More than 350 female entrepreneurs from across the island of Ireland gathered at the Carrickdale Hotel in Dundalk for the 10th annual Women in Business All-Island Female Entrepreneurs Conference, sponsored by AIB, marking a significant milestone for the flagship event.
Centred on the theme ‘Keeping it Real’, the sold-out conference brought together founders, business leaders and emerging entrepreneurs for a day of practical insight, peer-to-peer learning and meaningful connection.
This year’s programme marked a change in format and delivery with 18 speakers, including two keynote sessions, alongside a dynamic mix of new interactive formats aimed at delivering real-world, actionable learning. A key highlight of the event was the keynote address from renowned entrepreneur Laura Tenison MBE, founder of JoJo Maman Bébé, who delivered an engaging and candid session on building and scaling an internationally recognised brand.
Commenting, Caroline Coyle, Director of Women in Business, said, “As we mark the 10th anniversary of the All-Island Female Entrepreneurs Conference, it was inspiring to see such a strong and engaged community come together to share honest experiences and practical insights. This year, we made a deliberate decision to evolve the format—introducing new interactive elements and hands-on learning opportunities to ensure every minute delivers real value for our delegates.”
Hosted by Caroline O’Neill, conference delegates also benefited from a dedicated marketplace showcasing founder-led products, a Business Support Hub, and two purpose-designed collaboration spaces, including a Learning & Networking Room, reinforcing the conference’s focus on connection, growth and practical support.
“This event continues to play a vital role in connecting and supporting female-led businesses, and we are proud to create a space where collaboration, learning and ambition can thrive—unlocking new ideas, new partnerships and access to new markets beyond our immediate reach,” Caroline added. “What we’re building here isn’t just a conference—it’s a network that is critical for scaling businesses and turning ambition into real, sustainable growth.”
Commenting on the event, Head of Business Banking at AIB, Karen Kidd said, “AIB is proud to support an event that brings together such a powerful network of entrepreneurs and business leaders, showcasing the strength, ambition and potential of female entrepreneurship across the island. The energy in the room was something special, with a real sense of momentum throughout the day. At AIB, our purpose is to empower people to build a sustainable future, and that means backing businesses with the support, expertise and connections they need to turn ambition into action and drive real, lasting growth.”
The All-Island Female Entrepreneurs Conference was sponsored by AIB and supported by InterTradeIreland, Enterprise Ireland, Invest Northern Ireland, Techstart Ventures, and Breakout Session sponsor EY.
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