National Women’s Enterprise Day (NWED) is an initiative of the Local Enterprise Offices that aims to encourage female entrepreneurship and support women in business across the country.

Now in its 17th year, NWED takes place across Ireland on Thursday, 17th October. Local Enterprise Office Donegal is marking the day with a free event in Lough Eske Castle on Thursday, 17th October from 6pm.

National Women’s Enterprise Day strives to empower even more women to set up their own businesses and to increase national recognition of the essential role played by Ireland’s female entrepreneurs.

This event will consist of inspiring speakers, a panel discussion featuring local businesses, networking opportunities and the chance to meet your local enterprise support agency representatives.

Through the Local Enterprise Office and Enterprise Ireland, female entrepreneurs have access to a broad range of assistance—everything from training and development programmes to financial incentives. While these supports are available year-round, National Women’s Enterprise Day brings a unique focus to female entrepreneurship.

Host and MC for the event is Grainne McCoy, Semi-Finalist on The Apprentice in 2016, owner of the beauty brand, ‘Give Us Beauty’ and a presenter on Q Radio. Grainne will be joined by keynote speaker, Dr. Sabina Brennan, a chartered health psychologist, neuroscientist, author, and host of the Super Brain podcast. 

Joining them is this year’s National Women’s Enterprise Day Donegal Ambassador, Diane Nesbitt, creator and chief baker of Purple Velvet Luxury Treats. Diane’s work nods to a nostalgic connection to the flavours of our childhood.

Panelists Carole Boyd of Pearls and Lace Bridal, and Maureen Cuddihy, co-director of the multi-award winning Welditz Engineering business in Inishowen, will share their knowledge and experience of growing their respective brands and businesses.

The theme of this year’s National Women’s Enterprise Day is “Making It Happen” which will be reflected in events taking place across the country, supported by Enterprise Ireland and the Local Authorities. 

Brenda Hegarty, Head of Enterprise Donegal said: “National Women’s Enterprise Day is Ireland’s largest event dedicated to promoting, encouraging, and empowering female entrepreneurship. Designed and led by women, this annual event shines a spotlight on the contributions of women to Ireland’s business landscape. This year, we’re delighted to have some amazing speakers and inspirational businesswomen join us in Lough Eske Castle.

“If you have that itch to start a business, or maybe you are already running a business, then this is the event for you.

“It can help you grow your network, find out what supports are available and learn from those who have gone before. Events like this are important in supporting positive improvement, providing women entrepreneurs and those considering starting a business with insights from leading businesswomen and introducing them to a network of entrepreneurs who are blazing a trail in the Irish market and overseas. Get registered and be a part of Ireland’s biggest celebration of women in business!”

National Women’s Enterprise Day events will cover a range of topics and are open to all aspiring female entrepreneurs, existing female business owners and anyone who wants to learn more about entrepreneurship and the topics being discussed on the day. For more information and to book your spot, register here: https://www.localenterprise.ie/Donegal/Training-Events/Online-Bookings/NWED.html