LEO Laois, together with LEO Longford, LEO Offaly and LEO Westmeath, is inviting female entrepreneurs, business owners and aspiring founders to attend this year's National Women's Enterprise Day (NWED), which marks the 20th anniversary of the nationwide initiative supporting and celebrating women in business.

Taking place on Thursday, 15 October 2026 at The Village Barn, Tyrrellspass, the Midlands regional event will bring together women at all stages of business for a morning of inspiration, networking and practical business insights.

The event will be hosted by broadcaster and entrepreneur Courtney Callaghan and will feature a panel of accomplished business leaders and entrepreneurs including Fiona Matthews, Group Chief Commercial Officer at Applegreen; Denise Buckley, founder of Wholesome Kitchen and Sugar Plum Sweetery; Helen Conneely, founder of Celtic Roots Studio; and Sarah Jane Foster, founder and CEO of The RAW Network.

Speakers will share their experiences of building and growing successful businesses, overcoming challenges and identifying opportunities for innovation and growth.

Lisa Molloy, Head of Enterprise, Local Enterprise Office Laois, said:

"National Women's Enterprise Day is about inspiring more women to start, grow and scale successful businesses. Every year we see the ambition, talent and innovation of female entrepreneurs across Laois, and this event is an opportunity to connect, learn and leave with practical ideas and supports to help move your business forward."

Speaking at the national launch in The Village Barn last week, Peter Burke, T.D., Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, said: “National Women’s Enterprise Day is a hugely important date in the enterprise calendar. It is an opportunity to recognise the real progress that has been made in supporting women in business across Ireland. It is also a celebration of the ambition, innovation and resilience of female entrepreneurs who are building successful businesses in sectors from agtech and manufacturing to fashion and food.

“These are business leaders with the drive and confidence to grow beyond Ireland and compete on the global stage. As we look ahead, we must continue to ensure that women entrepreneurs have access to the supports, networks and opportunities they need to start, scale and succeed.”

National Women's Enterprise Day events take place across the country each year, showcasing inspiring entrepreneurs, business leaders and expert speakers while highlighting the supports available through the Local Enterprise Office network.

Whether attendees are considering starting a business, are in the early stages of their entrepreneurial journey or are looking to grow an established enterprise, the event offers an opportunity to gain valuable insights, make new connections and explore supports for business development.

For more information and to register, visit www.LocalEnterprise.ie/NWED.