FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Why was The Journey of an Idea created?
It was created to help students like you come up with cool ideas and turn them into real projects that could improve your town, Carrick-on-Suir. With the help of the Student Enterprise Programme, you’ll get the tools and support you need to make your ideas happen.

What’s going to happen at the Ideas Seminar on October 7th?
At the seminar, you’ll learn how to come up with awesome ideas, hear from people who’ve done it before, and get tips on how to bring your ideas to life. You’ll also meet inspiring speakers who will share their success stories and motivate you to get started.

What kinds of projects can we work on?
You could start a small business, create a project that helps people in your community, or even come up with something fun that makes Carrick-on-Suir a more exciting place to live. It’s totally up to you!

Where can I download the Student Resource Pack?

Explore ideas and guidance in this downloadable Resource Pack here.

How will this programme help the town of Carrick-on-Suir?
Your projects could make the town a better, more vibrant place to live. Whether it’s through a business idea or a community project, what you create could make a real difference and bring new energy to the town.

How will the programme help us turn our ideas into real projects?
You’ll get help from mentors, attend workshops, and learn step-by-step how to turn your ideas into something real. You’ll have access to resources, tools, and experts who will guide you through the whole process.

What support will we get during the five-year programme?
Over the next five years, you’ll get access to workshops, planning tools, and one-on-one help from mentors. These mentors are people who know a lot about starting businesses and helping the community, and they’ll help you with your project.

How does the programme help us think like entrepreneurs and get involved in the community?
The programme teaches you how to think like a businessperson or leader, but also shows you how your ideas can help the community. You’ll learn how to solve problems and make a positive impact on the people around you.

What’s the main goal of The Journey of an Idea?
The goal is to help you and other students learn how to take action on your ideas, while also making Carrick-on-Suir a better place. In the long run, it will help create a future where young people like you are making big changes in your town.

Can we work on projects with friends, or do we have to work alone?
You can totally work with your friends! Teamwork is encouraged, but if you want to do a project on your own, that’s fine too. Both options are welcome.

How will the programme check if our projects are successful?
Success will be measured by how much progress you make and how your project helps the town. You’ll get feedback from your mentors and the community to see how your project is making a difference.

Why is creativity important in this programme?
Creativity is key! You’ll be encouraged to think outside the box and come up with unique ideas. Workshops will help you come up with original solutions to problems and make your project stand out.

How can local businesses and the community help us with our projects?
Local businesses and people in the community can help by giving advice, offering resources, or even sponsoring your project. They might also give you a chance to showcase your work at local events or provide a platform for your ideas.

What challenges might we face, and how will the programme help?
You might run into problems like finding money or knowing how to get started. The programme will help by giving you access to funding options, providing step-by-step guides, and connecting you with people who can help you overcome these challenges.

Will we get a chance to show our ideas to the community?
Yes! You’ll have opportunities to present your projects at local events, competitions, and showcases. The community will get to see what you’re working on, and you might even get media attention for your efforts.

How does this programme fit with other efforts to support young people in Tipperary?
It’s part of a bigger plan to help young people like you learn new skills and make a difference in your community. By helping you start your own projects, it supports the region’s goal of creating a bright future for everyone.

What about the 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!

What are the 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.

Where can I ask questions?

Submit your questions below where we’ll tackle your concerns and get back to you!

Can I share my tips?

Please go here to share helpful tips with everyone.

Do you have any suggestions of how to get 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.

Send us questions or comments about the programme, the speakers, or your business idea.

ASK A QUESTION

Welcome to

The Journey of an Idea

Ready to turn your ideas into reality?

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.
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