Photos by Jenny Callanan.
Local Enterprise Week Louth 2026 will take place from Monday, 2 March to Friday, 6 March, offering a wide ranging programme aimed at supporting entrepreneurs, start ups and established businesses across County Louth.
Delivered by Local Enterprise Office Louth in partnership with local and national business organisations, Local Enterprise Week is an annual celebration of enterprise, innovation and ambition. The 2026 programme will provide practical support, expert insights and valuable networking opportunities for businesses at every stage of development.
The week will begin on Monday, 2 March at Bellingham Castle with a hands-on launch event designed for local SMEs. Business Boost is a practical workshop that will help business owners assess their digital strengths and identify clear and achievable actions to improve performance and scale. Featuring real world examples from local businesses, practical advice and an inspiring keynote on digital innovation, the session will explore how simple tools, automation and technologies such as AI can save time, streamline operations, boost competitiveness and support growth. Participants will leave with practical insights and tools ready to apply immediately.
Cathaoirleach of Louth County Council, Cllr Seán Kelly, said Local Enterprise Week gives Louth businesses the opportunity to step back, gain fresh perspectives and access practical support in one focused week. He encouraged businesses from across the county to take part, connect with peers and make the most of what promises to be a highly impactful programme.
Chief Executive of Louth County Council, David Conway, said the week is an exciting time for the Louth business community. He said the council is proud to support a programme that empowers ambition, fosters innovation and showcases the remarkable talent across the county. He added that local businesses and entrepreneurs are central to Louth’s economic and social development, supporting vibrant towns, delivering sustainable jobs and creating new opportunities for communities. He encouraged businesses and aspiring entrepreneurs to attend events, make connections and take full advantage of the opportunities available, noting that Louth is a great place to be innovative.
Head of Enterprise at Local Enterprise Office Louth, Nikki Campbell, said the week will feature a strong partnership approach, with events co hosted alongside key stakeholders. These include a cross border trade and economic conference with Dundalk Chamber and Newry Chamber, the National Development Summit hosted by Google and the Enterprise Europe Network, business advice clinics at Drogheda Digital Hub, a food sector learning event delivered by Boyne Valley Flavours, the Secrets to Success business breakfast organised by Drogheda Chamber and The Mill Enterprise Hub, and the From Start up to Scale Up event hosted by Network Ireland Louth. She said this collaborative approach reflects a shared commitment to enterprise development across the county.
Ms Campbell also highlighted an event for those considering starting a business, encouraging people to sign up for the Make Your Idea Happen Your First Step into Business session, which will take place online from 10am to 12pm on Wednesday, 4 March.
The week will conclude on Friday, 6 March with the Louth Enterprise Awards, the flagship networking event of Local Enterprise Week. The celebratory lunch will recognise the county’s most innovative and resilient businesses and provide a key networking opportunity for the wider business community.
Ms Campbell said most events are free of charge and open to all, but places are limited, and demand is expected to be high. Early booking is strongly advised, with full programme details and booking information available at www.localenterprise.ie/louth.
