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About the Graduate to Export programme

Fully funded by Invest NI, Graduate to Export is an export programme aimed at local businesses. It helps businesses grow by providing financial support to hire a graduate for 18 months.

The graduate will spend six months in Northern Ireland getting to know the business, followed by 12 months in an export market conducting research that fits with the company’s plans.

The application window for Graduate to Export is due to open on Monday 24 March 2025.

How can my business benefit from the Graduate to Export programme?

By the end of the 18-month program, companies will gain:

  • A better understanding of their target export market
  • A thorough market research report or entry plan
  • The option to hire the graduate permanently

The Graduate to Export Programme gave us the ability to add structure to our development plan. Having a resolute person to assist with this made it extremely useful and focused.

McCloskey International

The Graduate to Export programme helped us identify leads within the Americas market. By combining the academic and practical methods, our Graduate was able to use these skills to develop an initial desktop research which assisted Ulster Carpets with a Market Entry Strategy.

Beverly Copeland, Director Organisation Development, Ulster Carpets

Who is eligible for the Graduate to Export programme?

The Graduate to Export programme is only available to Invest Northern Ireland clients. If you would like more information on becoming a client, see How we support business.  

To be eligible, you must also meet the following criteria: 

  • Identify a market research project in a new or existing market aligned to their strategic marketing plan (projects based in Great Britain or the Republic of Ireland are eligible under this programme)
  • Demonstrate that the project requires the skills of an entry level graduate
  • Provide support to a graduate while in market
  • While this programme is targeted at SMEs, large companies may also apply.

How to apply?

The application window for Graduate to Export is due to open on Monday 24 March 2025.   

Discover more

Hear how the Graduate to Export programme has benefited both local businesses and graduates.

Contact us

If you are interested in Graduate to Export programme support, contact our Business Support Team on 0800 181 4422 or complete the enquiry form.

For information on how we use your personal data including your rights, see our privacy notice.

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