This year’s Patch cohort showcases projects that prioritise social impact, healthcare innovation, and sustainable solutions.
Youth start-up accelerator Patch has revealed that women make up 46% of this year’s 31-strong cohort, the highest number in the programme’s five-year history.
The accelerator, which began on 5 July, is supported by Stripe, NDRC, and Dogpatch Labs.
“As someone who has participated in Patch myself, I know first-hand the dedication required and world-class support you get as a young entrepreneur – it’s invaluable to growing an idea in your phone notes, to something impactful”
Patch has also witnessed an increase in participation from across the country this year, with over 60% of participants coming from outside the Dublin Area, and Munster-natives accounting for one-quarter of the cohort.
Making an impact
This year’s cohort showcases projects that prioritise social impact, healthcare innovation, and sustainable solutions. It stands out as the most globally diverse and inclusive group to date with a range of projects building on the latest technology to drive change and innovation.
Patch mentor Andreea Wade, Vice President of enterprise recruiting software iCIMS said: “Being part of this extraordinary programme that cultivates young minds to instigate enduring social change is truly incredible. The opportunity to witness firsthand the passion and talent that these young participants exhibit at such a pivotal point in their lives is deeply inspiring. As a mentor, I’ve realised it’s more than just guiding them – it’s about giving back, investing in the future, fostering new leaders.”
The cohort will also travel to London to learn about the fields of AI, venture capital and financial services. While there, they will visit the offices of industry giants such as Stability AI and Jane Street Capital to learn more about their work and how they can apply these skills to their own projects.
Patch alumni also achieved remarkable success at this year’s BT Young Scientist competition, securing eight prizes. Previous alumni include Mícheal McLaughlan, co-founder of Agtech firm CropSafe which recently raised $3m, and Diana Hrisovescu, who received the O’Shaughnessy Fellowship Grant worth $100,000 to develop Script – software which enables individuals to access government forms in their native language.
“We are proud to operate as a non-profit organisation, generously supported by donors who recognise the significance of investing in the next generation of innovators,” explained Jack O’Regan Kenny, managing director of Patch.
“This backing allows Patch to provide invaluable resources, mentorship, and guidance to young talent who are keen to make a difference in their communities and beyond.
“As someone who has participated in Patch myself, I know first-hand the dedication required and world-class support you get as a young entrepreneur – it’s invaluable to growing an idea in your phone notes, to something impactful.”
