We are seeking ambitious women entrepreneurs who want to take their business to the next level. Are you passionate, committed and determined to make it happen?


Applications are now closed for 2023

This fully funded All-Island growth programme offers 15 founders from Northern Ireland and 15 founders from the Republic of Ireland the chance to connect and learn how to take their ambitious business growth plans to the next level.

As the first women focused programme of its kind across on All-Island basis, the programme is funded by the InterTradeIreland Synergy fund and supported by the EY Entrepreneur of the Year programme. The programme will be delivered in collaboration by Women in Business and Network Ireland - as the two leading women’s networks on the island will bring women owned businesses together to connect, work, achieve and scale.

Guidance notes

Who should apply?

We are seeking driven and dedicated business leaders, including Owners, Founders and Directors who are eager to elevate their businesses. These individuals should possess a strong commitment to their vision and exhibit ambition and passion. Qualifying factors include:

  1. Interest in expanding into an all-island market or growing an existing customer base.
  2. A desire to achieve growth by enhancing their team, exploring new export markets, refining branding & marketing strategies, seeking external investment, increasing sales revenue and leadership skills.
  3. Business owners with a solid market presence, who recognise areas for improvement & scalability and would benefit from guidance, clarity and focus.
  4. Location in the Republic of Ireland, with a goal of expanding sales into Northern Ireland and the UK or building on existing customer relationships.
  5. Location in Northern Ireland, with a goal of expanding sales into the Republic of Ireland or building on existing customer relationships.
  6. Membership of either Women in Business or Network Ireland is required before the programme begins.

*Additional eligibility criteria may be applied as needed, based on funder requirements or for selection purposes in the event of a high number of applicants.

How your business will benefit

Collaborative Growth: You'll collaborate with fellow participants to develop your own business while contributing to their growth. Plus, you'll become part of a supportive network of women entrepreneurs across the island.

Exclusive Learning: The programme features personalised, in-person masterclasses led by industry experts. It all starts with a two-day residential retreat at Killeavy Castle, providing you with the perfect environment to analyse, brainstorm, share, learn and foster your business growth.

Expert Guidance: You'll benefit from specialised facilitators, inspiring business role models and guest speakers in addition to mentorship from Alumni of EY Entrepreneur of the Year.

Dates & Locations you need to know
This programme aims to connect Women Entrepreneurs who will unlock trading opportunities and thrive together across the island.
 
  • Applications close at 12 noon on Friday 3rd November.
  • A residential will take place 4th - 5th December 2023 in Killeavy Castle, Newry. Two additonal All-Island away days will then take place in Dublin or a central location in 2024.
  • Masterclasses will take place between January – May 2024. The 15 founders on the NI Cohort will attend in an NI location. The 15 founders on the RoI cohort will take place in an RoI location.
*Full dates and venues will be available to participants on commencing the programme.

Why you should apply...

top left bottom left top left bottom left

“It's rare to find a space where everyone feels they can share so openly about their business. It was lovely to be part of that!”

Emma Johnston | Hunter Paper Co

Yes You Can | Grow It Graduate 2023

top left bottom left top left bottom left

“Changed my life & came away with so many new skills & a better mindset,”

Ashleigh Averell | Ibrandeverything

Yes You Can | Grow It Graduate 2023

top left bottom left top left bottom left

“The support, encouragement & insights provided were truly valuable to everyone on this cohort.”

Roisin Maguire | Seedling Education

Yes You Can | Grow It Graduate 2023

previous
next

Meet the programme managers:

Roisin McDermott

Roisin McDermott

Women in Business | Head of Entrepreneurship

Roisin is a Business Mentor and Trainer with over 20 years experience in supporting entrepreneurship, with a particular interest in female enterprise and social economy. Before joining the Women in Business team, she has been self-employed for 14 years as Seed Mentoring, working as a consultant supporting startups, micro business and small business through training, mentoring and project management. Prior to this she worked in the enterprise agency network for North Down Development/ East Belfast Enterprise and was one of the primary founders and voluntary Directors of Women in Business, where she served for 7 years. She is also the Treasurer of Specialisterne NI since its foundation in 2015, a social enterprise supporting neuro-diversity and employability and a voluntary Coach of a local girls football team since 2019. She has a degree in Business Studies, an MBA, and an Advanced Diploma in Digital Marketing.

Emma Early Murphy

Emma Early Murphy

Network Ireland | National President

Emma is an award winning entrepreneur, Business Coach & Mentor with over 20 years experience in Corporate & SME Sales, Strategy, Customer Service, Marketing, Change Management, Leadership & Business Development, working with a range of cross functional teams and businesses across a number of industries. She currently owns & runs 2 businesses. In 2017 along with her husband Noel, Emma set up Balloon HQ, a leading event design agency which provides bespoke branded décor, gifting and event solutions for clients nationwide. Emma also set up The Power of U, Business Coaching & Mentoring in 2022 where she supports clients on their personal & professional journeys to ensure they reach their full potential. Emma was appointed National President for 2023 of Ireland’s leading female business network - Network Ireland which is celebrating 40 years.

Chat with us: roisin@womeninbusinessni.com