Longford business event hears about power of community and connection

Seventy female business owners and managers from across Longford, Leitrim, and Westmeath recently gathered at Longford Arms Hotel for an evening of inspiration, insight, and connection.

Organised jointly by the three county Local Enterprise Offices (LEOs), the event featured keynote speaker Su Carty (award-winning leadership and performance coach) and guest speaker Clare Frances Cassells (award-winning Irish female wedding and portrait photographer).

Hosted by Noel Davidson of Entrepreneurs Academy, the evening included a panel discussion followed by networking where attendees shared experiences and built relationships.

Keynote speaker Su Carty was voted Irish Women of the Year 2018 and became the first Irish female representative to the World Rugby Council.

For five years she has delivered consulting and coaching programmes that drive winning performance within business. She shared her career story spanning professional sport, coaching, and psychiatric nursing.

Clare Frances Cassells is a Longford-based photographer and member of multiple women in business networks.

She spoke about the power of community and connection in building sustainable enterprises.

Cathaoirleach of Longford County Council, Cllr Garry Murtagh, said, "Supporting female entrepreneurship strengthens the entire fabric of our local economy. When women in business thrive, our communities flourish.

"This event demonstrates the vital role our Local Enterprise Offices play in creating spaces where businesswomen can share knowledge, forge partnerships, and access the supports they need to scale their ambitions."

Chief Executive of Longford County Council, Paddy Mahon, said, "The calibre of entrepreneurial talent reflects the transformative work happening across our three counties.

"Through the Local Enterprise Office network, we're committed to ensuring female business owners have access to practical supports — funding, mentorship, and training — that turns ideas into thriving enterprises."

The Women in Business series, delivered in partnership with Enterprise Ireland, showcases the extensive resources available to female entrepreneurs, including tailored funding opportunities, specialist training programmes, and one-to-one mentorship from industry experts.

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