RUN BY THE Local Enterprise Offices across Ireland, Local Enterprise Week 2–6 March is an annual series of activities designed to educate, inform and develop SMEs right across the country. Taking place every March, it has become a key date in the calendar for Irish businesses – a sampler of the wide variety of supports available to help companies at every stage of their journey.

Focused on helping businesses at any stage of development – from those with a business idea to established enterprises –the week offers expert advice and practical workshops on topics such as accessing funding, starting to export and understanding the latest AI tools. There is something for everyone.

During the week, more than 330 events will take place nationwide, with a strong focus this year on AI and digital. A flagship event at Google will bring together up to 300 businesses to explore how to integrate digital into their operations. There will also be special events to mark International Women’s Day – like this business lunch in Laois – featuring inspirational content and targeted supports for women in business.

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Across the country, the programme includes a wide variety of clinics and masterclasses covering exporting, tourism and business development. Local Enterprise Offices are working with partners including Local Chambers of Commerce, Enterprise Ireland and Network Ireland to highlight the breadth of supports available to businesses that need them.

No matter where you are based, there are events on offer providing valuable access to information and expert guidance. Here’s a taste of what’s to come:

In Swords, we have The Drive for Success event, taking place on Wednesday, 4 March. Hosted by Gary Fox, the evening features insights from Eddie Wilson of Ryanair DAC, Kellie Harrington of Team Ireland, Niall Horgan of Gym+Coffee, and Gavin Hydes of Joe Duffy Group. This event will bring together leaders from sport and business who understand the challenges first-hand, offering honest conversation, practical insight and valuable connection for those focused on performance, growth and long-term success. Book here. 

In Cork on 3 March, hear expert insights on retail challenges, future trends and digitalisation from top Irish business leaders- such as the CEO of The Kilkenny Group Evelyn Moynihan & Co- Founder of Ella & Jo- Charlene Flanagan at the Future Proofing Small Businesses with The Kilkenny Group & Ella & Jo. Designed for retailers, makers, and service businesses ready to boost visibility, sales and long-term resilience in 2026. Book here.

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Meanwhile in Carlow, join Rory King in an innovative programme designed to empower professionals in the tourism and hospitality sectors. With a wealth of experience and a passion for the tourism industry, Rory King provides invaluable insights to help businesses thrive in today’s competitive landscape on 5 March at Rory’s Travels Tourism and Hospitality Programme. More details here.

Kieran Comerford, Chair of the Local Enterprise Offices, says the week is designed to support entrepreneurs and business owners at every stage.

There’s something for everybody. Whether you’re someone with an idea, just starting out, growing your business, or already established and developing further, there’s support at every stage. It’s designed for people at every point on their business journey.”

He also highlighted the challenges facing SMEs in the year ahead.

The biggest hurdle facing SMEs in 2026 is uncertainty in the broader economy and the general cost of doing business. That’s the reality many of our clients are facing. Our job is to support them – to be that back office and support system. From their challenges come opportunities, and we’re here to help them turn those opportunities into growth.”

Local Enterprise Week works across five main pillars: lean efficiency, digital, green, export development and management development. Access to funding, exporting and AI are key topics, with events specifically designed to help businesses navigate both challenges and opportunities in these areas.

“All the events are centred around opportunity,” Comerford adds. “Networking with peers is essential, and the content is delivered by ‘been there, done that’ entrepreneurs – which is incredibly valuable. I’d say reach out, expand your network and get involved. Local Enterprise Week can be the start of the journey – a journey that could continue all the way to a thriving business.”

Local Enterprise Week takes place from 2-6 March, with events happening all around the country. Whether you’re a budding entrepreneur or an established business, check out what’s happening near you at www.localenterprise.ie/week.