Female entrepreneurs and aspiring businesswomen from Cork are encouraged to register for this year’s National Women’s Enterprise Day.

The event, now in its 19th year and designed and led by women to promote and encourage female entrepreneurship, will take place at the Radisson Blu Hotel and Spa in Little Island on October 16.

National Women’s Enterprise Day shines the spotlight on businesswomen and encourages the prospect of entrepreneurship to women who may not have considered it before, highlighting the supports available.

The event also provides valuable networking opportunities to connect with industry experts while acknowledging the achievements of women in enterprise.

This year’s theme, Making It Happen, aims to encourage businesswomen to take that next step, whether that is to act on an idea, grow their business, or change and innovate in their business.

The event will outline the key supports that are available from financial and consultancy to training and mentoring to help women along the way from starting out to bringing a business to global markets.

SÍLE SEOIGE

Broadcaster and podcast host Síle Seoige will be MC on the day as well as a network facilitator and interviewer.

Participants will also hear from members of the interactive Leading Lights panel discussion, which will represent Local Enterprise Offices (LEOs) in Cork and Kerry.

Panellists include Marie Toft of Emotionise AI, who is also the event’s regional ambassador; Norma Kelly of Praline Pastry & Chocolate Shop; Claire Keane of Second Street Bakeshop, and Yasmina Renaudin of RedaCare.

The afternoon will also feature a ‘fireside chat’ with special guest Noella Gabriel, who is the global president and co-founder of luxury skincare brand Elemis.

The Mayor of the County of Cork, councillor Mary Linehan Foley, said that National Women’s Enterprise Day is a “significant event” for women each year.

“A celebration of female entrepreneurs and businesswomen, the event informs and inspires women at all stages of the business development journey,” said Ms Linehan Foley.

“There is a great line-up of speakers and inspirational businesswomen for next month’s event, which will also provide an opportunity to network and discover what supports are available for entrepreneurs in the region.”

Places for the event are limited, with advance booking required via https://www.localenterprise.ie/