Cork county’s small business sector is preparing for a significant week of activity as Local Enterprise Week 2026 returns from March 2nd to 6th, bringing a full programme of events aimed at entrepreneurs, start-ups and established SMEs.
Organised by Cork County Council’s Local Enterprise Offices (LEOs), the week-long initiative is aimed at encouraging business growth, innovation and sustainable job creation across the county.
The initiative comes on the back of a strong year for LEO-supported businesses, with companies in Cork North & West and South Cork adding over 400 roles, lifting total employment across the region to more than 2,300 people. Cork County Council’s Local Enterprise Offices emerged as one of the strongest-performing LEOs in the country, ranking seventh nationally for jobs growth, underlining the momentum in the county’s small-business sector.
BUSY SCHEDULE
Local Enterprise Week 2026 will showcase how these supports translate into real-world success through a dynamic mix of online and in-person events. Business owners will have the opportunity to gain valuable insights while connecting with industry experts and peers throughout the week.
Highlights of the week include an ‘Innovate to Elevate’ full day event in Inchydoney Hotel on March 5th, hosted by entrepreneur Bobby Kerr and featuring innovation specialist Brian Cahill and sustainability advisor Annie Duffy. Business leaders will also share practical and personal insights on innovation and competitiveness.
A South Cork highlight will take place on Wednesday, March 4th at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Little Island with ‘Understand How AI Can Transform Your Business’. Led by AI strategist Marie Toft, the event will focus on accessible AI tools that can help small firms save time, cut costs and boost productivity.
A key retail-focused event will also take place at the Charleville Park Hotel on March 3rd featuring top Irish business leaders. Attendees will hear expert insights on retail challenges, future trends, and digitalisation, making it an essential session for retailers, hospitality, and service businesses aiming to grow in 2026.
Throughout the week, attendees will have access to workshops and masterclasses on digital transformation, retail growth, financial planning and exporting, along with networking sessions and business clinics offering expert guidance on scaling and innovation.
Many events are free to attend, but early booking is advised. For full details and registration, visit www.localenterprise.ie and follow #LocalEnterprise on social media for updates.
