On Wednesday 28 January, The B!G Idea had the honour of unveiling our 2026–2028 Strategic Plan at Leinster House. We were thrilled to share our ambitious vision with a fully engaged, rapt audience of incredible people. Our goal is simple but powerful: to ensure no student is left behind, and that every young person has the opportunity to develop creative thinking skills, confidence, and connections to help shape Ireland’s future.
The launch brought together business leaders, policymakers, educators, and students, sparking conversations about how inclusive youth development can tackle Ireland’s skills challenges and unlock the potential of every young person.
Our incredible panel made up of economist Jim Power, Dr Lindsay Malone (KCETB), and student Dara Coady was led by Paul Sweetman (TBI Board member and AmCham ECO) highlighted how the programme is making a real difference, benefiting today’s society and economy while supporting the students who need it most.
Dara Coady, a past participant from Borris College, shared how the programme transformed his confidence and belief in his own abilities. “Most careers these days require creativity and talking in front of people, so having these skills is very useful for any job,” he said, emphasizing the real-world value of mentoring and hands-on learning.
Founder & CEO Kim Mackenzie-Doyle commented, “Every young person deserves to develop creative thinking skills, but access is uneven. We risk overlooking potential not because talent is lacking, but because equitable support hasn’t been provided. This plan aims to change that.”
Catherine Callaghan TD, supporting the event, added, “As we implement our national skills strategy and AI agenda, The B!G Idea’s model shows how universal participation, paired with sustained support, can turn potential into opportunity at scale.”
Since 2011, The B!G Idea has reached over 16,500 students, connecting classrooms with industry mentors through its EdTech platform. The new strategic plan emphasizes creative thinking—problem-solving, collaboration, adaptability, resilience—as essential skills for Ireland’s future, ensuring pathways for every student, especially those who need extra support, so social capital, not background, determines opportunity.
To learn more about how you can support us in bringing this vision to life contact hello@thebigidea.ie
