Local Enterprise Week 2025: Unlocking Growth in Cork County

Mayor Joe Carroll and members of LEO's in Cork sitting on couch outside County Hall while holding LEO week signs.

Cork County’s business community is set for an extraordinary week of learning, networking, and inspiration as Local Enterprise Week 2025 returns from March 3rd to 7th. Hosted by Cork County Council’s Local Enterprise Offices (LEOs), this year’s programme promises an unparalleled line-up of events designed to empower business leaders, entrepreneurs, and SMEs to grow and innovate.


With a record-breaking year of growth in 2024, Cork County LEOs provided almost €1.2 million in financial supports, helping businesses embrace sustainability, enhance efficiency, and scale their operations. Now, Local Enterprise Week 2025 will showcase how these supports can drive real impact, with a dynamic schedule of events.


This year’s programme features a mix of online and in-person events, offering business leaders a chance to gain valuable insights while connecting with industry experts and peers. Locations include the iconic Jameson Distillery, Springfort Hall, Ballymaloe Grainstore, and the cutting-edge Fota Education, Conservation and Research Centre. These inspiring settings are designed to cultivate innovative thinking, fresh perspectives, and meaningful collaborations.


A highlight of the week is Prescription for Success at Fernhill House Hotel, on Monday, March 3rd at 6.30pm, where Oonagh O’Hagan, Managing Director of Meagher’s Pharmacy, will share her entrepreneurial journey and business insights. On Wednesday, March 5th, at 3.00pm in Fota Education, Conservation and Research Centre, Everyone Makes an Impact will feature sustainable fashion designer Aoife McNamara, discussing the future of eco-conscious business. Industry-specific workshops and masterclasses will run throughout the week, covering digital transformation, financial planning, exporting, and sustainable growth. Meanwhile, networking events and business clinics will offer invaluable opportunities for businesses to connect, share ideas, and access expert guidance on scaling and innovation.
Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr. Joe Carroll, highlighted the significance of the event, 

Local Enterprise Week is a key fixture in the business calendar, offering valuable opportunities for businesses to connect, learn, and grow. Whether you're a startup or an established company, the insights gained during Local Enterprise Week could be transformative.

Chief Executive of Cork County Council, Moira Murrell said,

Moira Murrell

Chief Executive

Cork County Council Headquarters, County Hall, Carrigrohane Road, Cork, Ireland. Eircode: T12 R2NC.

Local Enterprise Week is an opportunity for businesses to access funding, mentoring, and expert guidance. Demand for LEO supports is at an all-time high and we are expecting over 2,000 attendees across the week.

Many events are free to attend, but early booking is advised. For more details and registration, visit www.localenterprise.ie and follow #LocalEnterprise for updates.