Lots of Offaly events planned for upcoming Local Enterprise Week
Small businesses and budding entrepreneurs will have the opportunity to attend numerous events aimed at helping them start or grow their business as part of this year's Local Enterprise Week in Offaly.
This initiative by the country's Local Enterprise Offices, supported by Enterprise Ireland and local authorities, takes place from March 3 to 7.
While hundreds of events are happening nationally, Offaly will host a variety of events open to all. These will focus on business growth, exploring future trends and accelerating business success. The events are being hosted in person, with a selection also taking place online.
The week will kick off on Monday, March 3, with the inspiring Pádraic Ó Máille, a renowned business leader and motivational speaker, as he reveals “Six Simple Disciplines to Boost Your Sales, Profits, and Free Time”. This event starts at 12 noon in The Bridge House Hotel.
On Tuesday, March 4, secondary school students from across the county will compete in the Student Enterprise County Final in the Tullamore Court Hotel.
On Wednesday, in The Bridge House Hotel, Offaly business owners can explore future trends and the practical application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) at a 'Innovate to Elevate: Exploring Future Trends' Day.
Court Edmondson, Director of Robotics & Automation at IMR, will discuss 'Transforming Business: Future Trends in Machine Learning and Robotics', while Muireann Fitzmaurice, The Marketing Coach, will deliver an 'Innovating with AI' workshop.
Also on Wednesday, there is an opportunity to take advantage of in-person one-to-one Business Advice Clinics at Birr Library and Edenderry Library from 5:30pm. Whether you need general business guidance or information on available resources, Local Enterprise Office experts are here to help. Places are limited, so book your free appointment today.
On Thursday, March 6, women in business can celebrate International Women’s Day two days early at the Bridge House Hotel with an event called, 'Inspire and Empower'.
Elaine Smith from Business FiTT will discuss healthy financial habits for your business, while Tanya Ross from Lion’s Breath Yoga Studio will demonstrate the importance of self-care and wellbeing on your business journey.
These events are open to all, from aspiring entrepreneurs to established businesses, providing expert advice on key business areas such as financial skills, raising funds, exporting, and boosting your business online, as well as future trends like sustainability and digitalisation.
At the launch of Local Enterprise Week programme in Offaly, Orla Martin, Head of Enterprise with Offaly County Council, said: “Local Enterprise Week is a fantastic marker in the road for any business.
"It's an opportunity to take stock of where you are, see where you can grow, innovate, or become more sustainable, and discover the resources available on your doorstep.
"There is something for everyone, and for those who have always had the ambition to start their own business or have a great idea, this is the week to see how to get started and make it happen. I encourage everyone to check out the schedule of events and get involved."
Cllr Audrey Hennessey Kennedy, Cathaoirleach of Offaly County Council, commented: "I am pleased that this year’s programme covers a wide range of business topics and includes various workshops, ensuring local businesses and aspiring entrepreneurs can fully benefit from Local Enterprise Week."
And Offaly County Council's chief executive, Anna Marie Delaney, added: "Local Enterprise Week presents an excellent opportunity for networking, gaining insights, and staying updated on the latest business trends.
"Our Local Enterprise Office in Offaly is ready to offer practical support and guidance to those embarking on or already on their business journey."
Full details of all the events taking place across the county during Local Enterprise Week, from March 3-7, are available at: www.localenterprise.ie/offaly