How it works

Step 1: Initial assessment

Contact our team to discuss your particular business needs and find out how the programme could help you.  If you are eligible for support, one of our consultants will arrange a meeting to understand your particular needs in more detail.

 

Step 2: Business-Academic Partnership formed

We will work with you to discuss your specific innovation needs and identify potential university or college partners with the expertise that you require.  Alternatively, you may already have an academic partner in mind that you would like to work with on your FUSION project.

Note:  As this is an all-island programme, the third-level institution which you are partnered with must be based in the opposite jurisdiction to your business.

 

Step 3: Complete a joint application

Together with your academic partner, you will submit a joint application for support.  The application sets out the project plan, objectives, milestones and the support your company needs.  You will also scope the graduate skills/experience you require to help manage the project.   Your FUSION consultant will help you to complete your application and you can also attend an application workshop.

 

Step 4:  Approval

The application will be considered at a monthly meeting and if approved, you will be notified immediately.  Next, we will work with you to help you recruit your graduate project manager.

 

Step 5:  Graduate recruitment

You will supply a job/personnel description for the graduate position and we will advertise the position on your behalf.  Applications are initially shortlisted by your FUSION consultant and suitable candidate applications are then reviewed by you and your academic partner for interview and selection.

 

Step 6:  Project Implementation

Throughout the duration of the project, your company will work in partnership with the graduate project manager and the academic institute.  InterTradeIreland will assist in co-ordinating the project by providing a FUSION consultant to oversee its successful implementation.

As part of the programme support package, the graduate will be funded by InterTradeIreland to complete a Post Graduate Diploma in Management Practice with the UCD Michael Smurfit Business School on a part-time basis.  They may also be funded to complete specific training courses to improve their capabilities and expertise in delivering your project.

 

For more information download our InterTradeIreland FUSION brochure (522 KB) .