IRISH WOMEN ARE thriving in the world of business, but it’s important to remember that nobody can do it alone. 

National Women’s Enterprise Day, an initiative by Ireland’s Local Enterprise Offices, enters its 20th year this autumn, and over those two decades, many women have come together to share experiences, give each other guidance, support each other’s ambitions, and build countless successful businesses across Ireland.

With 16 events taking place across the country on 15 October, this year’s National Women’s Enterprise Day promises to nurture that same sense of entrepreneurship which has seen so many women grow, thrive and turn their business dreams into a reality. Whether you’re a woman trying to take her company to the next level, or someone simply wondering how you can possibly take a burgeoning idea and turn it into something real, there’s something for you.

This year’s events range from panel discussions with women in business who have been through all the highs and lows that come with a life in business to one-on-one interviews that will illuminate personal entrepreneurial journeys. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet representatives from their Local Enterprise Office to hear about the broad range of support for business such as funding, training, consultancy and mentoring. 

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In Kildare, for example, attendees can hear from Marissa Carter, founder and CEO of Coco Brown, at the Keaden Hotel in Newbridge. Integrative health expert, pharmacist and author Miriam Hussey takes to the stage at the Abbey Hotel in Roscommon, while in Wicklow, author and podcast host Claire Walsh will share her experience at the Clermont Hotel. 

The Cork and Kerry event also boast a diverse line-up of successful women entrepreneurs, including Louise Quill, founder and voluntary CEO of Tir na Og Children’s Foundation, Christina Foley of Inish Living and Claire Morgan of McWilliam Bags to name a few.

Meanwhile the Dublin event will be hosted by broadcaster and entrepreneur Anna Daly with insights from skincare expert Jennifer Rock of The Skin Nerd, Dervla Arthurs of Snugabugz, Sofie Rooney of Chimac, Mags Morgan of Mizz Rio and Aine Devlin of ExamRevision, who will will discuss the inspiration and turning points that shaped their business journeys.

But the events are about more than inspiration alone. Attendees will gain valuable knowledge on the key areas driving business success today and have the opportunity to learn about the support available through their Local Enterprise Office, including funding, training, consultancy and mentoring.

Whether you’re already running a business, hoping to grow an existing company or simply wondering how to take that first step, National Women’s Enterprise Day offers the chance to connect with other women, hear from those who have been there and find the support to make your next move.

To explore the full list of events, visit Local Enterprise Offices online and get inspired for your next move in the business world.