Powerhouse: Empowering Businesswomen  

The Powerhouse Network is a dynamic community dedicated to empowering woman entrepreneurs and professionals. It provides the connections, tools, and inspiration needed to excel in their careers and businesses. 

The network is part of the South East support eco-System which is designed to be a catalyst for businesswomen in developing their professional network in order to develop and drive their business from a turnover, employment and sustainability viewpoint while also providing a forum for peer support for business challenges. 

The network is run as a collaboration between Carlow County Council’s Local Enterprise Office and Library Service, County Carlow Chamber, Carlow Kilkenny Skillnet, South East Technological University and the Kilkenny and Carlow Education and Training Board. Together, these organisations work to create an inclusive and supportive platform for businesswomen to thrive. 

With a foundation built on three core pillars, the network ensures its members receive comprehensive support to succeed: 

Support 

Powerhouse fosters a strong network where businesswomen can build meaningful relationships, gain peer support, and access practical business advice. It offers a space to share experiences, challenges, and achievements, creating a collective spirit of resilience and growth. 

Inspiration 

Through engaging events and access to industry leaders, the network inspires its members to aim higher. Learning from seasoned professionals and successful businesswomen, members are encouraged to embrace opportunities and drive impactful change in their businesses and careers. 

Learning 

Powerhouse equips its members with essential skills, actionable strategies, and cutting-edge business insights. Tailored programs and workshops ensure that members are equipped to navigate a competitive landscape while advancing their knowledge and expertise. 

How to become a member

Powerhouse aims to be an accessible network for businesswomen and operates on a pay as you go model. Businesswomen become a member following attendance at their first paid activity with the Network. Members will: 

• Receive regular Powrhouse newsletter with news and training updates 

• Submit Content for Promotion on the Powerhouse LinkedIn & Facebook Accounts 

The Network is for Carlow-based businesswomen. The Powerhouse Women in Business Network programme for 2026 is designed to empower, connect, and inspire our members. This program focuses on fostering support, inspiration, and learning through a series of impactful events and initiatives. 

Support-Focused Events 

• International Women’s Day: 8th March 2026: Celebrates and honours the achievements of women in business globally, fostering empowerment and recognition.
• National Women’s Enterprise Day: 17th October 2026: Highlights and connects women entrepreneurs across the country, creating opportunities for collaboration and shared success. 

Powerhouse Business Breaks Series 2026  

These two-hour sessions are designed to bring members together to learn and connect with each other. The topic for each Powerhouse Business Break has been carefully selected, and the material has been thoughtfully curated: 

• Powerhouse Business Break – Networking – 16th April 2026
• Powerhouse Business Break – Sales & Marketing: Social Media That Sells – 11th June 2026
• Powerhouse Business Break – Networking – 13th August 2026
• Powerhouse Business Break – Financial Empowerment & Literacy Strategy – 12th November 2026

Book all four Powerhouse Business Breaks for €80 via this link; giving you sustained support, learning and networking across a range of key business topics throughout the program. Spaces are limited so early booking is strongly advised.

This Programme 2026 reflects Powerhouse’s commitment to supporting businesswomen through meaningful connections, inspiring leadership, and transformative learning opportunities. By leveraging the expertise and resources of key partners including Carlow County Council’s Local Enterprise Office and Library Service, County Carlow Chamber, Carlow Kilkenny Skillnet, SouthEast Technological University and the Kilkenny and Carlow Education & Training Board. Powerhouse ensures women entrepreneurs have the tools and community they need to thrive. 

Information on events and activities can be found here: Online Bookings - Carlow (localenterprise.ie)