County Carlow Chamber has joined Club Carlow and Carlow County Council’s Local Enterprise Office as a partner for the 2026 Club Carlow Business Summit, further strengthening a collaborative initiative that has quickly become one of the county’s flagship business events.
Taking place at the Woodford Dolmen Hotel on Friday, 6 November, from 11.00am to 3.00pm, the summit, titled “Breaking the Ceiling in Sport and Business,” will bring together leading figures from business and sport to share insights on leadership, resilience and high performance. The event aims to inspire entrepreneurs, business owners, managers and professionals to challenge boundaries, realise their potential and unlock new opportunities for growth and success.
This year’s exceptional line-up features renowned rugby coach Joe Schmidt, champion jockey Rachael Blackmore, Keelings Group’s Caroline Keeling and Kingspan CEO Gene Murtagh. Through a series of in-depth interviews and fireside conversations, the speakers will share personal experiences of leadership, resilience, high performance and decision-making under pressure, exploring what it takes to break through barriers and achieve success at the highest level.
The summit draws inspiration from the values underpinning successful businesses and sporting organisations, including teamwork, determination, adaptability and a commitment to continuous improvement. Attendees will gain practical insights from leaders who have excelled at the highest levels, while also having opportunities to build new connections and strengthen existing relationships within Carlow’s business community.
David Walsh, Chairperson of Club Carlow, said the event had been created to support and inspire ambitious CEOs and their leadership teams across the county.
“The Club Carlow Business Summit is about bringing together people who are striving to achieve more, whether in business, sport or their communities. The calibre of speakers this year is exceptional, and each has a unique story of overcoming challenges, developing high-performing teams and building lasting success.
“‘Breaking the Ceiling in Sport and Business’ is about challenging ourselves to think bigger, overcome perceived limitations and recognise what is possible when ambition is matched by determination, leadership and teamwork. We want attendees to leave with fresh ideas, renewed ambition and a greater understanding of what it takes to achieve sustained success.”
Highlighting the importance of the event, Cathaoirleach of Carlow County Council, Cllr Tommy Kinsella, emphasised the value of strong local networks in supporting economic and community development.
“Carlow’s greatest strength has always been its people. Our businesses, community organisations and sporting clubs all demonstrate the power of collaboration, resilience and shared purpose. Events such as the Club Carlow Business Summit provide an important opportunity to celebrate those strengths, encourage new connections and support the continued growth and success of our county.”
Norah Ryan, President of County Carlow Chamber, welcomed the partnership and highlighted the importance of collaboration in strengthening the local business community.
“Business success is built on relationships, leadership and the ability to adapt and respond to change. As the voice of business in the county, County Carlow Chamber is committed to creating opportunities for businesses to connect, collaborate and grow.
“By bringing together influential voices from business and sport, this summit offers valuable lessons that can help organisations of all sizes navigate challenges and seize new opportunities. The theme, ‘Breaking the Ceiling in Sport and Business’, is particularly relevant in today’s environment, encouraging individuals and organisations to challenge limits, embrace ambition and strive for excellence.
“We are delighted to join the partnership behind this event and to support an initiative that showcases leadership excellence while strengthening the connections that drive business success across Carlow.”
Now in its second year, the Club Carlow Business Summit has firmly established itself as a key event in Carlow’s business calendar. By bringing together influential voices from business and sport, it provides a unique platform for learning, networking and collaboration, helping to strengthen the relationships that support economic growth and business success across the county.
As part of the new partnership with County Carlow Chamber, Chamber members can avail of individual tickets for the event.
Tickets can be booked through Club Carlow by calling 085 809 8211 or emailing operations.carlow@gaa.ie.