Wayra opens Dublin academy to new startup projects

Tech accelerator Wayra is on the lookout for the next lot of startups for its programme.

The Docklands-based initiative, which is a Telefonica programme, is seeking projects that have business ideas in the field of new technologies and the internet. The current call will stay open until June 8th, and applicants can also seek a place in one of Wayra's academies in seven other countries around the world.

Wayra Ireland began in 2012, and has since supported 21 firms with early stage investment, workspace and access to expertise and mentors. Among its previous projects are online fraud prevention firm Trustev, gambling company Bragbet, social commerce platform Popdeem and advertising platform Fonesense. The 21 companies have raised more than €6 million in funding to date.

The Wayra programme, which also has academies in Madrid, Barcelona and Munich in Europe, and Mexico City, Buenos Aires, Lima and Santiago de Chile in Latin America, has a portfolio of more than 330 companies, with a fund of more than €13.5 million. Third party investors, such as public and private funds and angel investors, have also allocated funds of more than €36 million to the startups.