Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald has encouraged people to apply for the Self Employment for Persons with Disabilities Programme, describing it as the only customised entrepreneurship programme for people with disabilities available in Ireland.

Hosted and delivered by TU Dublin, the programme aims to remove barriers by equipping disabled people with the skills and support needed to develop as entrepreneurs.

Introduced in Northern Ireland for the first time in 2025 through a collaboration between the Department for the Economy, Go Succeed and Disability Action, the initiative is now entering its second year here.

The Minister said: "I am delighted that, following a very successful first year of operating in the north, applications are now open for a second intake of this important programme.

"End of course feedback for this programme is incredibly positive, with 100% of students stating they would recommend it. It is the only customised entrepreneurship programme for people with disabilities available in Ireland, directly addressing the unique and often overlooked challenges that disabled entrepreneurs face on their journey to business ownership." The programme is open to disabled people — including those with visible, invisible, sensory, learning, mental health or neurodivergent conditions — who want to start their own business. It is designed for those at an early stage of developing an idea. Weekly online lectures run for 12 weeks from September to December, and participants have the opportunity to gain an accredited award. Fully funded by AIB, it is free to take part.

Applications are open now until 17 July 2026, with selection based solely on the quality of the business idea.

Thomas Cooney, Course Director, said: "We have seen over five years what this programme does for people — it opens doors that many participants never believed were open to them. Launching here at Stormont in our second year of welcoming applicants from Northern Ireland sends a clear message: wherever you live on this island, and whatever barriers you face, your business idea deserves a chance."

Further information, including how to apply, is available via the TU Dublin website

.