National Women’s Enterprise Day 2025

October 16th, 2025

Venue: The Boot Factory, Mullan Village, Emyvale, Monaghan. H18 EC98

Time: 10.30am – 1.00pm

Calling all female entrepreneurs and professionals…

Local Enterprise Office Monaghan invites you to celebrate National Women’s Enterprise Day 2025 at the stunning Boot Factory in Mullan Village. This landmark event is part of Ireland’s enterprise calendar and is designed to highlight the achievements of women in business, while inspiring and equipping others to take the next steps on their entrepreneurial journey.

This year’s theme centres on ‘Empowering Women, Together’ —celebrating the creativity, vision and determination of women who are shaping the future of business, both locally and nationally.

The morning will feature a thought-provoking keynote address from Laura Dowling, better known as The Fabulous Pharmacist, a passionate advocate for women’s health whose engaging approach to breaking down barriers has made her a trusted voice across Ireland. Adding warmth, energy, and expertise to the event is Gráinne McElwain, Monaghan’s own award-winning broadcaster and highly sought-after MC, who will host conversations with inspiring female leaders including NWED Ambassador, Tara Gartlan, founder of the multi-award-winning Tara Gartlan Chocolate.

Whether you are just starting out in business or scaling for growth, this is your chance to:

• Learn from practical insights and inspiration
• Connect with like-minded women in business
• Celebrate leadership, resilience, and creativity

Your MC

Gráinne McElwain is a sports and entertainment presenter from County Monaghan. Over her 15-year broadcasting career she has worked with TG4, RTÉ, the BBC, Sky Sports, and GAAGO, presenting everything from live GAA championship coverage to high-profile entertainment shows. As an MC and event host, she has collaborated with leading organisations including AIB, Allianz, Bord Gáis Energy, Paralympics Ireland, and the Pittsburgh Steelers. Her wealth of experience, coupled with her engaging and approachable style, make her the ideal host for this year’s National Women’s Enterprise Day in Monaghan.

Your Guest Speaker

Laura Dowling – The Fabulous Pharmacist is a pharmacist, content creator, and women’s health advocate. Through her work in pharmacy and her highly successful online platforms, Laura has made it her mission to break down taboos surrounding female health and wellbeing. She is the creator of Viva La Vulva, a groundbreaking show that has brought vital conversations about women’s health to the mainstream, combining medical expertise with warmth, humour, and accessibility. Laura’s keynote will inspire attendees to embrace authenticity, challenge outdated narratives, and build businesses with purpose and visibility.

Your NWED Ambassador

Tara Gartlan is the founder of Tara Gartlan Chocolate in Carrickmacross, Co. Monaghan. Having honed her craft in some of Ireland’s most celebrated restaurants, Tara was an integral part of teams awarded two Michelin stars, Tara turned her focus to entrepreneurship following the challenges of the pandemic. As a coeliac herself, she set out to create gluten-free artisan chocolates of the highest standard, winning multiple awards and establishing her brand as one of Ireland’s most exciting food businesses. Tara’s story reflects determination, creativity, and a passion for excellence.