The economic vitality of any County is inextricably linked to the success and resilience of its local business community. Recognizing this, the Economic Development Unit of Carlow County Council has launched is hosting a series of networking and information events during May 2026 to support local SME’s in gaining further state supports in their business.
The primary objective of these sessions is to demystify the often-complex landscape of business assistance. Many business owners are aware that grants, training, and funding opportunities exist, but navigating the specific requirements for the Local Enterprise Office (LEO), Economic Development services, and EU funding projects can be a daunting prospect. This initiative is designed to provide clarity, offering a platform where business owners can learn how to "package" their needs effectively to access the resources that best match their specific challenges and opportunities.
Central to this initiative is the direct accessibility of the Council’s advisory team. Rather than relying solely on digital communication, the Council is facilitating face-to-face interaction. The advisory team comprised of Kieran , Seamus, Dearbhla, Sarah, Linda, and Lisa will be present at every session to provide expert guidance. Kieran Comerford, Head of Economic Development & Enterprise, underscores the necessity of this grassroots approach:
"We understand that navigating the landscape of supports, grants, and funding can be complex. That is why we are hitting the road this May. Whether you are a startup or an established firm, our goal is to ensure you know exactly what is available to you from LEO training and mentoring to EU project funding. We look forward to meeting with business owners in Carlow Town, Bagenalstown, and Tullow to discuss their unique challenges and potential for growth."
This sentiment is echoed by Cathaoirleach of Carlow County Council. Cllr. Ken Murnane emphasizes the broader vision behind these events, viewing them as a cornerstone for long-term economic stability in the county:
"Supporting our local business community is a top priority for the Council. These events are a fantastic opportunity for business owners to get face-to-face with our team, ask questions, and discover the practical resources available to help them grow and thrive. I encourage everyone to come along, network with peers, and see how we can work together to ensure Carlow remains a vibrant place to do business."
To accommodate the varied schedules of local business owners, the Council has curated a diverse series of meeting formats, including "Lunch and Learn" sessions and "Business After Hours" events. The schedule is as follows:
- 13th May (Carlow Town): Hosted at Enterprise House from 12:30 pm to 2:00 pm.
- 20th May (Bagenalstown): Hosted at The Old Post Office from 5:30 pm to 6:30 pm.
- 27th May (Tullow): Hosted at The Tara Arms from 12:30 pm to 2:00 pm.
Ultimately, these events serve as more than just information sessions; they are community-building exercises. By bringing business owners together, the Council is creating an environment where shared challenges can be discussed, peer networks can be strengthened, and a unified vision for Carlow’s economic future can be fostered. For the local business owner, this series represents a significant opportunity to move beyond daily operations and engage with the resources necessary to scale, innovate, and succeed. For further information call 059-9129783 or e-mail enterprise@carlowcoco.ie
Booking Links:
Carlow: LEO Lunch and Learn Roadshow 2026 - Carlow - Local Enterprise Office - Carlow
Bagenalstown: LEO Business After Hours Roadshow 2026 - Bagenalstown - Local Enterprise Office - Carlow
Tullow: LEO Lunch and Learn Roadshow 2026 - Tullow - Local Enterprise Office - Carlow