26-05-2025
- Business
- Irish Independent
Kerry business selected for programme providing supports for start-ups developing new AI solutions
Ailtir, founded by Donagh Ó Buchalla and Adrian Smith, is a company which provides an AI platform that reduces much of the time and costs associated with the construction tenderising process.
The Tralee-based startup has been selected to participate in the second six-month AI Ecosystem Accelerator Programme, which is being delivered by NovaUCD, an entrepreneurial hub, and CeADAR, Ireland's centre for AI, at UCD.
The focus of the programme, which has just commenced, is to support a cohort of entrepreneurs who are developing disruptive AI solutions in a variety of sectors for a global market.
Ailtir co-founder and CEO, Donagh Ó Buachalla, said he is delighted his company has been accepted into the AI programme.
'It's a fantastic opportunity to connect with world-class mentors and ambitious founders, and to accelerate Ailtir's mission to transform how construction teams approach tendering,' Mr Ó Buachalla said.
'We're looking forward to sharpening our product, deepening our impact, and scaling our solution both in Ireland and internationally.'
Participants of the AI Ecosystem Accelerator Programme will receive guidance from CeADAR's AI experts and experienced commercial mentors, along with workshops on value proposition, scaling and investor readiness.
They will also have access to collaborative co-working space at NovaUCD with the opportunity to connect with successful AI entrepreneurs, start-ups, corporates, investors and access to skilled interns.
The programme is funded through the European Digital Innovation Hubs framework, an initiative with funding of €700 million from both the European Commission and the governments of member states.
Enterprise Ireland is leading on the programme in UCD.
The 2025 AI Ecosystem Accelerator Programme will end with a showcase event in October.
