Gavin Duffy facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Gavin Duffy
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| Born |
Liam Duffy
29 April 1960 Kildare, Ireland
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| Nationality | Irish |
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| Known for | Main dragon on the Irish version of Dragons' Den |
| Political party | Independent |
| Spouse(s) | |
| Children | 4 |
Gavin Duffy is an Irish businessman and entrepreneur. He is well-known for being one of the main investors, or "dragons," on the Irish TV show Dragons' Den. He has also been involved in radio and business consulting. In 2018, he ran for president of Ireland.
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Early Life and Education
Gavin Duffy was born Liam Duffy on April 29, 1960. He grew up in Sallins, County Kildare, where his father had a pig farm. His mother ran a restaurant in Naas. He went to St. Laurence's primary school in Sallins.
Later, his family moved to Drogheda, County Louth, and bought a pub. Gavin attended St. Joseph's Secondary School there. He then went to Newbridge College in County Kildare to finish his secondary education.
Starting a Business Career
After school, Gavin Duffy started his first business, Boyneside Radio, in Drogheda. This is when he changed his name from Liam to Gavin. In 1989, he helped create LMFM, which was the first licensed local radio station in the area. This radio station was later sold in 2004.
In 1992, Gavin and his wife, Orlaith Carmody, started their own company called Gavin Duffy and Associates. This company helps people with media and business advice. He also worked for RTÉ, Ireland's national broadcaster, where he presented a business TV show called Marketplace.
Dragons' Den and Other Roles
Gavin Duffy became famous for his role as a "dragon" on Dragons' Den. On this show, entrepreneurs pitch their business ideas to investors, hoping to get money to grow their companies. Gavin was a dragon on all eight seasons of the show in Ireland.
In 2016, Gavin received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Chamber of Commerce in Drogheda. He has also helped with political debates, including the 2017 Fine Gael leadership election where Leo Varadkar became leader. He has advised and coached several Irish leaders, known as Taoisigh.
Helping Young Entrepreneurs
Gavin Duffy is the Chairperson of Bizworld Ireland. This is a non-profit organization that teaches primary school children about entrepreneurship. He also supports other charities, including Suzanne House and the Drogheda Classical Music Series.
2018 Presidential Campaign
Gavin Duffy was one of the candidates in the 2018 Irish presidential election. To run for president, he needed support from several local councils. He received nominations from Meath County Council, Carlow County Council, Wicklow County Council, and Waterford City and County Council. He finished last among the six candidates in the election.
Personal Life
Gavin Duffy lives in Bellewstown, County Meath, with his wife, Orlaith Carmody. They have four children.
