Pictured are (l-r): Claire Holland-Schedrin, quality assurance specialist; Olive O'Driscoll, CEO, Adventamed; Gayle Lucey, QA/RA manager; and Kathleen Fitton, project leader/facilitator of Exxcel at the launch of the new programm

The Rubicon Centre in Cork has launched a new programme for female entrepreneurs in the science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) sectors called Exxcel.

Due to start at the end of September it will be a flexible part time programme which will run for six months giving participants the opportunity to develop and progress their business idea while staying in the workforce.

Cork Institute of Technology, Rubicon Centre and Enterprise Ireland are the initial partners on the programme.

A unique approach has been developed for the programme using ‘knowledge experts’ who will transfer their expertise and experience to participants primarily on a one to one basis.

The Exxcel programme will initially carry out a needs analysis on participants and will offer part time, focused modular and mentoring learning experiences as well as the opportunity to meet and share in the experiences of existing entrepreneurs.

The programme is open to any female with a background in the STEM sector who has a potential business idea and would like avail of our help to progress their idea.

The Rubicon Centre is now accepting applications from interested participants online (22nd of September is the deadline for submitting applications).