The Powerhouse Network is proud to launch the Powerhouse South East Innovation Summit an exciting new event in the regional innovation calendar, taking place at South East Technological University (SETU) Carlow on Thursday, 19th June, 2025. This event is designed for business owners, entrepreneurs, and students, offering an energising mix of insight, inspiration, and practical expertise. It is a great opportunity to engage with influential leaders and industry professionals who are shaping the future of business, innovation, and enterprise in the South East.
The summit will feature a keynote address by Sharon Keegan, founder of Peachy Lean, who will share her journey of resilience and brand-building. Attendees will also benefit from a Tech Talk on Artificial Intelligence in business led by Rob Brown of SETU, as well as strategic communications insights from Ellen Gunning, CEO of Mettacomms. Followed by a panel discussion, led by Gemma Purcell of SETU.
Cllr. Fergal Browne, Cathaoirleach of Carlow County Council said, “The Powerhouse South East Innovation Summit is a celebration of the South East’s vibrant entrepreneurial spirit and our commitment to future-focused growth. Events like this are vital to building a stronger, more resilient regional economy.” He continued to say, “Carlow County Council is proud to champion initiatives that unite local businesses, educational institutions, and community leaders, creating the conditions where fresh thinking can thrive and impactful partnerships can flourish.”
Melissa Doyle, Business Advisor with Carlow County Council’s Local Enterprise Office emphasised the summit’s goal of creating actionable value, “This summit is all about opening doors and bringing people together with the ideas, tools, and connections they need to turn ambition into action. With a lineup of experienced speakers and industry leaders, offering key insights and strategies to empower businesses and individuals to thrive.”
Echoing this, Gemma Purcell, Development Engineer in SETU Carlow said, “At SETU, we are committed to driving research and innovation that makes a real difference in our communities and economy. The Powerhouse South East Innovation Summit is an excellent platform to showcase how collaboration between academia, business, and industry can unlock new opportunities and accelerate growth. We are proud to support this event and look forward to the exciting ideas and partnerships it will inspire.”
This landmark event is presented through a strategic collaboration between Carlow County Council Local Enterprise Office, Carlow Library Service, County Carlow Chamber of Commerce, Carlow Kilkenny Skillnet, and South East Technological University (SETU).
As the first event of its kind under the Powerhouse Network, the Powerhouse South East Innovation Summit also marks a new chapter in creating a collaboration between education, enterprise, and economic development bodies in the South East. With a strong emphasis on real-world impact and regional growth, this event sets the stage for ongoing dialogue, partnership, and innovation-driven progress. Whether you are scaling a startup, growing an established company, or just beginning your entrepreneurial journey, the Powerhouse South East Innovation Summit offers the tools, knowledge, and connections to support your next step.
For more information or booking, please see https://www.localenterprise.ie/Carlow/
Please contact Melissa Doyle, Business Advisor, Local Enterprise Office on 059 91 29783 or mdoyle@carlowcoco.ie