SPORT TO START-UP PROGRAMME - ONLINE
The Sport to Start-Up programme supports full-time sportspeople who want to explore entrepreneurship, develop a business idea or prepare for life beyond sport.
Delivered by the Local Enterprise Offices and Enterprise Ireland in partnership with Sport Ireland, the programme helps athletes apply the skills they use every day — discipline, resilience, leadership, focus and performing under pressure — to starting and growing a business.
WHY TAKE PART?
Whether you already have an idea, are considering self-employment, want to build an additional income stream or are planning your next move after sport, this programme gives you the structure, tools and expert support to take the next step with confidence.
WHAT YOU WILL GAIN
- Practical guidance to test, shape and develop your business idea.
- Support to build a realistic business plan.
- Tools for market research, finance, sales and marketing.
- One-to-one mentoring matched to your idea or stage of development.
- Peer learning and networking with other athletes and entrepreneurs.
- Access to Local Enterprise Office supports for your next steps.
PROGRAMME FORMAT
Sport to Start-Up is based on the Local Enterprise Offices Start Your Own Business programme and is tailored for high-performance athletes. It is delivered fully online over approximately 3 months, with weekly evening sessions, mentoring, breakout discussions and independent work between sessions.
MODULES INCLUDE
Starting your business idea; understanding your target market; tax, law, HR and insurance; financial planning, pricing and costing; sources of funding; promoting your business; smart tools and technology; sales and service; networking; basic bookkeeping; and developing your business plan.
WHO CAN APPLY?
- Be an active participant in a sport recognised by Sport Ireland - https://www.irishsport.ie/ngbs//
- Have taken part in this sport at a competitive level within the last 12 months.
- Be 18 years old on 1st June 2026.
- Currently compete at a high performance level in their sport, such as, but not necessarily limited to: Olympic and Paralympic sports / Sport Ireland recognised sports at international level; soccer in the League of Ireland and/or internationally; rugby inter-provincially and/or internationally; or Gaelic Games at inter-county level.
VALUE, COST AND BOOKING
The programme is valued at €1,600 per participant.
Thanks to the support of the Local Enterprise Offices, Enterprise Ireland and Sport Ireland, the participant cost is €100.
Book your place: Book here
Next programme starts Wednesday, 11th November 2026. Sessions take place online every Wednesday evening at 6.30pm for 3 hours.
If you would like more information on the programme please don’t hesitate to contact, Declan Lee at Declan.Lee@enterprise-ireland.com, or Eoin Rheinisch Erheinisch@instituteofsport.ie or contact your Player / Athlete Development Representative.
Sport to Start Up - James Madden
