'We need immediate action' - business event calls out barriers to women and SMEs
Michelle Aylward, CEO of County Tipperary Chamber said that women in business need more than words
A Tipperary business representative organisation has called for more investment in female-run business, as well as more support for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the face of rising costs.
The call was made at a County Tipperary Chamber event to mark International Women's Day, which heard that female business owners face significant barriers to setting up shop in Tipperary.
Michelle Aylward, CEO of County Tipperary Chamber said that women in business need more than words, but need real action to see inequalities addressed.
"This April, County Tipperary Chamber marks 100 years of supporting businesses. But while we celebrate a century of progress, we cannot ignore the fact that women-led businesses still receive only a fraction of investment.
"This isn’t just about fairness—it’s about the economic future of Tipperary and Ireland. We need real investment in women entrepreneurs, not just words," Ms Aylward said.
She also called for immediate support for SMEs, who are "the backbone" of local communities across Tipperary, saying that urgent action is needed.
"Small businesses are the backbone of our local economy. Yet, they continue to face rising costs, difficulties securing funding, and barriers to winning public contracts.
"This isn’t just about survival—it’s about growth. When small businesses succeed, Tipperary thrives. That’s why we are calling for immediate action to reduce business costs, expand funding access, and drive digital innovation and workforce development," the County Tipperary Chamber CEO hit out.
The event, held at the Cashel Palace hotel, heard from Geraldine Jones of Skin Formulas, Ger Killian from The Lunch Bag and disability activist Cara Darmody among others, to share insights into the issues women in business face today, and what can be done to effect change.
As County Tipperary Chamber's 100th anniversary approaches, they have called for more funding for women-led businesses, a fairer playing field for SMEs and a commitment to lasting change, not just conversation.