Non-profit science and technology hub Catalyst has appointed Patrick McIlveen as its new head of entrepreneurship.
McIlveen, who has held various roles at the Belfast-based organisation over the past five years, will now be responsible for overseeing its entrepreneurship support programmes.
The appointment marks a significant moment for Catalyst, which has a vision of ‘opportunity for all from world-leading innovation’ and supporting entrepreneurship in Northern Ireland from its hubs in Belfast and Derry.
McIlveen joined as manager of a digital hub project before moving to become programme associate for the company’s co-founders programme.
He was recently an innovation lead in Catalyst’s open innovation team.
Prior to Catalyst, he co-founded a property technology focused startup operating in the London market.
He is currently a Department of Education appointed director at the Northern Ireland Council for Integrated Education.
“Catalyst’s vision is ‘opportunity for all from world-leading innovation’, and I’m excited to drive that forward by strengthening the entrepreneurship landscape in Northern Ireland,” said McIlveen.
“Founders at all stages face real challenges, and my focus is on ensuring they have the right support, networks, and resources to build ambitious, globally competitive businesses – while making entrepreneurship accessible to all.”
Steve Orr, chief executive of Catalyst added: “I’m really pleased to have Patrick taking up the role of Head of Entrepreneurship. He brings a great understanding of Catalyst’s programmes and a passion for making entrepreneurship accessible to everyone in Northern Ireland, no matter their background.
“He has also been an entrepreneur himself, so he has a great understanding of some of the challenges the founders of innovative companies in our ecosystem face on a daily basis.”