University of Galway, in partnership with The Liffey Trust, has announced Sean Allen, a first-year General Science student, as the recipient of the 2025 Séamus McDermott Entrepreneurial Scholarship. 

 Established in 2022 through the generous support of The Liffey Trust, the scholarship recognises and supports outstanding entrepreneurial talent of undergraduate students.

 Sean Allen, from Four Mile House, Co Roscommon, has been recognised nationally and internationally for his work in science and innovation, with a focus on sustainable solutions in agriculture.

 With a strong entrepreneurial drive and collaborative mind-set, he has shown exceptional potential as an innovator, and the scholarship will support him as he continues to develop his entrepreneurial skills to work on innovative projects.

  Dr Natalie Walsh, Director of Entrepreneurial Development at the University of Galway, said: “Sean is a fantastic example of the innovation and initiative we strive to nurture at the University of Galway IdeasLab. Since joining us, he has continued to show exceptional drive and curiosity, with a clear passion for turning ideas into real impact. His entrepreneurial mindset and commitment to solving meaningful challenges make him a very deserving recipient of this award.” 

 Aidan Corless, Chairperson of The Liffey Trust, said: “It was a pleasure to meet Sean Allen who embodies everything the Séamus McDermott Scholarship stands for: a commitment to innovation, social impact, and a drive to make meaningful change. Sean is making ordinary things, Extraordinary. We are proud to support his next chapter and thank you to University of Galway for their mentoring and leadership.”

 The Séamus McDermott Entrepreneurial Scholarship is supported by IdeasLab, the University’s student innovation hub, which empowers students to develop creative solutions to real-world challenges. 

 Valued at €9,000 over the course of the recipient’s studies, the scholarship stipend award celebrates students who demonstrate vision, leadership and a commitment to creating real-world impact through innovation. 

 To learn more about the scholarship and entrepreneurial initiatives at the University of Galway, visit: www.universityofgalway.ie/ideaslab 

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