Overview
The Entrepreneurship Equity Workshop is designed to address the unique challenges faced by entrepreneurs from underrepresented communities. This interactive and impactful event aims to foster inclusive discussions, develop actionable insights, and pave the way for more equitable opportunities in the entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Through open dialogue and collaborative brainstorming, participants will identify barriers, explore solutions, and contribute to a comprehensive report that will inform future policies and initiatives led by the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration, and Youth.
Workshop Objectives
- Understand Challenges: Discuss and document the systemic and individual obstacles that hinder underrepresented entrepreneurs.
- Share Insights: Facilitate the exchange of experiences and strategies among participants.
- Empower Entrepreneurs: Provide practical advice on accessing funding, resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities.
- Shape Policy: Contribute to a report for the Department to drive meaningful policy changes.
Workshop Details
Date: March 15, 2025
Location: Dublin
Time: 10.00am to 4.00pm
Audience: Entrepreneurs, advocates, policymakers, and support organisations from diverse backgrounds.
Programme
- Welcome and Opening Remarks:
Overview of workshop goals and agenda.
- Keynote Address:
Inspirational talk by a successful entrepreneur from an underrepresented community.
- Panel Discussion:
Expert-led discussion on barriers to equity and solutions in entrepreneurship. Focus on access to capital, mentorship, and systemic challenges.
- Design Thinking Exercise:
Hands-on session with activities like Empathy Mapping and Crazy 8s. Participants collaboratively brainstorm solutions to real-world challenges.
- Breakout Sessions:
Focused group discussions on specific topics:
- Funding and Financial Resources
- Networking and Mentorship
- Policy Barriers and Opportunities
- Building Inclusive Support Systems
- Lunch and Networking:
Opportunity to connect with peers, mentors, and stakeholders.
- Collaborative Workshop:
Teams develop actionable strategies and recommendations. Outcomes from the Design Thinking session are integrated into the discussions. Facilitators document insights for a final report.
- Closing Session:
Summary of breakout session outcomes. Final remarks and next steps, including report publication timeline.
Outcomes
- A comprehensive report capturing participants' experiences and recommendations to guide policy development.
- Access to practical tools, resources, and networks to support entrepreneurial success.
- Strengthened connections among participants and stakeholders.