Minister Encourages Applications to TU Dublin Business Start-Up Programme for People with Disabilities
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Northern Ireland's Minister for the Economy, Dr Caoimhe Archibald, has encouraged people with disabilities to apply for the AIB and TU Dublin Self-Employment for Persons with Disabilities Programme, the only customised entrepreneurship programme for people with disabilities available on the island of Ireland.
Hosted and delivered by TU Dublin, the programme supports aspiring entrepreneurs with disabilities to develop the skills, confidence and knowledge needed to start and grow their own businesses.
The programme was introduced in Northern Ireland for the first time in 2025 through a collaboration between the Department for the Economy, Go Succeed and Disability Action. Following a highly successful first year, applications are now open for a second intake.
Speaking at the launch, Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald said:
“I am delighted that, following a very successful first year of operating in the north, applications are now open for a second intake of this important programme.
“End of course feedback for this programme is incredibly positive, with 100% of students stating they would recommend it. It is the only customised entrepreneurship programme for people with disabilities available in Ireland, directly addressing the unique and often overlooked challenges that disabled entrepreneurs face on their journey to business ownership.”
The programme is open to people with disabilities, including those with visible and invisible disabilities, sensory impairments, learning disabilities, mental health conditions and neurodivergent conditions. It is specifically designed for individuals at the early stages of developing a business idea.
Participants will take part in weekly online lectures over a 12-week period from September to December 2026. On completion, participants will have the opportunity to receive an accredited award. Thanks to funding from AIB, the programme is provided free of charge to all successful applicants.
Professor Thomas Cooney, Course Director at TU Dublin, said:
“We have seen over five years what this programme does for people - it opens doors that many participants never believed were open to them.
“Launching here at Stormont in our second year of welcoming applicants from Northern Ireland sends a clear message: wherever you live on this island, and whatever barriers you face, your business idea deserves a chance.”
Applications are open until 17 July 2026, with successful applicants selected solely on the quality of their business idea.
Further information about the programme, eligibility criteria and the application process is available on the TU Dublin website.