Strong Longford turnout for women-in-business event

More than 100 women in business from Longford, Leitrim and Westmeath gathered in the Castle Varagh Hotel, Castlepollard, to celebrate International Women’s Day 2026 at an event hosted by the Local Enterprise Offices.

Organised jointly by the three Local Enterprise Offices (LEOs), the event highlighted the role of small businesses in local life and the value of taking part in shared events, developing peer networks and seeking support at the right time. 

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Attendees were encouraged to make full use of the mentoring, training and advisory services available through their Local Enterprise Office.

Longford Speaker Áine Farrell (Áine’s Fashion & Lingerie) pictured at the Women in Business event hosted by the Local Enterprise Offices Picture: Bronte Photography

Longford was strongly represented by guest speaker Áine Farrell of Áine’s Fashion & Lingerie, who delivered an insightful talk on her business journey.

She spoke about the realities of growth, the need for firm foundations and the importance of teamwork and adaptability in a changing retail landscape.

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The event opened with MC Allyson English of The Mody Collective, who welcomed attendees and introduced An Cathaoirleach, Cllr Aoife Davitt, Westmeath County Council.

A panel discussion and dedicated networking session followed. The event closed with prizes sponsored by each of the three Local Enterprise Offices, celebrating some of the region’s most dynamic small businesses.

The tri-county gathering also marked the conclusion of Local Enterprise Week 2026.

Catriona Duffy (Business Advisor LEO Westmeath), Lisa O’Connell (Snr Enterprise Development Officer LEO Leitrim) and Nicola Kenneally (LEO Longford) with prize winners at the Women in Business event hosted by the Local Enterprise Offices Picture: Bronte Photography

Cathaoirleach of Longford County Council, Cllr Garry Murtagh said, “It is encouraging to see so many women in business from across three counties coming together."

"Events like this help people make useful contacts, share practical advice and build confidence."

"Our Local Enterprise Office plays a central role in community life, and this gathering shows the strong talent and commitment that exists right across the region.”

LEO Longford clients with staff Rose McKenna (Business Advisor LEO Longford), Mary Donohoe (LEO Longford) and Nicola Kenneally (LEO Longford) at the Women in Business event hosted by the Local Enterprise Offices Picture: Bronte Photography

Chief Executive of Longford County Council, Paddy Mahon said, “Our Local Enterprise Offices are here to help businesses start well, scale well and stay resilient."

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"Events like this bring people together, strengthen local enterprise and shine a light on the hard work being carried out in every town and village."

"I want to thank all those who took part in this event and encourage businesses to reach out to their Local Enterprise Office to explore the supports available.”

Attendees are invited to save the date for the next Women in Business event, which will take place in County Leitrim on Thursday, May 21, with further details to follow.