Wicklow's National Women's Enterprise Day Event to Take Place on Thursday, 16th October 2025
Female entrepreneurs and aspiring businesswomen from across Wicklow are encouraged to register for this year’s National Women’s Enterprise Day (NWED), after the lineup for the event was announced today. This initiative from the Local Enterprise Offices (LEOs) aims to inspire and support women in business.
There are 15 events nationwide featuring a range of successful businesswomen, emerging female entrepreneurs and expert speakers in the areas of sustainability, innovation, networking and marketing. Last year, the event saw a record-breaking 2,200 attendees across the country.
The Wicklow NWED Event will run from 12pm to 4pm on Thursday, 16th October, in the beautiful marquee at Tinakilly House Hotel, Rathnew. Lunch will be provided upon arrival, and tickets cost just €15, available for purchase online at localenterprise.ie.
This year’s theme, "Making It Happen," will encourage businesswomen to take the next step in their journey, whether that involves acting on an idea, growing their business, or innovating.
The keynote speaker will be Kellie Fennell, a prominent Irish fitness entrepreneur, online coach, and podcast host with over 2 million followers across her social media platforms. Known for her science-based, personalised approach to health and wellness, Kellie holds a degree in Neuroscience from University College Dublin (UCD) and has studied Mathematics at the University of Limerick (UL). She also has qualifications in teaching, personal training and nutrition.
During her talk, Kellie will share her own business challenges alongside motivational insights. Additionally, she hosts ‘The Kellie Fennell Podcast’, discussing topics related to nutrition, training, recovery, and personal growth, often featuring guests who share transformative stories and insights.
In addition, three LEO client businesses will discuss how practical LEO support schemes—such as Business Growth Grants, LEAN for Business and Green for Business have helped them in their journeys. This panel includes Aisling McGann from Sisú Plant-Based Beverages, based in Greystones and stocked nationwide. Joining her will be Lynne Baillie of kitchen design company Vidvei Kitchens, Wicklow, who availed of the ‘LEAN for Business’ programme offered by LEO Wicklow and Valerie McHugh of Nick’s Coffee, Wicklow town, who will explain how the ’Green for Business’ programme
and the Energy Efficiency Grant (EEG) improved her business's environmental credentials.
Cathaoirleach, Wicklow County Council Cllr. Melanie Corrigan, who will attend on the day, said, “There are some amazing female entrepreneurs in County Wicklow and I look forward to meeting them at the NWED event and hearing the inspiring stories of our guest speakers. Small businesses and sole traders are vital to the fabric of our society in this County and this event is tailor made for them.”
Emer O’Gorman, Chief Executive of Wicklow County Council, added, “I would like to call on all female founders and entrepreneurs to come and join us on Thursday 16th October in Rathnew to network and celebrate the stories of these impressive speakers. There is nothing like supporting and learning from each other in business, especially for women who are often juggling many other responsibilities.”
Vibeke Delahunt, Head of Enterprise at the Local Enterprise Office Wicklow, said “The theme for this year’s National Women’s Enterprise Day on October 16th is ‘Making it Happen’ and we want to highlight all the supports that can empower women in Wicklow who want to start or grow their businesses into the future.”
Established in 2014, the Local Enterprise Offices operate as part of the Local Authority and are funded by the Government of Ireland through Enterprise Ireland. LEOs are a vital resource for any entrepreneur seeking support or advice. Since their inception, the Local Enterprise Offices have played a crucial role in creating over 75,000 jobs nationwide. The team at LEO Wicklow works with thousands of client companies in Co. Wicklow in a diverse range of sectors offering mentoring, training, expert advice and financial supports to small businesses.
Tickets cost €15 for this event are open to all. To book your place and for more information on National Women’s Enterprise Day go to LocalEnterprise
IMAGES
Picture 1: (L-R) Lynne Baillie - Vidvei Kitchens; Valerie Mc Hugh - Nick's Coffee; Kellie Fennell - Keynote Speaker at NWED 2025; Aisling McGann - Sisú plant-based drinks.
Picture 2: (L-R) Aisling McGann - Sisú plant-based drinks, Louise Fleming - Senior Enterprise Development Officer LEO Wicklow, Kellie Fennell - Keynote Speaker, Valerie Mc Hugh - Nick’s Coffee, Lynne Baillie - Vidvei Kitchens and Vibeke Delahunt -Head of Enterprise, LEO Wicklow