AIB and TU Dublin Self-Employment for Persons with Disabilities Programme 2025
Technological University Dublin (TU Dublin) is delighted to announce the launch of an exciting new All-Island online course for persons with disabilities who wish to start their own business. Beginning on 17 September 17th, 2025, the course will run online every Wednesday from 11:00 to 13:00 for 12 weeks.
Thanks to the generous support of AIB, the course is free of charge for all successful applicants.
Open to individuals who self-identify as having a disability and reside anywhere on the island of Ireland, the course offers a unique opportunity to explore entrepreneurship in an inclusive and supportive environment.
Developed and delivered by TU Dublin through the University’s Continuing Professional Development (CPD) programme, this course was co-founded and is proudly supported by the Open Doors Initiative. It is designed specifically for those who have not yet started a business but have a clear business idea they would like to evaluate and potentially launch.
Key Course Highlights Include:
- 12 interactive online sessions with access to recorded lectures and digital resources
- Guest speakers from across Ireland, including role models and subject experts
- Use of SimVenture Validate to develop entrepreneurial ideas
- Access to TU Dublin’s full range of student supports and resources
- Individual business mentoring for all participants
- Award of 5 ECTS credits at NFQ Level 6 upon successful completion
Topics Covered:
- Challenges facing entrepreneurs with disabilities
- Business idea validation and customer engagement
- Business idea validation and customer engagement
- Developing financial projections and legal considerations
- Balancing entrepreneurship with personal well-being
- Creating and presenting a business plan
·Applications are now open and must be submitted by Thursday, 31 July 2025. There are 20 places available, and selection will be based on a two-stage application process, beginning with a 500-word written, audio, or video summary of the applicant’s business idea.
Professor Thomas Cooney, Director of the course and Professor of Entrepreneurship at Technological University Dublin, explains:
“This course is about breaking down barriers and ensuring that everyone, regardless of ability, has access to the skills and support needed to become successful entrepreneurs. The success stories we’ve witnessed so far are proof that innovation and determination know no limits.”
Eligibility Criteria:
- Must reside in Northern Ireland or the Republic of Ireland
- Must self-identify as having a disability
- Must have a business idea (but not an existing business)
This initiative is made possible through collaboration with key partners, including the Department of the Economy (NI), Go Succeed, Disability Action, Local Enterprise Office (ROI), and the Open Doors Initiative.
To apply, please complete the Application Form by Thursday, 31 July, 2025.
