A new business support programme specifically designed for people with disabilities has opened applications in Northern Ireland for the first time.

The "Self Employment for Persons with Disabilities Programme," hosted and delivered by TU Dublin, aims to break down barriers and equip disabled individuals with the necessary skills and support to become successful entrepreneurs.

The programme's expansion to Northern Ireland is a result of a collaboration between the Department for the Economy, Go Succeed, and Disability Action.

Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald highlighted the unique nature of the initiative: "This is the only customised entrepreneurship programme for people with disabilities available in Ireland. It directly addresses the unique and often overlooked challenges that disabled entrepreneurs face on their journey to business ownership."

Minister Archibald noted the programme's proven success in the Republic of Ireland. "The programme has already seen remarkable success in the south, with many participants having already begun the journey of launching their own start-ups, underscoring the importance of programmes like this in making entrepreneurship accessible to all. Indeed over 90% of participants each year state that they feel more empowered to re-enter the labour market after completing the programme," she added.

The programme is open to individuals with disabilities, including those with visible, invisible, sensory, learning, mental health, or neurodivergent conditions, who are in the early stages of developing a business idea. The 12-week online course will run from September to December, with weekly lectures. Participants also have the opportunity to receive an accredited award upon completion.

The programme is fully funded by AIB, making it free for all participants.

Marty McLoughlin, Employment and Skills Services Manager at Disability Action, welcomed the development. "This course is a hugely welcome development for our sector. It offers practical, tailored support that empowers disabled people to take real steps toward self-employment – something we know many have the ambition and potential to achieve," he said.

Given that the programme is significantly oversubscribed each year, early applications are advised. Successful applicants will be selected based solely on the quality of their business idea. The deadline for applications is July 31, 2025.

More information on the entrepreneurship programme is available on the TU Dublin website.