TEN innovative founders, including three Donegal graduates, were celebrated at a ceremony in Sligo following their participation in Enterprise Ireland’s New Frontiers programme at ATU Donegal and Sligo.
The spotlight was on Chris Cornwall, co-founder of Arlo; Hannah Kelly, founder of Insigli; and Jennie Carr, founder of Isle Skincare.
Arlo, headquartered in Donegal, delivers real‑time medical notes, referral letters, and patient summaries, all of which sync instantly with current patient management software.
Insigli helps marketing agencies who spend days pulling together data and reports from disconnected marketing tools have client ready, performance reports with ROI attribution and recommendations in line with their goals and targets in minutes.
Meanwhile, Isle Skincare is a natural skincare brand developing innovative body care products using high-quality, Irish-made ingredients, starting with a targeted tallow-based balm.
Enterprise Ireland’s New Frontiers programme is delivered through ATU Donegal and Sligo and is the National Entrepreneur Development Programme with a support package worth €40,000.
The programme’s primary purpose is to accelerate the development of sustainable new businesses that have strong international growth potential and contribute to job creation and economic activity in the region.
This year as part of the end of programme event, each participant had the opportunity to “pitch” their business with a chance of winning three cash prizes.
The “Most Investable Start-Up Award” sponsored by PGIM went to Chris Cornwall, who co-founded Arlo in early 2025, the company has achieved impressive early sales and is gearing up for major expansion, with upcoming investment boosting its growth trajectory.
Donegal’s Chris Cornwall, who co-founded Arlo, received an award for the “Most Investable Start-Up Award” sponsored by PGIM.
The winner of the “One to Watch Award” sponsored by ATU was Shania Taite of Saorla, based in Galway.
Saorla’s first product is LullaMED – a paediatric seating solution for 0–9-month-old babies, designed to support a calmer, safer, and more efficient treatment experience for clinicians, infants, and parents.
The “Best Pitch Award” sponsored by AIB went to Connor Feehily of Qora EPOS.
Co‑founded in 2025 by the Manorhamilton native, Qora EPOS introduces a new standard in supplier order automation for the retail sector.
Speaking at the ceremony, Brendan Jennings, Chief Officer Research, Innovation & Engagement, ATU said. “Embedding Enterprise Ireland’s New Frontiers programme within ATU plays a vital role in supporting balanced regional development. Participants are making a meaningful contribution to the indigenous business community and helping to drive the region’s economic growth.
“Many of you have already benefited from engaging with the wider ATU community throughout your time on the programme—drawing on the expertise, insights, and support of academic staff and students as you progressed through your development phase.
“We hope you will continue to stay connected with the university and make use of its services long after you have completed the programme, helping to strengthen and accelerate the growth of your businesses.”
Ciara Concannon, Enterprise Ireland’s National New Frontiers Programme Manager also attended the awards and described New Frontiers as ““a truly national programme whose success is rooted in its regional delivery model, ensuring support is delivered where it’s needed most.”
Applications are now open for Phase 1 of New Frontiers which starts on April 14. For more information about the programme visit www.newfrontiersnw.ie