By Business & Finance 
Eight technology start-up companies are commencing six months of intensive business development as part of Bank of Ireland’s StartLab Galway.
StartLab Galway an incubator programme for innovative tech businesses aiming to develop entrepreneurial activity in the west of Ireland.
Based in a custom-designed Bank of Ireland building on Eyre Square, the eight companies will benefit from a range of complementary facilities including desk space, high-speed wi-fi, conference rooms and as one-to-one sessions with key coaches and mentors.
The companies will embark on a six-month curriculum which includes sessions on business model validation, lean methodology, building strategic partnerships and stress-testing the product.
David Tighe, head of Innovation, Bank of Ireland, said: “StartLab and its customised programmes will focus on helping these businesses to develop their teams, fine-tune their ideas and engage potential customers and investors.”
He continued: “Supporting and empowering start-ups is at the heart of Bank of Ireland’s enterprise ethos and we look forward to working with our technology entrepreneurs over the coming months.”
The first StartLab represents a diverse cross-section of technologies and entrepreneurs:
- Birdleaf – turning email addresses into insights to increase return on investment in marketing
- Howling Hamster – producers of video games for PC, Mac and Linux for international sales and distribution
- Couture Intel – a luxury fashion price comparison site
- WoofAdvisor – helping pet lovers find 100% verified pet-friendly accommodation, amenities and services
- ExerWise – a wearable activity tracker for children
- MintTek Circuits – provides a new way to source hardware prototype requirements
- Bluedrop Medical – develops technology capable of remotely detecting and monitoring foot ulcers in patients with diabetes
- BuilderEngine – an innovative new platform for people who want to create smarter websites
