At an Oct. 2 event in Belfast, Joe Kennedy III, US Special Envoy to Northern Ireland for Economic Affairs, announced that applications are now open for Connect to Success (C2S), a program powered and implemented by Ulster University. This initiative aims to empower women entrepreneurs, bolster the regional economy, and advance gender equality in Northern Ireland.

“Empowering women in business isn’t just a local effort; it’s a global game-changer,” Kennedy said. “Whether it’s in Belfast or in Boston, we need more women-led enterprises and more female investors. By championing women entrepreneurs, Connect To Success, Ulster University, and their partner companies are igniting economic growth, driving social progress, and paving the way for a more inclusive and prosperous Northern Ireland.”

Attending the event, making keynote speeches and supporting the launch of the initiative were First Minister Michelle O’Neill and Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly. Said O’Neill:

“The Connect to Success scheme is designed to empower women entrepreneurs and equip them with the tools they need to succeed in their business ventures. Female entrepreneurs make a really valuable contribution to our economy and it is encouraging to see how this initiative is supporting them. As an executive, we recognize the importance of creating an environment where women are encouraged, supported, and valued equally in their careers.”

C2S sets itself apart from other women’s entrepreneurial programs in Northern Ireland by offering selected WOBs unparalleled access to global corporations and their international networks, a comprehensive team-based mentoring approach, and a targeted focus on women-owned businesses (WOBs) in the scale-up phase.

C2S pairs 10-15 WOBS with teams of executives from some of the world’s top multinational corporations. These mentoring teams will provide expert guidance to help shape and implement the long-term business and leadership strategies of the participating WOBs. The year-long mentoring program is scheduled to commence in January 2025.

C2S’s mentoring champions include industry giants such as Aflac, AIG, Coca-Cola, Goldman Sachs, Google, Irish Life Group, Kainos, KPMG, PwC, Seagate, and Stripe, Inc. Additional supporters of the C2S initiative include AwakenAngels, Catalyst, Cliste Hospitality, Endeavor Ireland, Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce, Ormeau Labs, and Ulster Bank.