A huge collaboration
Local Enterprise Office Monaghan has successfully concluded Local Enterprise Week 2026, held from March 2-6, with strong attendance and positive feedback from businesses across the county. The week delivered a vibrant mix of free events, digital training sessions, sector‑focused discussions and celebrations of women in enterprise, all aimed at supporting business growth and future readiness.
Throughout the week, entrepreneurs, start‑ups and established SMEs engaged in practical learning, networking, and collaboration, highlighting the strength and ambition of Monaghan’s business community.
Flagship Manufacturing & Engineering Event
The programme began on Monday with Advancing Manufacturing & Engineering Through Collaboration, attracting businesses from across the region. Industry experts and local stakeholders discussed opportunities to strengthen sectoral innovation, improve competitiveness, and harness shared learning. Participants noted the value of connecting with peers and exploring collaborative pathways for growth.
Emerging Entrepreneurs
On Tuesday, the Local Enterprise Office team supported the Monaghan Institute Open Day, engaging with prospective entrepreneurs and young innovators. Staff provided one‑to‑one guidance on start‑up supports, training opportunities, and funding options. The initiative reinforced LEO Monaghan’s commitment to supporting early‑stage business ideas and inspiring the next generation of local enterprises.
Digital Transformation
Wednesday’s Grow Digital Breakfast Morning drew significant interest from SMEs keen to expand their digital capabilities. Attendees received practical insights into digital funding supports and learned how modern technologies, from improved systems to advanced productivity tools, can streamline operations and enhance long‑term growth.
Businesses highlighted the session’s value in offering clear and accessible guidance on digital transformation strategies.
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Some of the attendance at the Monaghan Local Enterprise office event Grow Digital Business Breakfast at the M:Tek 1 in Monaghan Town.Photos: Rory Geary ©Rory GearyImage 2 of 7
At the launch of Monaghan Local Enterprise Week were (from left): Robert Burns, Chief Executive, Monaghan County Council; John O’Hara, Enterprise Europe Network; Angela Duffy, Resolve Partners; Cllr P.J. O’Hanlon, Cathaoirleach, Sam Moffett, Moffett Automation; Pamela Kerr, Head of Enterprise, Monaghan LEO; Deirdre Craven, Enterprise Ireland and Cathal Flynn, Monaghan County Council. ©Rory GearyImage 3 of 7
Some of the group who attended the mini digi hub event at the M:Tek 1 in Monaghan, which was hosted by the Monaghan Local Enterprise Office as part of Local Enterprise Week. ©Rory GearyImage 4 of 7
Guest Speaker Breda McCague addressing the huge crowd during the International Women’s Day event in the Shirley Arms Hotel.Image 5 of 7
At the Mini Digi Hub event (from left): Jason McGee, Mini Digi Hub; Clair McKenna, Monaghan LEO and Tadhg Deeney, Mini Digi Hub. ©Rory GearyImage 6 of 7
At the launch of the Monaghan Advantage Feasibility Study at Local Enterprise Week were (from left): Robert Burns, Chief Executive, Monaghan County Council; John O’Hara, Enterprise Europe Network; Angela Duffy, Resolve Partners; Cllr P.J. O’Hanlon, Cathaoirleach; Sam Moffett, Moffett Automation; Pamela Kerr, Head of Enterprise & Economic Development, Monaghan County Council; Deirdre Craven, Enterprise Ireland and Cathal Flynn, Monaghan County Council. ©Rory GearyImage 7 of 7
CIRCULAR PIC ABOVE: Michael Kelso from Kelso Digital, speaking at the Grow Digital Business Breakfast at the M:Tek 1 in Monaghan Town. ©Rory GearyCelebrating Women in Enterprise
Friday’s Empowering Women event, featuring keynote speaker Breda McCague, provided an inspiring and energising close to the week. Breda shared insights on leadership, transformation, and personal resilience, encouraging women in business to embrace confidence, ambition and growth. The event received excellent feedback for its motivational atmosphere and practical takeaways.
Hands‑On Digital Workshops
Across the week, the Mobile Mini Digital Hub delivered a series of interactive workshops covering:
Podcasting for Business
VR Capabilities & Applications
AI for Tourism
Advanced Cybersecurity
Each session allowed participants to engage directly with emerging technologies. Businesses praised the workshops for being practical, accessible and highly relevant in adapting to evolving digital demands.
Engagement
Feedback from participants indicated strong appreciation for the free, practical, and collaborative nature of this year’s programme. Many local businesses reported gaining new skills, making valuable connections, and identifying new opportunities for innovation.
Local Enterprise Office Monaghan encourages businesses to continue engaging with its year‑round supports, including training programmes, mentoring, financial supports and digital initiatives.
Find out more
Visit the LEO Monaghan website to explore ongoing supports and upcoming events: