The entrepreneurial potential of women has been highlighted for the last ten years by policy makers in Europe and nationally and a range of supports have been introduced to encourage their greater involvement in entrepreneurial activity. With almost 1,000 women setting up a new business in Ireland each month, is the gender gap finally closed? Why are more women being encouraged to become entrepreneurs?  Paula Fitzsimons, an expert on entrepreneurship, will draw on the findings of the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM) to answer these questions and to reveal insights into women and entrepreneurship across a range of countries.

The keynote address will be delivered by Rachel Doyle, managing director of Arboretum Home & Garden Heaven in Leighlinbridge, Co. Carlow, Retail Excellence Ireland National Store of the Year 2015.

Two cast studies will be presented on the day, Veronica Molloy from Crossogue Preserves Limited, Ballycahill, Thurles and Majella Ryan, Ivowen Limited Clonmel.

Manager Female Entrepreneurship Jean O'Sullivan at Enterprise Ireland will talk on the Going for Growth initiative and EI's interventions and progress to date.  Jean is responsible for developing new women in business initiatives to support ambitious women with business proposals that have the potential for high growth and employment. Jean O'Sullivan has worked in numerous roles, most recently with high-potential start-up companies across numerous sectors. Prior to this, she spent 10 years in industrial relations and human resources management roles.

The moderator for the event will be Sinead Carr Director of Services, Economic & Community Development & Clonmel Borough District, Tipperary County Council. The Directorate is involved in actively marketing the County, identifying and supporting inward investment, assisting the establishment of new and the growth of existing businesses in a range of sectors, providing incubation and workspace and ensuring that the enterprise ecosystem is meeting the needs of emerging sectors. Developing a strong enterprise culture in the County is a priority and the Local Enterprise Office, established in the Local Authority in April 2014, delivers on the economic and enterprise development function.

Venue:   Horse & Jockey Hotel, Thurles

Date:      Wednesday 22 April 2015

Time:     09.30am to 2.00pm (including lunch)

Timetable

9am            Registration