed true entrepreneurial spirit and steadfast determination - people with a passion for what they believe in and a dedication to make this a reality. Such are the businesses which will shape Ireland’s future with the creation of high value and sustainable enterprises and employment opportunities. I wish you all every success as you continue to move your businesses forward and focus on the future.”