News

In an effort to support and promote local businesses, Carlow County Council , Carlow Chamber, Carlow Tourism, and Network Ireland have launched the ShopLocalShopCarlow Digital Campaign. This initiative aims to enhance the online presence of retailers, hospitality businesses, and service providers across Carlow at no cost, offering them an unparalleled opportunity to reach new customers and strengthen their digital marketing strategies.

Carlow Community Enterprise Centres, in collaboration with South East Technological University (SETU), Carlow County Council – Local Enterprise Office, and Wicklow County Council – Local Enterprise Office, is delighted to announce the launch of two transformative business support programmes—Hub Start – Rural Enterprise Start-Up Programme and Hub Grow – Enterprise Growth, Innovation & Leadership Programme. Both initiatives are designed to empower rural entrepreneurs and business owners with the knowledge, skills, and networks to succeed in today’s competitive market. Taking place at Station House, Hacketstown, these programmes will provide structured guidance, expert mentorship, and access to key enterprise supports, strengthening Carlow’s rural business ecosystem.

Communities around the county now have an opportunity borrow a free clothes swap kit from Carlow County Council thanks to an initiative from Dee Sewell, Environmental Awareness Officer.

The highly anticipated relaunch of Powerhouse proved to be an overwhelming success today, with over 120 businesswomen from across the Southeast gathered at the Woodford Dolmen Hotel to celebrate, network, and gain valuable insights into leadership, resilience, and innovation. The event, coinciding with International Women’s Day, brought together entrepreneurs, executives, and professionals eager to connect and elevate their careers. 
With an atmosphere of empowerment and inspiration, attendees were captivated by the keynote address from Marie Gleeson, a former Irish Navy Captain, who shared her powerful journey of leadership in high-pressure environments. Her compelling insights into resilience, strategic decision-making, and overcoming challenges resonated deeply with the audience. 

Minister for Rural and Community Development, Dara Calleary, visited County Carlow today to officially launch the newly developed Station House – Connected Hub, followed by a series of engagements highlighting innovation, rural development, and enterprise excellence across the county.

VisionGreen Consultancy, a local business developing sustainability solutions for businesses of all sizes has been selected to represent Carlow at the National Enterprise Awards 2025.

Transboundary Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Public Consultation – Xlinks Morocco-UK Power Project development, located from the boundary of the UK Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) to a proposed landfall site at Cornborough Range in Devon, UK

Students from Colaiste Eoin Hacketstown, Cathal Cullen, Saoirse Tyrrell, Jessica Doyle, Lilly Murphy creators of Artisan chocolate, have been crowned the winners of this year’s Carlow Student Enterprise Awards, an initiative run by the Local Enterprise Office (LEO) in Carlow.
The Intermediate Category was won by Tullow Community School students Katie Wilson, Julia Berezanska for their Mini Company Lavenda, a company that manufactured lavender products.

Carlow County Council’s Local Enterprise Office has unveiled its extensive 2025 Training Programme, encompassing both targeted short courses and the ever popular "Start Your Own Business" initiative. This comprehensive offering is designed to empower aspiring entrepreneurs, small business owners, and professionals across Carlow with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in today's dynamic business environment.
Recognising the ever-evolving landscape of industries and the critical need for upskilling and reskilling, the Local Enterprise Office has compiled a diverse range of courses and programmes. From practical digital marketing skills to foundational business development, the 2025 schedule aims to equip participants with the tools necessary for success.

The Carlow Student Enterprise Awards (SEA) are gearing up for their highly anticipated finals, showcasing the next generation of innovative young entrepreneurs. Set to be held on the 4th of March 2025 the event will bring together talented students from across the region who have demonstrated exceptional creativity, business acumen, and entrepreneurial spirit.