Back for Business 8 Testimonials
I highly recommend Back for Business, it’s an excellent programme for entrepreneurs returning home.
-Aisling Connaughton, Cyd Connects
Participating in the Back for Business programme has been a transformative experience for Republic of Oud. As a company founded by a returned emigrant, we often faced unique challenges navigating the Irish business ecosystem. This programme provided invaluable support, mentorship, and community that helped us gain clarity, build confidence, and scale sustainably. From the personalized guidance of seasoned Lead Entrepreneurs to the networking opportunities with like-minded founders, every aspect of the program was thoughtfully designed to nurture growth. We’ve refined our business strategy, expanded our reach, and most importantly, felt a renewed sense of belonging within Ireland’s entrepreneurial community. We are deeply grateful to the Back for Business team for championing returned entrepreneurs and empowering businesses like ours to thrive. We highly recommend this program to any returnee looking to establish or grow their business in Ireland.
-Alan Coakley, Republic of Oud
Back for Business was a great, practical support for my entrepreneurial journey. The mix of peer learning, accountability, and mentorship from the experienced Lead Entrepreneur gave us practical tools and ideas to think about how to push our businesses forward. What I valued most was being part of a network of people in the same situation, recently returned and eager to bring what they’ve learned overseas, but who understand the challenges (and excitement) of starting and scaling from Ireland.
-Ann Dermody, Cloverland Communications
A fantastic programme for returning Irish emigrants. Working with others who have been there, done that and get the whole experience. Facilitated by a great, professional and supportive team. Can’t recommend it highly enough.
-Barry Denham, Growth Edge Consulting
Finding your feet as a new business owner and entrepreneur after returning home from abroad is no easy task. There are so many aspects to starting a business here that can be overwhelming. Back for Business helped me to organise my time and energy, working through the monthly agendas and ticking the boxes that helped me to keep moving forward with confidence and direction. The group format was so helpful because we all learned from each other, whether it be success or setback, we taught each other a lot and had ideas/feedback for each other too. The overall structure of the programme is really helpful in helping you stay on top of things. We come back as experts in our field or with experience and ideas for a great new business but there’s so many things that we don’t know on the back end of it all. This programme helps you navigate all of that with efficiency.
-Barry Moore, Vitality Neuro Rehab
Back for Business is an extraordinary programme that gives returning emigrants the confidence, network, and practical know-how to turn business ideas into reality in Ireland. The calibre of the Lead Entrepreneurs is exceptional – seasoned founders from diverse industries who share real, hard-won insights. The combination of their guidance, the Department’s backing, and the camaraderie of your cohort creates an environment where challenges are shared, solutions are found, and lasting relationships are built. It’s rare to find a space that is so open, supportive, and energising. Paula and her team orchestrate it all with absolute professionalism – this is a programme that can genuinely change your business journey.
-Dave McCormack, Fluent
Returning to Ireland from London to launch Cymell Consulting was a big step, but Back for Business made all the difference. The programme offered far more than expert advice, it created a genuine sense of community and support. Over the past six months, I’ve gained invaluable connections, knowledge, and renewed confidence, thanks to the encouragement and honest conversations with fellow entrepreneurs and our Lead Entrepreneur. This experience has truly been a highlight of my journey.
-Jennifer Fahy, Cymell Consulting
Back for Business was more than I thought before joining. It helped my business grow and it helped me as a business owner. Meeting other business owners in other sectors was fascinating to see where they are exactly and how they manage themselves and their teams. Nothing but a positive impact all round from everyone involved and anybody who is lucky enough to get selected with only thrive afterwards.
-Jonathan May, Hypergoat Coffee
Applying for Back for Business is one of the best decisions I’ve made for myself and my business! Returning to Ireland to start a business is always challenging but I feel very lucky to have been a part of this programme and to have made lasting connections with other entrepreneurs.
-Katie Meegan, Cuala Creative
Thank you to all in the Back for Business team, my Lead Entrepreneur, and my group of peers for the invaluable insights, support, accountability and inspiration I received throughout my time. Since joining the group a few short months ago with just an idea, I now have an up-and-running profitable business with 39 happy clients and exciting plans for steady growth!
-Marie Dillon, Mabel
Back for Business helps you to meet like-minded people. Meet a leader like Hannah who will help you to get on to the next step on the ladder. These people know where to lead you. Without them you are standing still.
-Michael Casey, Mike Casey Construction
Back for Business helps participants unlock the opportunities for returning diaspora and ensures they are fully equipped to bring their international know how and networks to the Irish market. The mix of networking, peer group support and plenary sessions over a six month period ensures returning entrepreneurs not only become aware of the full range resources available but that they also develop an additional support network who they can brain storm, ideate and share challenges with.
-Paul Herrick, Arco Irish
I highly recommend the Back for Business programme. As a returning emigrant to Ireland, building a network within the country can be challenging, and Back for Business truly supports that journey. Entrepreneurship can be a lonely place, but during my time with the programme I felt part of a team again, thanks to excellent Lead Entrepreneurs, who guided our group week after week and was always on hand to provide support, answer questions, and share her wisdom to help us navigate challenges. The programme was invaluable for identifying gaps in my business and setting clear goals. A big thank you to Paula, Orla and Clodagh and the whole team for making it such a worthwhile experience.
-Robert Walsh, Spud
Reading the paper one morning in a coffee shop in Dublin, I came across Back for Business. After a short read and quick application I found myself in a room full of like-minded and connected people. From the offset this programme was well thought out and provided an instant network of people who understood Irelands business landscape. I was very grateful to of had the opportunity to participate knowing the hard work that happens behind the scenes to make it all happen. Many thanks to all the team, Paula, Orla, Clodagh and to the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
-Thomas Noonan, Farmer’s Hive™
Back for Business gave me the structure, focus, and confidence to think bigger and actively pursue new opportunities. The feedback was constructive and challenging in the best possible way, and the support from both my Lead Entrepreneur and the group was invaluable. I finished the programme with a clearer strategy and a new client — results that speak for themselves.
-Ziva Mullins, Doninga Bloodstock