Small businesses and budding entrepreneurs will have the opportunity to sample over 20 events aimed at helping them to start or grow their business as part of this year’s Local Enterprise Week in Donegal.
The initiative of the Local Enterprise Offices nationwide, supported by Enterprise Ireland and the local authorities, takes place from the 3rd to 7th March this year. Click here to view the eBrochure and book events in Donegal.
One of the highlights of this year’s programme is the ‘Made in Donegal Business Summit and Showcase’, an exciting event that brings together some of Donegal’s brightest minds from the worlds of sport and business, while celebrating the county’s thriving artisan food and craft industries.
(Front row left)) Mayor of the Letterkenny Milford MD, Cllr Gerry McMonagle, John McLaughlin, CE of Donegal County Council, Jimmy Kavanagh, Leas Cathaoirleach, Brenda Hegarty, Head of Enterprise, Cllr Donal ‘Mandy’ Kelly, Garry Martin. Director of Economic Development at Donegal County Council, and Grace Korbel, Assist Head of Enterprise, attend the launch of the Local Enterprise Week brochure in the Local Enterprise Office in Letterkenny. Photo by Joe Dunne
The week begins with ‘Building Your Business Network: A Foundation for Success’, hosted by Kingsley Aikins from The Networking Institute, who will give a masterclass on the art of networking driven from his vast experience and significant achievements. Kingsley will discuss his work with The Ireland Funds, Ireland’s then largest diaspora organisation, where he helped to raise over a quarter of a billion dollars. After his talk, there will be a networking opportunity for attendees where Kingsley will share practical advice, knowledge, and tips for network upskilling.
On Tuesday, there are several events to cover all bases of business. ‘Develop, Grow and Retain Talent: Smart Approaches to Talent Development and Retention’ will see a panel discuss how organisations such as Kelco, Century Cinema and Tata created a growth mindset by promoting a culture where learning is valued and recognised. ‘Taxation and Company Law Tips for SMEs’ will cover the different tax reliefs for your business, and how to deal with Revenue. ‘Revolutionising Business: The Power of AI and XR’ will delve into the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Extended Reality (XR), in shaping the future of businesses.
Wednesday presents itself with lots more interesting events from ‘Leading with Purpose: Inspiring Women to Champion Sustainability’, a workshop on refining your approach to sustainability, to an ‘Exploring Self-Employment Workshop’.
Thursday brings a celebration of female entrepreneurship, as Donegal Women in Business mark International Women’s Day with an event entitled ‘Fit for Business’. Hosted by Maria Rushe of Rushe Fitness, the event will feature a keynote address from guest speaker, Jenni Timony, founder of FitPink, who will share her journey and insights on building a thriving business. A panel of local women in business will also share their insights, challenges, and strategies for growth.
Local Enterprise Week wraps up on Friday, 7th March with the ‘Made in Donegal: Business Summit’ which takes place from 12:00 PM to 3:30 PM at the Mount Errigal Hotel, Letterkenny. The event will be hosted by Ciara Doherty, a national broadcaster and qualified barrister.
Garry Martin. Director of Economic Development at Donegal County Council, Jimmy Kavanagh, Leas Cathaoirleach, Brenda Hegarty, Head of Enterprise, John McLaughlin, CE of Donegal County Council, and Mayor of the Letterkenny Milford MD, Cllr Gerry McMonagle attend the launch of the Local Enterprise Week brochure in the Local Enterprise Office in Letterkenny. Photo by Joe Dunne
The morning session will feature a panel of influential Donegal business leaders: Caroline Faulkner, who has had a distinguished 35-year career with Fortune 50 companies worldwide; Willie McCarter, former Managing Director of Fruit of the Loom and former Chair of the International Fund for Ireland; and Edward McDaid, who now leads his family business, Football Special.
In the afternoon, the focus shifts to leadership in sport, with talks from Joe Barr, World Ultra-Cycling Championship winner; Jim McGuinness, current Donegal GAA manager; and Patsy McGonagle, who founded Finn Valley AC in 1971 and managed Irish athletics teams for 25 years.
Speaking at the launch, Leas Cathaoirleach of Donegal County Council, Cllr. Jimmy Kavanagh said: “Local Enterprise Week is a great opportunity for any business, it’s a chance to pause, assess your progress, and explore opportunities for growth, innovation, and sustainability. It’s also a valuable time to discover the resources available right in your community. One of the most powerful aspects of Local Enterprise Week is how it brings businesses together and networking is at the heart of this year’s programme. The Local Enterprise Office is committed to fostering collaboration and facilitating business networking opportunities. These connections are not just valuable during Local Enterprise Week; they can spark partnerships and opportunities that last a lifetime.”
Adding to this, Head of Enterprise Donegal, Brenda Hegarty, said: “This year, our theme is ‘Believe,’ and we believe that Local Enterprise Week provides a fantastic opportunity for businesses across Donegal to connect with like-minded individuals, network, collaborate, and learn. Working alongside our valued stakeholders, we’ve put together an inspiring lineup of events that reflect our shared belief in the potential of Donegal businesses. The programme includes a diverse range of motivational speakers, practical workshops, and networking opportunities, all aimed at supporting and empowering businesses at every stage of their journey.”
Brenda Hegarty, Head of Enterprise, speaking at the launch of the Local Enterprise Week brochure in the Local Enterprise Office in Letterkenny. Photo by Joe Dunne
A number of online events are happening throughout the week, including ‘Adopting Digital and Green Technologies to Transform Your Tourism Business’, targeted at tourism SMEs. ‘Believe & Achieve: Essential Financial Insights for Growing Your Business’, is designed to empower business owners with the confidence and knowledge to navigate sustainable growth.
Details and bookings for all the events taking place during Local Enterprise Week, from March 3rd to 7th, are available at https://www.localenterprise.ie/Donegal/Enterprise-Development/Local-Enterprise-Week/
Book Here on www.localenterprise.ie/Donegal
