Join us for a festive and inspiring afternoon at the Festive Fusion: Powerhouse lunch, celebrating the achievements of 2025 and looking ahead to an exciting year in 2026. Carlow County Council Local Enterprise Office, Carlow Library Service, County Carlow Chamber, Carlow Kilkenny Skillnet, and Southeast Technological University invite you to Festive Fusion: Powerhouse Lunch on Tuesday 9th December 2025, 12-2pm in the Woodford Dolmen Hotel, Carlow.

This special event brings together businesswomen from across Co. Carlow for an afternoon of networking and inspiration. It is the final Powerhouse event of the year, making it a perfect opportunity to reflect, connect, and look forward to 2026 and the possibilities of exporting to Northern Ireland.

We are delighted to welcome Naomh McElhatton as our keynote speaker. Recently named Northern Ireland’s Most Inspirational Woman in STEM, Naomh is a dynamic entrepreneur, AI strategist, and mentor with over two decades of experience helping businesses harness innovation for growth. As the Irish Ambassador for Women in AI and founder of the Business of AI Club, Naomh brings a wealth of insight into how technology, collaboration, and cross-border trade can drive business success.

Naomh will share her entrepreneurial journey and highlight why Northern Ireland is an attractive and accessible market for businesses in Carlow. Naomh will also discuss opportunities for Irish businesses interested in trading in Northern Ireland and will share details of our upcoming Powerhouse trade mission to Northern Ireland in 2026.

Following Naomh’s address, we will hear from Lindsay Malone, CEO of Carlow Kilkenny ETB, who will share her story of leadership and lifelong learning. Guests will also enjoy a delicious lunch and the chance to connect with fellow businesswomen – building relationships, sharing experiences, and planning for the year ahead.

Agenda highlights:

• 12:00pm: Opening Words – Nicola Doran – CEO – Carlow Chamber
• 12:05pm: Welcome address – Dearbhla O’Dwyer – Business Advisor – Carlow County Council
• 12.10pm: Keynote address – Naomh McElhatton
• 12:40: My Leadership Story – Lindsay Malone, CEO of Carlow Kilkenny ETB
• 12:55pm: Closing remarks & best wishes for 2026 – Norah Ryan – President County Carlow Chamber
• 1:00pm: Lunch

Don’t miss this chance to celebrate, connect, and be inspired as we wrap up another successful year of the Powerhouse network.

Spaces are limited. Book your place today to join the Powerhouse lunch.