Entrepreneurs in Omagh and the surrounding area now have access to a new UK-wide programme designed to help business founders from underrepresented backgrounds raise investment and scale their businesses.
Breakthrough Founders, funded by Innovate UK, provides a fully funded pathway to investment with expert training, access to investors, and a supportive community. The programme is aimed at levelling the playing field for founders who may not traditionally have the same access to finance and networks.
What’s on offer
Participants are matched to a programme track that reflects their stage of business, whether validating an idea, seeking early grant funding, or preparing to raise Series A investment.
The support includes:
-
Training from award-winning business experts
-
Access to venture capitalists and angel investors focused on diverse founders
-
A flexible, fully online structure to fit around business and personal life
-
A community of like-minded entrepreneurs across the UK
Why it matters for Omagh businesses
With so many innovative entrepreneurs in the Omagh area working on new products, services, and technologies, this programme provides a vital opportunity to connect with investors and secure the funding needed to grow. It’s particularly valuable for local founders who may face additional barriers due to gender, disability, background, or caring responsibilities.
Who should apply
The programme is open to UK residents with a registered (or soon-to-be registered) business developing innovative products, services, or technologies. Applicants should be planning to raise investment within the next 3–12 months.
Breakthrough Founders is particularly aimed at supporting:
-
Women entrepreneurs
-
Ethnic minority founders
-
LGBTQIA+ entrepreneurs
-
Neurodivergent people
-
Disabled founders
-
Primary caregivers
-
Those from non-traditional education routes or disadvantaged backgrounds
How to apply
The application process includes a short initial form, a more detailed second stage (with interviews or webinars), and an assessment to match founders with peers at a similar stage. Feedback and support are offered even to those not accepted.
📅 Applications are open now, with the first programmes beginning in autumn 2025.
👉 Find out more and apply to become a Breakthrough Founder: breakthroughfounders.co.uk
