Dundalk to host major all-island female entrepreneurs conference

Dundalk is set to host the only all-island female conference for entrepreneurs this June, as it returns for its 10th year, with AIB back as title sponsor.

Taking place on 4th June at the Carrickdale Hotel, Dundalk, the 2026 Women in Business All-Island Female Entrepreneurs Conference is set to welcome more than 300 women-led business owners from across the island on for a focused full-day event of empowerment and entrepreneurial collaboration. 

Following a sell-out crowd last year, the prestigious conference will focus on the theme ‘Keeping it Real’, with Laura Tenison MBE, founder of JoJo Maman Bebe, confirmed as keynote speaker alongside conference host Caroline O’Neill.

The event also sees the return of the popular marketplace where women business owners have the chance to showcase their wares to industry peers and support organisations. 

Commenting on this year’s All-Island Entrepreneurs Conference, Head of Business Banking at AIB, Karen Kidd said: “As the conference marks its 10th year, it’s a powerful reminder of how far women-led enterprise has come across the island, and how much potential still lies ahead.

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"At AIB, supporting entrepreneurs to grow sustainable, ambitious businesses is central to what we do. We’re proud to once again support Women in Business in delivering an event that brings real conversations, real connections and real opportunity to the forefront for women founders at every stage of their journey.” 

Attendees will hear the latest insights and lived experiences of entrepreneurship across the island and beyond, with key topics to be explored including access to finances, expanding into new markets and the wider business support ecosystem.

Looking ahead to June’s event, Roisin McDermott, Head of Entrepreneurship at Women in Business, added: “This event is designed to help women founders develop, network, collaborate and learn.

"The theme this year is ‘Keeping it Real’ because we want to hear from real women about real journeys and share real honest lessons learnt.

"The format this year will include lightning talks with experienced female founders, UK and Irish brands scaling stories, breakout business clinics with global entrepreneurs, a business marketplace, enterprise support advice and energetic spaces and connections.

“Last year was a sell-out event and even had a waiting list. It is such a great way to build your community with female founders from every corner of the island.

To find out more about the event and to book your tickets visit: womeninbusinessni.com/events