Fingal Student Enterprise Programme 2025/26 Launches with New Sponsors and Bigger Ambitions
The Student Enterprise Programme (SEP) officially launched its 24th year at County Hall, Swords, with students from last year’s winning teams on hand to inspire the next wave of young entrepreneurs.
Organised by the Local Enterprise Office (LEO) Fingal, the programme is expected to be bigger and better than ever, with a record-breaking 28,000 second-level students nationwide anticipated to take part.
The Student Enterprise Programme gives students from 1st to 6th year the chance to set up and run their own businesses, learning vital skills in creativity, teamwork, finance, marketing and innovation. Each year, Fingal students make their mark on the national stage, with winners going on to represent the county at the National Finals.
This year also marks the exciting addition of Keoghs Crisps as a new sponsor, joining long-standing partners Simtech Aviation, One4All, and Blanchardstown Centre, helping to make the programme possible and to inspire Ireland’s next generation of business leaders.
(Left to Right: Sharon Rossignuolo, Fingal Student Enterprise Programme Co-ordinator; Oisín Geoghegan, Head of Enterprise; Angelo Cunningham, Simtech Aviation; Kim McNulty, Blanchardstown Centre; Cllr. Tom O’Leary, Mayor Of Fingal; Terry Spence, One4All; Susan Maddock, Fingal LEO; Rose McGahan, Fingal LEO.)
Speaking at the launch, the Mayor of Fingal, Cllr Tom O’Leary, said: “This programme sparks something special in young people - belief in their ideas, confidence in their ability, and the courage to take a chance. The skills they gain through the Student Enterprise Programme are not just about business; they are life skills. I’m proud to see Fingal schools leading the way and can’t wait to watch the creativity unfold this year.”
Chief Executive of Fingal County Council, AnnMarie Farrelly, added: “Supporting entrepreneurship at a young age helps develop innovation, resilience and ambition in our communities. The Student Enterprise Programme has been a cornerstone of this effort for 24 years, and we are delighted to see it continue to thrive here in Fingal.”
Head of Enterprise at LEO Fingal, Oisín Geoghegan, said: “Each year we see incredible projects tackling real-world issues - from sustainability and mental health to new technologies. Fingal students are driven to make a difference, not just a profit, and that’s what makes this programme so powerful. With Keoghs Crisps now on board, we’re entering an even stronger chapter.”
Enterprise teacher Aisling Sammon from Hansfield Educate Together Secondary School, Dublin 15, shared her perspective: “The Student Enterprise Programme is unique in how it blends learning with doing. Students see their ideas come alive, and the impact on their confidence is remarkable. It’s also a great opportunity for schools to shine a spotlight on the creativity and entrepreneurial spirit of their students.”
(Left to Right: Aisling Sammon, Oisín Geoghegan, Maida Riaz, Abi Solai, Angelin Boyce, Sharon Rossignuolo, Rose McGahan, Susan Maddock)
The SEP is run nationally by the Local Enterprise Offices, with the support of Enterprise Ireland and local authorities. It continues to be the largest enterprise education initiative in the country, empowering students to dream big, take risks and lead with confidence.
Fingal schools can sign up to participate in this year’s Student Enterprise Programme by contacting the Local Enterprise Office via email info@leo.fingal.ie.
