National Women's Enterprise Day - Midlands Regional Event 2026 (LEO's Westmeath, Laois, Longford and Offaly)

National Women's Enterprise Day (NWED) 2026 takes place on Thursday, October 15, 2026. Organised by Ireland's Local Enterprise Offices, it is the country's largest annual initiative celebrating female entrepreneurship, offering regional networking, expert speakers, and business support showcases across multiple venues nationwide.

This year's Midlands Regional event takes place at The Village Barn, Tyrrellspass and will be facilitated by our MC, Courtney Callaghan - Broadcast Journalist, Producer and Presenter with Midlands 103. 

• Founder of Fusion Fashion & Entertainment.
  Entrepreneur, musician and media professional.
  Experienced event host and interviewer.
  Strong understanding of business, branding and personal promotion.
  Well-connected across the Midlands business and community sectors.
  Brings energy, professionalism and audience engagement to live events.

GUEST SPEAKERS

• Fiona Matthews
  Group Chief Commercial Officer at Applegreen.
  Former Managing Director of Applegreen Ireland.
  Mullingar native with strong Westmeath roots.
  Winner of CEO of the Year at the IMAGE PwC Businesswoman of the Year Awards.
  Played a key role in the launch and growth of Braeburn Coffee and the M&S Food partnership within Applegreen.
  Former senior leader with The Walt Disney Company, Kepak and Glanbia.

• Denise Buckley
  Founder of Wholesome Kitchen, a successful restaurant, catering and food business in Mullingar.
  Founder of Sugar Plum Sweetery, a national gifting and confectionery brand.
  Former senior retail manager with over 16 years' experience in the retail sector.
  Successfully identified market gaps and built multiple businesses from the ground up.
  Passionate advocate for supporting local enterprise and shopping local.

• Helen Conneely
  Owner and Founder of Celtic Roots Studio.
  Award-winning sculptor, designer and creative entrepreneur.
  Creates bespoke sculptures, awards and public art commissions.
  Delivers experiential artisan workshops and creative experiences.
  Successfully built a business rooted in Irish heritage, craft and storytelling.
  Experienced in developing unique products and experiences for national and international clients.

• Sarah Jane Foster
  Founder & CEO of The RAW Network.
  Founder of SJF Productions and media entrepreneur.
  Award-winning presenter, podcaster and content creator.
  Building a global platform focused on supporting and monetising creative talent.
  Passionate advocate for female entrepreneurship and founder communities in the Midlands.
  Strong advocate for innovation, technology and the future of the creative industries.

FREE Goodie Bag for all attendees