Hub-Grow: Enterprise Growth, Innovation & Leadership Programme - Empowering rural enterprises to Scale, Innovate, and Succeed- A specialised initiative focused on providing rural business owners with access to critical supports, focused on the following themes:
The Hub-Grow: Enterprise Growth, Innovation & Leadership Programme (EGILP) is a structured business support initiative designed to help micro and small-sized enterprises strengthen their leadership, operations, financial management, and marketing strategies while embedding innovation into their business models.
This programme is delivered by Carlow Community Enterprise Centres in partnership with SETU and Carlow County Council - Local Enterprise Office & Wicklow County Council – Local Enterprise Office, ensuring enterprise have access to expert training, peer learning, innovation resources, and government supports.
Programme Format
Time: 8:00 AM – 10:00 AM
Location: The Station House, Hacketstown, County Carlow, part of the Rural Innovation Network
Structure:
- Business Speaker – Insights from industry leaders on key business challenges and opportunities.
- Facilitated Learning Process – Interactive workshops, case studies, and enterprise -focused discussions.
- Advice on Government Supports – Guidance on funding, grants, and innovation schemes.
- Innovation & Development Supports from SETU – Learn how to leverage SETU's expertise and resources for business growth.
Programme Structure
The programme is structured around four key pillars, each offering interactive workshops, expert coaching, and hands-on business support, with a core emphasis on innovation-led growth.
Pillar 1: Leadership, Strategy & Innovation - 30th April
Objective: Equip enterprise leaders with the skills to make strategic decisions, foster innovation, and drive long-term success.
Key Topics:
• Vision & Business Strategy Development
• Agile Leadership & Decision-Making
• Scaling & Growth Strategies
• Innovation-Led Leadership
• Peer Mentorship & Leadership Circles
Pillar 2: Operations, Digital Transformation & Innovation - 14th May
Objective: Help enterprises improve efficiency, adopt innovative technologies, and optimise workflows.
Key Topics:
• Process Improvement & Cost Efficiency
• Digital Tools & Automation for enterprise
• Supply Chain & Inventory Management
• Adapting Business Models to Market Trends
• Embedding Innovation into Operations
Pillar 3: Financial Management, Funding & Innovation - 28th May
Objective: Enhance financial planning, access to funding for innovation, and profitability.
Key Topics:
• Financial Planning & Budgeting for Growth
• Cost Reduction & Pricing Strategies
• Accessing Finance & Investment Readiness
• Tax & Compliance Guidance for enterprises
• Developing a Sustainable Financial Model
Pillar 4: Marketing, Customer Growth & Innovation - 11th June
Objective: Strengthen branding, increase customer engagement, leverage digital innovation, and drive sales.
Key Topics:
• Brand Positioning & Storytelling
• Digital Marketing for enterprise
• Sales & Customer Retention Strategies
• Expanding Market Reach & Business Networking
• Innovative Product & Service Development
Why Join the Programme?
- Gain insights from top business speakers on real-world challenges.
- Engage in facilitated learning with actionable takeaways for your enterprise.
- Access government supports & funding advice tailored for enterprises.
- Leverage SETU’s innovation & development supports to future-proof your business.
- Network with like-minded entrepreneurs and industry experts.
- Take your enterprise to the next level! Join the enterprise Growth, Innovation & Leadership Programme today at The Station House, Hacketstown.
Facilitated by Kieran Comerford – Head of Economic Development & Enterprise
Lead Trainer: Michael Ryan
Michael Ryan has a 20 year successful track record in operational and executive management at SME and Corporate level and understands the real-life challenges of running a business. During his executive career he reached the position of Managing Director of Independent News & Media’s local newspaper business in Ireland.
His extensive experience at both SME and Corporate level and as a business advisor includes:
• Strategic planning and implementation
• Restructuring and managing organisational change
• Cost management and maximising profitability
• Scaling and growing businesses
• Developing and managing high-performing teams
• Leadership development and mentoring
• Idea validation and development
• Developing and transitioning to digital platforms
With his experience and skills, he adds value to businesses by advising on strategy, leadership and business organisation and supports businesses and their leaders to help them take advantage of opportunities and to navigate through challenges.
Lead Mentor: John Brophy
John Brophy DipSCM MSCSI MRICS
John Brophy is a Chartered Surveyor specialising in Commercial Property Management, with a particular focus on retail commercial property. Since 1997, he has managed six shopping centres, including Fairgreen Shopping Centre in Carlow and Blackrock Centre in Dublin, where he worked with Superquinn Property Management.
Prior to his career in property management, John operated his own retail shops in ILAC, Dun Laoghaire, and Northside Shopping Centres in Dublin. With experience in retail dating back to 1977, John likes to think he is finally getting the hang of it.
John is committed to community involvement and giving back. He is a former President of both County Carlow and Dun Laoghaire Chambers and continues to serve on the board, and previously the Board of Chambers Ireland. Additionally, he has held roles as Chairman, Secretary, and Treasurer of the Shopping Centre Managers Association of Ireland and served as the Irish delegate to the British Council of Shopping Centres (now REVO).
Outside of his commercial work, John is Chairperson of Delta Disability Services, former Chair of the Local Community Development Committee (LCDC), and Vice Chair of County Carlow Development Partnership. He is also a member of the South East Joint Policing Committee, former Chair of the Board Oversight Committee for Carlow Credit Union, and a past board member.
In his leisure time, John has served as Chairman and Secretary of Éire Óg CLG and is currently a member of the Carlow County Board of the GAA.
