Making It Happen For Local Business
Local Enterprise Week Louth 2026 returns from Monday, 2nd March to Friday, 6th March, with a dynamic programme designed to support entrepreneurs, start-ups, and established businesses across County Louth.
Delivered by Local Enterprise Office Louth, in partnership with leading local and national business organisations, Local Enterprise Week is an annual celebration of enterprise, innovation, and ambition. The 2026 programme offers practical supports, expert insights, and valuable networking opportunities for businesses at every stage of development.
Events kick off on Monday, 2nd March at Bellingham Castle with a hands-on Launch Event designed for local SMEs. Business Boost is a practical workshop that helps business owners assess their digital strengths and identify clear, achievable actions to improve performance and scale. Featuring real stories from local businesses, practical tips, and an inspiring keynote on digital innovation, the session explores how simple tools, automation, and technologies such as AI can save time, streamline operations, boost competitiveness, and support growth. Business owners will leave with practical insights and tools ready to use right away.
Cathaoirleach of Louth County Council, Cllr. Seán Kelly explains: “Local Enterprise Week gives Louth businesses the opportunity to step back, gain fresh perspectives and access practical supports in one focused week. We encourage businesses from across the county to take part, connect with peers and make the most of what promises to be a highly impactful programme.”
David Conway, Chief Executive of Louth County Council, added: “This is an exciting week for the Louth business community. We are proud to support a week that empowers ambition, fosters innovation, and showcases the remarkable talent that exists across our county. Local businesses and entrepreneurs are central to Louth’s economic and social development. They support vibrant and growing towns, deliver sustainable jobs, and create new opportunities for communities. I encourage businesses and aspiring entrepreneurs alike to get involved, attend a workshop or seminar, make business connections, and take full advantage of the opportunities this week offers. Louth is a great place to be innovative.”
Head of Enterprise at Local Enterprise Office Louth Nikki Campbell continues: “Throughout the week, we are delighted to co-host events in collaboration with key stakeholders. These include Dundalk Chamber and Newry Chamber’s Cross Border Trade & Economic Conference. Google and Enterprise Europe Network will host the National Development Summit. Drogheda Digital Hub will play host to the ever-popular Business Advice Clinics. Boyne Valley Flavours will stage a food-sector learning event. Drogheda Chamber and The Mill Enterprise Hub are delivering the Secrets to Success business breakfast, while Network Ireland Louth will host the From Start-up to Scale-Up event. This strong partnership approach reflects the shared commitment to enterprise development across the county.”
Nikki continues “And if you’re thinking about starting a business but don’t know where to start, sign up for our ‘Make Your Idea Happen: Your First Step into Business’ event taking place virtually from 10am-12pm on Wednesday, 4th March.”
The week concludes on Friday, 6th March with the Louth Enterprise Awards, the flagship networking event of Local Enterprise Week. This celebratory lunch recognises the county’s most innovative and resilient businesses and offers a prime opportunity to network with peers across Louth’s business community.
Nikki Campbell concludes: “Most events are free of charge and open to all, but places are limited and demand is always high, so early booking is strongly advised. For full programme details and to book your places, visit www.localenterprise.ie/louth”
