A focused group of 18 local businesswomen came together this week for the first Powerhouse Business Break event, held on April 29th at Enterprise House, Carlow. Titled Wealth Creation & Financial Metrics, the session provided attendees with practical financial knowledge to drive growth, improve sustainability, and boost confidence in business decision-making.
The event is part of the Powerhouse Network initiative, a collaboration between Carlow County Council - Local Enterprise Office, Library Service, County Carlow Chamber of Commerce, Carlow Kilkenny Skillnet, and South East Technological University and is designed to support and empower businesswomen across the region.
The session featured financial expert insights from Melanie Guing Ryan of Midland Business Training, who broke down key concepts around wealth creation and financial metrics. Followed by Norah Ryan, Managing Director of Barrow Training & Consultancy, who shared her powerful personal journey and business leadership lessons. The event was facilitated by Nicola Doran, CEO of County Carlow Chamber of Commerce.
Cllr. Fergal Browne, Cathaoirleach of Carlow County Council, shared his strong support for the programme, “Initiatives like Powerhouse are a vital part of our economic future. By investing in the development of female entrepreneurs, we are creating stronger, more resilient communities. These events provide the space to learn, grow, and lead. Leadership is exactly what our local economy needs to thrive. We know that businesswomen bring innovation, sustainability, and collaboration into the heart of enterprise. It’s essential that we continue to provide targeted supports that remove barriers and inspire confidence. Carlow County Council is proud to champion this kind of forward-thinking approach to enterprise development.”
Melissa Doyle, Business Advisor, Carlow County Council’s Local Enterprise Office, reflected on the ongoing impact of the series, “Powerhouse Business Breaks are designed to spark practical change. They offer businesswomen the chance to gain clarity on key topics that can often feel overwhelming, like finance, strategy, and growth. They also provide a space to connect, ask questions, and build confidence. With the right knowledge and a strong network, sharper decisions are made and stronger businesses. That’s exactly what we are aiming to achieve with every session.”
Nicola Doran, CEO of County Carlow Chamber of Commerce, added, Carlow Chamber were delighted to be part of the first Powerhouse Business Break with Mel Ryan and featuring Norah Ryan - and we look forward to the next Business Break sessions later in the year. It was great to meet all of the participants, from so many different types of businesses, at different stages of development.' says Nicola Doran, CEO of County Carlow Chamber of Commerce. ' Sessions like this are so worthwhile as they offer not only the chance to get insightful and useful information, but also to hear first hand how another businesswoman has addressed these issues within her business. Norah's open, candid approach to how she applied her understanding of key financial metrics to build a strategy for growth was inspiring.”
Norah Ryan, Managing Director of Barrow Training & Consultancy, reflected, “It was an honour to speak to such a dynamic group of female entrepreneurs in Carlow about wealth creation and financial metrics. Sharing my own business journey — the wins, the lessons, and the real numbers — made for a powerful and open conversation. A truly inspiring event that reminded us all that financial confidence is a cornerstone of sustainable success."
The Powerhouse Network continues to deliver hands-on, peer-led sessions focused on practical business growth, leadership, and long-term resilience for women in business.
In the coming months, a series of exciting sessions will be held, offering businesswomen valuable opportunities to unlock their full potential. With places filling up fast, early booking is highly recommended:
- Powerhouse Digital for Business Academy: Unlock Digital Growth & Drive Business Success
15th May 2025 - Powerhouse Business Break: Opportunities for Utilising AI in SMEs
22nd July 2025 - Powerhouse Business Break: Branding on a Budget
30th September 2025
These upcoming sessions are just a few of the many ways to engage with the growing Powerhouse community, where collaboration, learning, and leadership are at the heart of success.
