Dublin's Resident Concierge

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Dublin’s Resident Concierge for Startups is a service that assists startups in navigating the challenges of establishing and scaling their operations.
What are the main aims and objectives?

Dublin's Resident Concierge for Startups aims to foster a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem by providing tailored support to new businesses. The primary objectives include facilitating connections between startups and key stakeholders, such as investors and industry peers, thereby enhancing networking opportunities. The service also focuses on simplifying access to essential resources, including funding, mentorship, and regulatory guidance, which are crucial for startups navigating the complexities of establishing their operations. Additionally, the concierge seeks to promote Dublin as an attractive destination for startups by showcasing its unique advantages, such as a supportive business environment and a rich talent pool.

How does the program work?

Dublin's Resident Concierge for Startups operates as a specialized support service designed to assist new businesses in navigating the complexities of establishing and growing in the city. The concierge, led by Niamh Bushnell, provides a personalized approach to help startups by connecting them with essential resources and networks.

The process begins with an initial consultation where startups can outline their specific needs and challenges. Based on this understanding, the concierge offers tailored support, which includes facilitating introductions to potential investors, media contacts, and other key stakeholders in the business ecosystem. This networking aspect is crucial, as it helps startups gain visibility and access opportunities that may otherwise be difficult to secure.

In addition to networking, the concierge provides guidance on accessing local resources such as funding opportunities, mentorship programs, and regulatory compliance. This support is particularly beneficial for foreign entrepreneurs who may be unfamiliar with the local business landscape. The concierge also organizes events and workshops that foster community engagement among startups, further enhancing collaboration and knowledge sharing within the entrepreneurial ecosystem.

What is the overall cost?

There is no information available on the running costs of Dublin's Resident Concierge for Startups

How was it implemented?

Dublin's Resident Concierge for Startups was created as part of a broader strategy to enhance the city's entrepreneurial ecosystem and support the growth of new businesses. The initiative emerged from the recognition of the need for a dedicated resource that could assist startups in navigating the complexities of establishing themselves in Dublin, particularly in a competitive global market.

The concierge service was officially launched in 2016, spearheaded by Niamh Bushnell, who was appointed to lead this initiative. The creation of the Resident Concierge was influenced by successful models in other cities that had implemented similar support systems for startups.

What impact has been measured?

There is no available information about the impact of Dublin's Resident Concierge for Startups.

Notes + Additional Context

About policy tools for ecosystem coordination (excerpt from Nesta's ‘Idea Bank’ for Local Policymakers):

Even if there is not a specific digital cluster, many cities are actively facilitating or federating their ecosystem by creating bodies that link the activities of the organisations concerned – such as universities, funding bodies, incubators, accelerators, co-working spaces, service providers (like legal, financial services etc.) and large corporations. This helps the city to take a structured and longterm approach to developing digital entrepreneurship. Such bodies can also help investors, customers and other partners to navigate the seemingly-chaotic and rapidly-changing startup environment of a city.

CURATED BY

Simona Bielli

Research Programme Coordinator – Digital Startups
Nesta
United Kingdom