Local Enterprise Week 2024, taking place from March 3rd to 7th, will see Roscommon join 30 other Local Enterprise Offices in delivering a diverse programme of events aimed at small businesses and entrepreneurs.
The initiative, backed by Enterprise Ireland and local authorities, offers workshops, expert panels, and networking opportunities to help businesses scale and innovate.
Head of Enterprise at Roscommon LEO, Louise Ward, described Local Enterprise Week as an invaluable opportunity for businesses to take stock and explore new avenues: “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, where you can innovate or maybe become more sustainable and see what resources are available on your doorstep.”
Among the highlights is an AI-focused online session on March 4th, designed to explore how artificial intelligence can enhance marketing and customer engagement. A major regional event on AI, hosted by Roscommon, Mayo, and Galway LEOs, will also take place at the BIA Innovator Campus in Athenry.
For those considering launching their own business, the Remote Start Your Own Business course begins on March 5th, offering a structured approach to entrepreneurship.
Additionally, a Pension Auto-Enrolment Breakfast Briefing, co-hosted with Westmeath LEO, will be held at the Athlone Springs Hotel on March 6th, providing insights into upcoming pension changes for employers.
Enterprise awards
The highlight of the week is the prestigious Roscommon Enterprise Awards, which take place on March 3rd at the Hodson Bay Hotel. The invite-only event will honour local businesses across multiple categories, with the overall winner set to represent Roscommon at the National Enterprise Awards later this year.
Chief Executive of Roscommon County Council, Shane Tiernan, emphasised the significance of the awards and Local Enterprise Week as a whole.
“Local Enterprise Week is a showcase event for local businesses. It is an opportunity to shine a bright light on our flourishing small to medium-sized local business sector.
“Events also support local businesses to fulfil their growth potential through a series of support initiatives and advice.”
Other noteworthy events include the Creative Heartlands Spring Makerthon, a hands-on workshop exploring digital fabrication in design, and the International Women’s Day event, which will be held on March 7th will celebrate the contribution of women entrepreneurs to the local economy. International Women’s Day is an annual global day of recognition held annually on March 8th.
All events are free, though advance booking is advised. Full details and registration are available at www.LocalEnterprise.ie/Roscommon.
