Small businesses and budding entrepreneurs will have the opportunity to sample 6 events aimed at helping them to start or grow their business as part of this year’s Local Enterprise Week in Carlow. The initiative of the Local Enterprise Offices, supported by Enterprise Ireland and the local authorities, takes place from the 2nd to the 6th March this year across the country.
While there are hundreds of events taking place nationally during the week, there are plenty of events in Carlow open to all. These events will focus on diverse topics such as tourism, management development, AI and female entrepreneurship.
Examples of those taking part in Local Enterprise Week include Rory King from ‘Rory’s Travel Club’ who will host a workshop in Arboretum, Leighlinbridge on growing tourism businesses and prominent business advisor Blaise Brosnan who will deliver a business management masterclass in Station House, Hacketstown.
Each of the 31 Local Enterprise Offices will be running a full programme of events in their area that will cover a variety of topics relevant to small businesses and those starting up. The events are open to all, from budding entrepreneurs to established businesses and offers the opportunity to get expert advice on key areas of business from raising funds, improving your online presence, the benefits of AI, to how to make your business more productive and save money.
Speaking ahead of Local Enterprise Week, Kieran Comerford, Head of Economic Development & Enterprise in Carlow County Council said “Local Enterprise Week is an important milestone for any business. It offers a chance to pause, take stock, and consider where you can grow; whether that’s through innovation, sustainability, or simply exploring the supports available right here in Carlow. There is something for everyone, and for those who have long dreamed of starting their own venture or bringing a new idea to life, this is the ideal week to learn how to take that first step and turn ambition into action.
“With hundreds of events taking place nationwide, from exploring the potential of AI, to learning how to begin exporting, to adopting more sustainable practices or starting a new business, there is a wealth of opportunity. With an exceptional line-up of events on your doorstep, I would encourage everyone to engage, participate, and make the most of what’s on offer.”
The Local Enterprise Offices located in the local authorities and funded through Enterprise Ireland support thousands of small Irish businesses and entrepreneurs nationwide. Since their establishment in 2014 they have been for the first stop for entrepreneurs and small businesses and providing a range of supports including funding, mentoring, training and sector specific expertise to help guide businesses at any stage of their development.
They also run key initiatives to foster entrepreneurship across the country including Local Enterprise Week, National Women’s Enterprise Day, the Student Enterprise Programme and the National Enterprise Awards. The Local Enterprise Offices are also running a campaign encouraging small businesses to save time money and energy by availing of their competitiveness and productivity supports including Green, Lean and Digital for Business. www.AllInADaysWork.ie For more information on the Local Enterprise Offices go to www.LocalEnterprise.ie
Cllr. Ken Murnane, Cathaoirleach of Carlow County Council, added “Local Enterprise Week is a highlight in the business calendar each year, and I am delighted to see it return with such a strong programme for 2026. This week is all about supporting our local Carlow businesses, helping them to grow, innovate, and build for the future. Carlow has an incredibly proud entrepreneurial spirit, and Local Enterprise Week gives every business owner the chance to tap into new ideas, expert advice, and practical supports that can make a real difference.
“I strongly encourage all Carlow business owners, whether long‑established or just starting out, to take part in the events taking place. The opportunities on offer, from upskilling to networking to exploring new technologies, are invaluable. By getting involved, you are investing in both your business and in the continued success of County Carlow.”
Details for all the events taking place across the country during Local Enterprise Week, from March 2nd to 6th March, are available at www.LocalEnterprise.ie/Week