Photography: Damian Smith (2tanks photography)
Network Ireland Louth brought women in business from across the county together at The Spirit Store in Dundalk for its first “Know Your Network” Speed Networking and Business Showcase.
The event was designed to move away from traditional open networking and make it easier for attendees to have meaningful one-to-one conversations.
Members and non-members were given two minutes each to introduce themselves and their business before making an “ask”, whether that was an introduction, collaboration, referral, business support or simply a connection with someone who could help.
The official event listing described the format as an opportunity to get people “talking, connecting and doing business”, with attendees encouraged to be clear about what they needed from their network. Network Ireland
A showcase for local businesses
Businesses were also invited to showcase their work around the venue using banners, products and promotional material, giving attendees a snapshot of the range of women-led businesses operating across Louth and the wider region.
Network Ireland Louth President Pauline Clarke said the format was introduced as the branch continued to grow.
“As our branch has grown, I felt it was important that we created an opportunity to really get to know the women behind the businesses. Networking isn’t simply about being in the same room, it’s about understanding what somebody does, what they need and who you might be able to connect them with.
“One of the things I loved most about the evening was watching those connections happen in real time. People weren’t just exchanging business cards; they were making introductions, identifying collaborations, sharing advice and finding ways to support one another.”
Network Ireland lists Pauline Clarke, owner of Kookee, as President of its Louth branch for 2026.
Positive early feedback
Early feedback gathered by the branch suggests attendees responded well to the format.
Of the first 15 survey responses, 80% said they had made four or more new business connections, while 93.3% said the speed networking format made meeting people easier than traditional open networking.
Almost three-quarters identified someone they intended to follow up with after the event.
Respondents also reported potential collaborations, referrals, customer opportunities and new suppliers or service providers.
All 15 respondents said they would attend the event again, with 60% favouring running it twice a year and 40% saying they would like it to take place even more frequently.
Feedback included comments from attendees who said the structured approach allowed them to speak directly with people they might not normally meet and made it easier to talk about their own businesses.
Open to members and non-members
The evening was also open to non-members, giving women from the wider Louth business community a chance to experience the organisation and meet existing members.
The Louth branch represents women from a broad mix of businesses, professions and creative industries across Louth and surrounding counties.
Network Ireland Louth thanked The Spirit Store for providing the venue free of charge and local business A91 for catering on the night.
The branch also acknowledged the support of Network Ireland national partner AIB and Local Enterprise Office Louth.
The group runs events throughout the year aimed at supporting the professional and personal development of women in business, with new members welcome to join.
