Gallery: Week four of the AIB Start-up Academy

For week four Lisa Hughes (Irish Times Training) was back to teach the 11 finalists about 'Marketing and Mastering "The Funnel"'. This week marked the halfway point for the finalists as they follow an eight-week accelerator programme.

Hughes explained that the session would explore three things; content, context and community. Many of the finalists remarked that the module was very helpful and had changed their perspectives on the role that marketing plays in their business.

The eleven finalists in this year's Academy are Rebel Chilli, The Cool Bean Company, Brendan Joseph, Nasal Medical, Popertee, Leaves, Buska, Blackwater Distillery, DropChef, Queezybags and Topper Technology.

The coveted first prize is worth over €200,000 and includes: a €20,000 cash investment from AIB, substantial advertising and marketing packages, PR training, office space and development support. There will also be a runner's up prize.

Next week Barbara Lynch will facilitate the group for 'Sales and Negotiation'.