ECOS Student Initiatives -

Students Initatives

Student Initiatives

Explore Carrick-on-Suir, in partnership with LEO Tipperary’s Student Enterprise Programme, is proud to introduce The Journey of an Idea—a five-year initiative for all secondary school students in Carrick-on-Suir. Launched on 7th October with an empowering Ideas Seminar, this programme will inspire students to transform their ideas into real-life actions. Whether it’s a business, a community initiative, or a project to enhance local vibrancy, this programme guides students through every stage, from concept creation to taking the first steps in making their ideas a reality.

Our mission is to inspire youth to think creatively and act boldly for the betterment of Carrick-on-Suir and beyond. This initiative is not only about entrepreneurship but about fostering the drive to make meaningful contributions to the community. Students will learn how to spark ideas, transform them into action, and see the potential of their contributions in shaping a thriving and vibrant town.

STUDENT INFORMATION PACK

Welcome to

The Journey of an Idea

Ready to turn your ideas into reality?

Where creativity begins, community thrives.

Welcome to The Journey of an Idea!

This exciting new Student Entrepreneurial Programme is here to help you bring your innovative thoughts to life while having fun and competing with others from across Carrick-on-Suir! 💡

Explore ideas and guidance in this downloadable

Resource Pack

1. What’s This All About?

We’re on a mission to inspire you to think big, get creative, and showcase your entrepreneurial spirit! You’ll get guidance from business and social entrepreneurs, creatives, and marketing experts to help shape your ideas.

2. Who’s it for?

Every secondary school student in Carrick-on-Suir is invited to get involved—whether you’re in the junior, intermediate, or senior cycle!

3. What’s in it for you?

Explore your creativity
Learn real-world entrepreneurial skills
Win cash prizes and spot prizes 💰
Build a business that can make a difference in your community!

4. How Does It Work?

Webinars Every 2 Weeks! 🎥
Every two weeks, you’ll have access to webinars hosted by business and social entrepreneurs, creatives, and marketing experts. These sessions will give you pro tips on how to get started, market your idea, and succeed!
Student Networking Events 💬
Meet and connect with like-minded students across the region and learn how to bring your ideas to life! These networking sessions will give you the opportunity to collaborate and make valuable connections.
Interactive Support
Got a question? We’ve got answers! Submit your questions where we’ll tackle your concerns and share helpful tips with everyone.

5. Sample Ideas to Get You Started 🚀

Stuck on what to do? Here are some creative ideas you can work on (no capital needed!):

Freelance Social Media Management: Help local businesses boost their online presence.

Digital Tour Guides: Use the Explore Carrick-on-Suir Quest Map to create fun, interactive tours for tourists.

Community Storytelling Podcast: Share the unique history and stories of Carrick-on-Suir.

Pop-Up Events: Plan local festivals, student open-mic nights, or themed tours!

Content Creation: Manage social media or create blogs for local businesses or events.

6. What to Expect at the Launching Seminar 📅

We’re kicking off the programme with an exciting Launching Seminar on 7th October 2024!

Here’s what you can look forward to:

Inspiring talks from top business minds and creatives, including economist Jim Power.

Interactive Q&A sessions that are fun, dynamic, and engaging with the audience!
A chance to start shaping your business idea with real-time feedback!
Breaks for networking and brainstorming with other students.

The seminar will be live-streamed and recorded, so everyone can be inspired by the event. Each school will send 10 Junior Cycle representatives, 10 Intermediate Cycle representatives, and 10 Senior Cycle representatives to participate live.

Seminar hosted by Kirsten Mate Maher: Explore Carrick-on-Suir Social Media and Marketing Executive, Beat 102103 Presenter, 2018 Crowned Rose of Tralee, Entrepreneur

7. How to Get Involved

We’re inviting all secondary school students in Carrick-on-Suir to get involved! Each school will have a dedicated liaison tutor to guide and support you throughout the programme.

8. Prizes 🎉

The programme offers cash prizes, spot prizes, and certificates for each school! 💸. You’ll also work with community leaders to bring your ideas to life.

Junior Cycle Prize: €300 per year
Intermediate Cycle Prize: €400 per year
Senior Cycle Prize: €1000 per year

Gain valuable real-world experience, earn recognition for your innovative ideas, win awards, and make a lasting impact in your community and beyond!

9. Programme Schedule

Here’s the timeline of the events you’ll be involved in:

October 2024 – Launching Seminar in partnership with LEO Tipperary Student Enterprise Programme 2024-2025
November 2024 – Networking Events (beginning in November and running for the duration of the programme)

These networking events will provide opportunities for student-to-student, student-to-business, and student-to-organisation connections. You’ll also get to engage with town stakeholders, adding extra value to your experience!

January 2025 – Presentation of Business Ideas
April 2025 – Final Event and Awards Ceremony

Each step of the journey will help you refine your ideas, connect with mentors and stakeholders, and prepare for the final pitch!

10. Ready to Get Started?

Download the Students Entrepreneurial Handbook now for all the tips, ideas, and guidance you’ll need to create something amazing. Your Resource Pack is designed to help you build ideas and concepts throughout the programme. Use it to track your progress, jot down inspiration, and refine your business plan.