Pictured at the launch of the Local Enterprise Week 2026 schedule of events in Offaly were, front row, l-r, Cllr. Claire Murray; Ann Dillon, Director of Services; Orla Martin, Head of Enterprise, LEO Offaly; Cllr. John Leahy, Cathaoirleach, Offaly County Council; Eoghan Ryan, Chief Executive, Offaly County Council; Lisa Molloy, Senior Enterprise Development Officer, LEO Offaly; Paul McLoughlin, Director of Services Back row, l-r, Sarah Dunne, LEO Offaly; Cllr. Liam Quinn; Cllr. Peter Ormond; Cllr. Shane Murray; Cllr. Neil Feighery; Cllr. Oliver Bryant; Cllr. Eddie Fitzpatrick; Cllr. Audrey Hennessy-Kennedy; Cllr. Sean Maher; Cllr. Eleanor Clendennen; Cllr. Hugh Egan; Cllr. Fergus McDonnell, Cllr. Aoife Masterson; Cllr. Noel Cribbin; Cllr. Claire Murray-Smale; Cllr. Frank Moran; Cllr. Sean O’Brien. Missing from photo: Cllr. Declan Harvey Photo: Paul Moore

Lots of Offaly events planned for upcoming Local Enterprise Week

Published: Tue 17 Feb 2026, 1:57 PM

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 Monday, March 2 to Friday, March 6.

Offaly will host a variety of events open to all. These will focus on opportunities for those starting a business, scaling and exporting, exploring green innovation, building leadership capability, or simply seeking to connect with the county’s enterprise community.

Flagship Events for 2026

Leadership in an Age of Chaos – with Mark Little

A dynamic lunchtime session with entrepreneur, journalist and innovative leader Mark Little, will take place on Wednesday, March 4.

The session will explore what it takes to lead with clarity, confidence and purpose in an age of chaos. Drawing on decades of global experience at the intersection of media, technology and leadership, Mark will offer grounded, real-world insight for senior leaders navigating disruption, rapid change and shifting global landscapes. This thought-provoking session will equip leaders and business owners with practical tools to steer their teams through complexity and shape the future with intention.

Resilient Business in 2026: Real-world Challenges, Smart Solutions, Local Supports – with Susan Hayes Culleton

Join economist, author and financial strategist Susan Hayes Culleton on Monday, March 2, for an engaging and energising session rooted in real-world SME experience. Susan brings a unique blend of financial expertise, strategic insight and uplifting encouragement to help business owners navigate challenges, spot opportunities and build momentum. Designed for entrepreneurs at every stage, this event provides clear guidance, actionable tools and renewed confidence. Lunch is included.

International Women’s Day Celebration – Give to Gain: The Power of Women Supporting Women

On Thursday, March 5, LEO Offaly will host an uplifting afternoon tea celebrating the strength of women supporting women. Keynote speaker Paula Fitzsimons, founder of Fitzsimons Consulting and creator of Going for Growth, ACORNS and Back for Business, will be joined by a panel of inspiring women sharing their experiences and ambitions. Gain motivation, meaningful connections and renewed confidence in the power of women lifting each other up.

Founders Friday – with Paul Mahon, Watt Footprint

Delivered in partnership with AllPro Recruitment and the Tullamore Rotary Club, this session, taking place on Friday, March 6, features Midlands entrepreneur Paul Mahon of Watt Footprint. Paul will share the story behind his business, the challenges and breakthroughs he has experienced, and the insights he has gained along the way.

Fraud Awareness Event – Birr

In collaboration with Bank of Ireland and An Garda Síochána, this practical session on Friday, March 6, will help businesses understand emerging fraud risks and the steps they can take to protect themselves.

One-to-One Business Clinics

Throughout the week, entrepreneurs can access tailored advice across key areas including finance, digital strategy, exporting, sustainability and business planning.

Speaking at the launch, Orla Martin, Head of Enterprise, said: “Local Enterprise Week is about equipping Offaly’s entrepreneurs and business owners with the insights, confidence and connections they need to thrive. Our enterprise community is ambitious, resilient and future focused — and this programme reflects that spirit. I would encourage everyone to take a look and get involved.”

Full details of all events taking place from March 2-6 are available at: www.localenterprise.ie/!CIUGTP