Powerhouse Event Aims to Boost Financial Confidence Among Women in Business

2 women smiling at camera

Powerhouse Empowering Businesswomen Network will hold its first sold out Powerhouse Business Break: Wealth Creation & Financial Metrics, taking place on Tuesday, April 29th, 2025, at Enterprise House, O’Brien Road, Carlow. 

Hosted by the Powerhouse Network, a collaboration between Carlow County Council - Local Enterprise Office, Library Service, County Carlow Chamber of Commerce, Carlow Kilkenny Skillnet and South East Technological University, this dynamic morning session is designed for female entrepreneurs and professionals seeking practical strategies for business growth, improved financial performance, and long-term sustainability. The event promises inspiring speakers, actionable insights, and the chance to connect with a thriving community of like-minded women. 

Cllr. Fergal Browne, Cathaoirleach of Carlow County Council, praised the initiative and its impact on the local business landscape, “Events like this are more than just networking opportunities, they are catalysts for change. We are not just supporting individual entrepreneurs; we are strengthening families, communities, and the broader local economy. Powerhouse is giving businesswomen the knowledge, resources, and platform to lead with confidence and clarity. We are proud to support such a forward-thinking and inclusive initiative that empowers businesswomen to be key drivers of innovation and economic resilience.” 

Melissa Doyle, Business Advisor with the Local Enterprise Office , Carlow County Council says “We have designed this session to break down the barriers that many businesswomen face when navigating business finances. It’s not just about understanding metrics, it’s about using that understanding to unlock growth. We want businesswomen to walk away not only with insights but with the confidence to apply them. This event is about creating a ripple effect of empowerment, learning, and leadership.” 

The session will feature expert speaker Melanie Guing Ryan of Midland Business Training, who will deliver a focused talk on wealth creation and financial metrics, helping attendees understand how to build stronger, more sustainable businesses. Following this, Norah Ryan, MD of Barrow Consultancy & Training, will share her inspiring entrepreneurial journey and leadership insights. Nicola Doran CEO of County Carlow Chamber of Commerce will facilitate the discussion and engagement with attendees. 

‘As business owners it is vital that we are in control of, and confident in, our financial decision-making, so that we can grow our businesses, and create the financial future that we aspire to.’ Explains Norah Ryan, owner and Managing Director of Barrow Training and Consultancy.  ‘Information is power – especially when it comes to finance. In my experience by understanding financial metrics, my business decisions are more informed and targeted, enabling me to build a thriving, sustainable business.’ 

‘The aim with this series of Powerhouse Business Breaks is to cover essential topics that will enable participants to make tangible improvements to their businesses.’   Says Nicola Doran, CEO of County Carlow Chamber of Commerce.  ‘Sessions such as Wealth Creation & Financial Metrics, arm businesswomen with key, practical and applicable information that will support long-term business growth.’

Don’t worry if you’ve missed out on this month’s events — there are plenty of exciting opportunities ahead as part of the Powerhouse Schedule from the Local Enterprise Office Carlow. Kicking off in May 2025, the Powerhouse Digital Academy and Powerhouse Digital for Business Academy will help you unlock digital growth and drive business success with tailored training, expert insights, and practical tools to elevate your digital strategy. Then in July, be sure not to miss Powerhouse – Business Break: Opportunities for Utilising AI in SMEs, an event designed to help small and medium enterprises explore how artificial intelligence can boost efficiency, streamline operations, and create competitive advantage. These programmes are part of Carlow’s continued commitment to empowering local businesses with the knowledge and skills they need to thrive in the digital economy.

For more information or booking, please see https://www.localenterprise.ie/Carlow/