The Local Enterprise Offices of Carlow and Kilkenny County Councils are inviting female founders and business leaders across the region to come together for National Women’s Enterprise Day 2026, a landmark celebration marking twenty years of women in Irish business. The event takes place on Thursday 15th October at the Woodford Dolmen Hotel, Carlow, from 11.45am to 2pm. Places are strictly limited and registration is essential, so early booking is strongly advised.
Now in its 20th year, National Women’s Enterprise Day is the flagship national initiative for women in business, coordinated by the Local Enterprise Offices and Enterprise Ireland. This year’s theme, #MakingItHappen, celebrates the ambition and resilience of female entrepreneurs who have built and grown businesses over the past two decades.
The event will be hosted by broadcaster Ruth Scott of Classic Hits FM. A ‘Lessons Learned’ fireside chat brings together local entrepreneurs Denise Walsh of Curly Co, Laura Mullin of The Old Post Office, and Brigid Walsh of Solar Precision, who will share the realities of starting and scaling a business. A ‘Power Panel’ of industry experts follows, featuring Rosemary Ward of Propellor BIC on sales and marketing, Ruth Larkin of Lark Bridal on marketing, and finance specialist Mary Hayden. A closing ‘Supporting You’ session will outline the funding, mentoring and development programmes available to businesswomen through both Local Enterprise Offices.
Paula O’Brien, Director of Services for Planning, Economic Development, Regeneration and Corporate Services at Carlow County Council, said: ‘Twenty years on, National Women’s Enterprise Day continues to shine a light on the extraordinary contribution women make to enterprise in Carlow, Kilkenny and across the country. The connections made in that room often become the partnerships and friendships that stand to a business for years. I would encourage every woman with a business ambition to book her place and be part of this special day.’
Aileen McGrath, Head of Enterprise at Kilkenny County Council’s Local Enterprise Office, added: ‘Whether you are at the very start of your journey or scaling an established business, there is something here for you. I would warmly invite women across Kilkenny and Carlow to reserve a seat and spend the afternoon among peers who understand the road.’
Attendees can expect expert insight, a practical overview of local business supports, and light refreshments, all designed to send you back to their businesses with fresh contacts and ideas. Tickets are €20 per person.
Booking is now open and places will fill quickly. To secure a seat, visit the Local Enterprise Office Carlow website and reserve your place today.
