Businesswomen Celebrated at Mid-West National Women’s Enterprise Day

Women entrepreneurs from Limerick, Clare and Tipperary came together at the Dunraven Arms Hotel in Adare on Thursday, 15 October, for National Women’s Enterprise Day 2026, celebrating innovation, ambition and the power of women supporting women in business.

Organised by the Local Enterprise Offices in Limerick, Clare and Tipperary, the event featured an inspiring keynote from sisters Ailbhe and Izzy Keane, founders of the internationally recognised Irish brand Izzy Wheels. Their story of creativity, entrepreneurship and inclusive design earned them a standing ovation, highlighting the impact that purpose-driven businesses can have on a global scale.

The panel discussion featured three inspiring female entrepreneurs: Roberta Gannon of Pet Sláinte, Orla Daly of CAYO, and Emma Doherty of Spellings for Me. Their businesses demonstrate the diversity of women-led enterprise, showcasing innovation and entrepreneurial ambition across different sectors.

The event provided an opportunity for women at every stage of their business journey to connect, share experiences, learn from one another and build valuable relationships. Discussions highlighted the importance of networking, collaboration, mentorship and access to enterprise supports in helping women overcome challenges, identify opportunities and grow successful businesses.

Aideen Corry, Senior Enterprise Development Officer with Local Enterprise Office Limerick, said: “National Women’s Enterprise Day is a valuable opportunity to celebrate the achievements of women in business and recognise the importance of connection, collaboration and shared learning. Bringing women entrepreneurs together from across Limerick, Clare and Tipperary creates opportunities to build relationships, exchange ideas and inspire the next generation of women-led businesses.”

National Women’s Enterprise Day is an annual initiative designed to promote, encourage and stimulate female entrepreneurship across Ireland. Led by the Local Enterprise Offices in partnership with Enterprise Ireland, it shines a spotlight on women in business while highlighting the advice, training, mentoring and other supports available to help entrepreneurs start and grow their businesses.

By bringing women together from across the Mid-West, the event reinforced the value of a strong regional business community where entrepreneurs can exchange ideas, build confidence and create connections that extend well beyond the day itself.

The gathering celebrated not only the achievements of established entrepreneurs but also the importance of creating an environment in which more women feel encouraged, connected and supported to start, develop and grow their own businesses.

For additional information about events and supports please go to: https://www.localenterprise.ie/