Record number of applicants for businesswoman of the year awards

At the launch of Network Ireland’s Annual Conference and Businesswoman of the Year Awards which will take place at the Lyrath Estate Hotel on September 27th, were, front l-r: Amy O'Sullivan, Network Ireland Vice President; Ciara Ryan, AIB; Linda Codoul, Network Ireland President; Anna-Marie Turley, Enterprise Ireland; Xavier McAuliffe, Lyrath Estate Hotel and Rudy the dog, Lyrath Estate Hotel. Back l-r: Ciara Kiely, Abbot; Caitriona O’Mahoney, Lyrath Estate Hotel and Orlaith Fortune, AIB. (Pic: Patrick Browne)

Network Ireland has received the highest ever number of applications for its renowned Businesswoman of the Year Awards, which recognise the achievements of accomplished and committed female professionals. The women’s business group received almost 460 applications from members across its branches, highlighting female-led entrepreneurship figures around the country.

The winners from 17 local branch finals will go forward to a national level round where a panel of business experts select the winners in the eight categories, namely – Networker of the Year 2024; Emerging Businesswoman; Solo Businesswoman; Established Businesswoman; Creative Professional; STEM Professional; Employee – Rising Star and Employee – Shining Star.

The successful businesswomen will be announced at a gala awards ceremony later this year at Lyrath Estate Hotel, Kilkenny on Friday, September 27th.

The event coincides with the Network Ireland national conference which affords attendees networking opportunities, interactive sessions and focused masterclasses. The flagship event will include a range of inspirational speakers on topics such as empowering growth, leadership agility and unlocking success strategies.

The conference this year is focusing on the talented businesswomen amongst the network. Speakers on the day will represent their local branch, showcasing the diverse range of expertise amongst the organisation.

There will be a raffle on the night and all proceeds go towards this year’s charity partners, The Rise Foundation. The Rise Foundation’s mission is to support families impacted by a loved one’s addictive behaviour through awareness, education and therapy, and to combat the associated shame and stigma.