THE BOLTON TRUST

The Bolton Trust is an independent voluntary trust dedicated to nurturing new business enterprise across Ireland. Founded in 1987 by staff of TU Dublin (formerly Dublin Institute of Technology), the Trust now boasts over 150 members and works closely with students, start-ups and established companies to create sustainable, growth-focused ventures.

Its flagship programmes include the Bolton Trust/TU Dublin Student Enterprise Competition - the country's largest third-level enterprise contest - which runs twice a year and offers prize funds of up to €8 000, as well as the Angel Fund, providing up to €25 000 in early-stage investment for promising tech start-ups. Since 2003 the Trust has also delivered annual Innovation Awards, supporting start-ups seeking capital to accelerate their growth. In addition, the organisation offers PR and corporate-social-responsibility opportunities for established enterprises looking to expand their network and market reach.

Based in Dublin, the Bolton Trust has helped more than 140 students launch ventures, created over 100 jobs and supported upwards of 140 companies, drawing on a strong network of partners and sponsors to champion entrepreneurship throughout the Republic.