Entrepreneurship isn’t easy - it’s often a lonely, challenging journey. That's why at Quintas Capital, we've developed the Founders Programme, a monthly initiative designed to bring entrepreneurs together, offering them a supportive space to learn, grow, and thrive.
Facilitated by Kevin MacSweeny, this programme offers a mix of online and in-person interactions, focusing on relevant topics each month. We believe in the power of community, mentorship, and peer-to-peer learning, ensuring founders can connect, share their experiences, and gain insights from both their peers and seasoned professionals.
What is the Founders Programme?
At its core, the Founders Programme is a learning and support initiative developed by Quintas Capital for the companies we’ve invested in. This blend of virtual and face-to-face interaction allows for both flexibility and meaningful connections.
The programme covers a wide range of entrepreneurial topics, bringing in expert facilitators when necessary to dive deep into specific areas of business. Each session is designed to foster peer-to-peer learning, allowing founders to openly share their challenges, insights, and solutions. Whether it's tackling operational issues, scaling strategies, or leadership dilemmas, these sessions offer a rare chance to gain perspective and advice from those walking a similar path.
Why Peer-to-Peer Learning Matters for Entrepreneurs
Entrepreneurs are no strangers to struggle. From finding funding to scaling operations, the road can be filled with uncertainty, and at times, it can feel incredibly isolating. This is where peer-to-peer learning comes in - it breaks down those barriers, making it easier for founders to discuss their problems and explore solutions together.
Through the Founders Programme, we’ve seen firsthand how valuable it is for entrepreneurs to come together. The sense of camaraderie, coupled with the fresh perspectives offered during discussions, is often what founders need to reignite their passion and take their businesses to the next level.
For many, it's a relief to know they’re not alone in their challenges. These meetings, whether virtual or in-person, are safe spaces where entrepreneurs can exchange ideas, gain insights, and ultimately grow - both personally and professionally.
Expert-Led Sessions: Adding Extra Value
In addition to the core peer-learning approach, the Founders Programme brings in expert facilitators to guide discussions on highly specialized topics. These can range from finance, marketing, leadership, technology trends, or even mental well-being. Our experts provide actionable insights that founders can implement immediately, ensuring these sessions are not just theoretical, but practical and impactful.
Supporting Entrepreneurs Beyond Financial Backing
At Quintas Capital, our commitment to founders goes beyond just providing financial support. We see ourselves as strategic partners - working closely with our portfolio companies as they scale, pivot, and evolve. The Founders Programme is just one of the many ways we provide ongoing support.
We don’t just hand over a check and step back; we roll up our sleeves and work alongside founders, offering:
Strategic Guidance: Helping them navigate key business challenges.
Mentorship: Connecting them with seasoned professionals who’ve been in their shoes.
Community: Building a network of like-minded entrepreneurs who can support each other.
Our goal is to provide the founders in our portfolio with not just capital, but also the connections, knowledge, and support they need to succeed.
Companies Benefiting from the Founders Programme
We’ve been fortunate to work with some incredible companies through the Founders Programme. Here’s a glimpse at some of the businesses that have participated so far:
GROUND Wellbeing – Peigin Crowley & Aidan O'Mahony. A wellness brand focused on creating products and experiences that promote wellbeing.
Woodco Renewable Energy Ltd – Ger Crosse & Niall Lehane. A company pioneering renewable energy solutions.
Ascend Cloud Solutions – Ian O'Connor. Providing cloud-based solutions for modern businesses.
Gigable – John Ryan. A platform that connects gig workers with opportunities.
The CX Academy – Julian Douglas & Michael Killeen. Educating professionals in customer experience to help businesses improve service quality.
SQUID – Matthew Coffey & Katie Farrell. Offering a digital loyalty app to help businesses retain customers.
All Real Nutrition – Niall Harty & Ross McDowell. A company offering natural and nutritious snacks.
Spark – Paul Cogan & Steve Bell. Focused on transforming businesses with cutting-edge tech solutions.
Feenix Group – Sinéad Hosey & Trev Keane. Specialising in innovative event management.
Velo Coffee Roasters (B-Corp) – Suzanne Casey. A specialty coffee roaster committed to sustainability and quality.
These businesses have not only thrived with the financial backing of Quintas Capital, but they’ve also gained invaluable insights and support through the Founders Programme. It’s this combination of mentorship, community, and learning that sets these companies on the path to long-term success.
Check out a video we put together below:
Why We Believe in the Power of Community
At Quintas Capital, we’ve seen the power of community-driven learning time and time again. Entrepreneurship is tough - but it doesn’t have to be a lonely road. By bringing founders together through our Founders Programme, we’re building a community that’s rich in support, honesty, and shared knowledge.
Through this programme, we’re not just supporting businesses; we’re helping to build strong, resilient leaders who are better equipped to handle the challenges of running a company. And ultimately, that’s what drives us - helping entrepreneurs reach their full potential.
Comments