National Women’s Enterprise Day (NWED) is an initiative of the Local Enterprise Offices that aims to encourage female entrepreneurship and support women in business across the country. Now in its 17th year, NWED took place across Ireland and the Local Enterprise Office in Donegal marked the day with an event in Lough Eske Castle.

Head of Enterprise Donegal, Brenda Hegarty, alongside panelists and speakers from the recent National Women’s Enterprise Day celebration in Lough Eske Castle.

Brenda Hegarty, Head of Enterprise Donegal said: “National Women’s Enterprise Day strives to empower even more women to set up their own businesses and to increase national recognition of the essential role played by Ireland’s female entrepreneurs. Our event in Donegal Town brought together a host of inspiring speakers, insightful panel discussions featuring local businesses, networking opportunities and the chance to meet local enterprise support agency representatives. Through the Local Enterprise Office and Enterprise Ireland, female entrepreneurs have access to a broad range of assistance—everything from training and development programmes to financial incentives. While these supports are available year-round, National Women’s Enterprise Day brings a unique focus to female entrepreneurship.”

MC for NWED was Grainne McCoy, a semi-finalist on The Apprentice 2016, owner of the beauty brand, 'Give Us Beauty' and a presenter on Q Radio.

Host and MC for the event was Grainne McCoy, Semi-Finalist on The Apprentice in 2016, owner of the beauty brand, 'Give Us Beauty' and a presenter on Q Radio. Grainne brought great energy to the event, facilitating discussions among keynote speakers and panelists who shared practical advice, motivational tips, and networking advice, which resonated strongly with attendees, encouraging further growth and collaboration among women in business. Grainne was joined by keynote speaker, Dr. Sabina Brennan, a chartered health psychologist, neuroscientist, author, and host of the Super Brain podcast, who shared fascinating insights about the human brain and gave practical tips on how we can make it happen in our lives and business.

Keynote speaker, Dr. Sabina Brennan, a chartered health psychologist, neuroscientist, author, and host of the Super Brain podcast.

Joining them was this year’s National Women’s Enterprise Day Donegal Ambassador, Diane Nesbitt, creator and chief baker of Purple Velvet Luxury Treats. Panelists Carole Boyd of Pearls and Lace Bridal, and Maureen Cuddihy, co-director of the multi-award winning Welditz Engineering business in Inishowen, brought the event to a close by sharing their knowledge and experience of growing their respective brands and businesses.

Owner and creator of Purple Velvet Luxury Treats, Diane Nesbitt sharing her insights on how to be a successful woman in business. 

National Women’s Enterprise Day is Ireland’s largest event dedicated to promoting, encouraging, and empowering female entrepreneurship. Designed and led by women, this annual event shines a spotlight on the contributions of women to Ireland’s business landscape. 

MC Grainne McCoy interacting with the audience at the Donegal NWED event in Lough Eske Castle.

The theme of this year’s National Women’s Enterprise Day was “Making It Happen” which was reflected in the events that took place across the country, supported by Enterprise Ireland and the Local Authorities.  

Pictured (L-R): Owner of Purple Velvet Luxury Treats, Diane Nesbitt, Carole Boyd of Pearls and Lace Bridal, Maureen Cuddihy, co-director of the multi-award winning Welditz Engineering business in Inishowen and MC Grainne McCoy.

For more information visit the Local Enterprise Office webpage here: https://www.localenterprise.ie/donegal