Propelor is delighted to announce that applications are now open for The Big Pitch 2025, taking place on Tuesday, 4th November at the Theatre Royal, Waterford.
As Propelor’s flagship startup competition, The Big Pitch offers ambitious founders the opportunity to showcase their business, gain expert mentorship, and compete for a €7,500 cash prize in front of a live audience.
A Proven Format
Three finalists will be selected and paired with experienced mentors who will guide them in refining their pitch ahead of the event. On the morning, each finalist will present their business idea on stage, with the judging panel crowning the overall winner.
The morning also features the Little Pitchers – four early-stage founders who will deliver lightning pitches, with the audience voting live for The One to Watch award.
The Mentors
This year’s mentors bring exceptional expertise across life sciences, venture capital, and startup finance:
- Tom Brennan – Life sciences entrepreneur and co-founder of EirGen Pharma, Q1 Scientific, TriviumVet, and Shorla Oncology.
- Barry Downes – Managing Partner at Sure Valley Ventures, founder of FeedHenry, and investor in AI and emerging technologies.
- Siobhán Oates – Chartered Accountant and CFO at Klearcom, with a background in preparing startups for investment at South East BIC and HBAN.

Watch Last Year’s Highlights
The Big Pitch has become a standout event in Ireland’s startup calendar. To get a sense of the atmosphere and energy, watch the highlights from 2024 here:
Apply Now
Applications for The Big Pitch 2025 are open until 5pm on 30th September.
👉 For more information and to apply, visit: https://propelorbic.ie/the-big-pitch/
With thanks to our sponsors Klearcom, Enterprise Ireland and The Local Enterprise Offices of Carlow, Tipperary, Laois, Offaly, Waterford and Wexford.