Mayo firm a winner in InterTradeIreland Seedcorn competition

A MAYO firm was one of the main winners at the prestigious InterTradeIreland Seedcorn Investor Readiness Competition final, held at the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin.

Limerick company Tracworx was named the overall winner of the competition. The company has developed a patient tracking system that uses only the existing Wi-Fi networks in a hospital, allowing them to automate their data collection and to generate reports using real-time data.

Mayo company Atlantic Photonic Solutions was the other main winner on the night, winning the Best New Start Category award and a cash prize of €50,000.

APS have developed a harmless fish-friendly light that aims to remove sea lice from farmed salmon.

Rory Casey, managing director at Atlantic Photonic Solutions, commented: “The Seedcorn process has allowed us to not only become investor ready but hone our presentation skills and condense and refine business opportunities.

“We’d like to thank the team at InterTradeIreland, the judges and all those that helped with our pitch – it has been a wonderful journey. Seedcorn has already opened so many doors for us, and we look forward to an exciting 12 months ahead.”

Congratulating the winners, Ken Nelson, MBE, InterTradeIreland chairman, said: “Seedcorn replicates the real-life investment process, providing companies with the opportunity to put their business idea to the test and ensure it is investor-ready. These early stage businesses are vital to the economy, both north and south, and it is important we ensure these high potential start-ups are provided with the support and guidance needed to grow and develop their business propositions.

“I congratulate Tracworx and Atlantic Photonic Solutions Ltd. on their success, and on behalf of everyone at InterTradeIreland we wish them the very best for the next stage in their journey. I have no doubt both companies will go on to achieve great success.”