NDRC

The NDRC Accelerator combines the speed of a VC fund with the support and platform of an accelerator. It offers founder-friendly investment with highly personalized mentoring from over 40 proven entrepreneurs and dedicated Entrepreneurs in Residence. Value-adds include tailored supports, investor lunches, 12 months free office space at Dogpatch Labs, €500k in software perks, post-accelerator support, and international passporting which provides access to a global network of 50+ startup hubs and free hot-desking space in major cities. The program culminates in an in-person, closed-door Demo Day for exposure to investors. Investment is €100k per startup using a 'founder friendly' uncapped SAFE with a 20% discount, divided into two installments (€50k at the start, €50k upon completion of a goal). It operates in a hybrid fashion, with 3 “core” weeks on-site at Dogpatch Labs in Dublin and the rest virtually. NDRC is looking for founders building global solutions, typically at the pre-seed investment stage, developing or testing an early product/MVP with some early proof-points, and with a team possessing unique insights or competency in their domain. Non-Irish startups can apply if they have a strong intent to relocate to or incorporate in Ireland.

This fully virtual, 6-week programme is designed to help founders validate their idea, refine their pitch, and connect with an incredible network of fellow founders. It provides a structured syllabus, mentors tailored to needs, and speakers who share insights. Weekly sessions cover customer development, product roadmap, pitch refinement, crafting a compelling narrative, market validation, go-to-market strategies, financial modeling & market sizing, and understanding funding options. The program includes Fireside Chats, Mentoring, weekly Check-Ins with regional team leads, Workshops, and Breakout Sessions. It culminates in a Showcase Day where founders pitch their ideas to investors and entrepreneurs. The program is free of cost and does not provide funding directly but prepares startups for funding conversations and accelerator applications. Eligibility requires the company or at least one co-founder to be based in Ireland, with technology at the core of its solutions, and activities must not relate to gambling, adult entertainment, tobacco, or military sectors. The majority of the program is delivered virtually, but there are three in-person sessions (a cohort kick-off, a midpoint meetup, and a Showcase Day watch party) held at the lead hub.