Donegal Women in Business Network unveil festive line-up

From inspiring stories to celebrating local success, Donegal Women in Business Network is ending 2026 with two special events.

Almost eight in 10 women surveyed at a recent Donegal Women in Business Network (DWIBN) event highlighted building business connections as a key reason for attending, reinforcing the importance of community, collaboration and support among Donegal's businesswomen.

Now, the network is putting those connections centre stage with two exciting events to round off 2026.

First up is a Storytelling Night at Biddy O'Barnes, Barnesmore, on Thursday, 26th November, followed by the much-loved Christmas Dinner and Awards at Castle Grove Country House, Letterkenny, on Thursday, 10th December.

Every business has a story!

Behind every business is a journey filled with challenges, achievements and unexpected twists, and DWIBN wants to hear them all!

Following the success of last year's event, the network's Storytelling Night returns to Biddy O'Barnes from 7pm to 10pm, inviting women to share the real stories behind their businesses, from the proud moments to the lessons learned along the way.

Supported by Local Enterprise Office Donegal, the evening promises inspiring conversations, networking, light refreshments and plenty of opportunities to make new connections.

Admission is free for members and €10 for non-members, with everyone welcome, whether you're running a business, working in one or simply thinking about taking the leap.

Celebrating Donegal's women in business

The festivities continue on Thursday, 10th December, when DWIBN gathers at the beautiful Castle Grove Country House for its annual Christmas Dinner and Awards.

A highlight of the network's calendar, the evening is an opportunity to celebrate another year of achievements, recognise local talent and enjoy some well-deserved festive cheer.

Two special awards will be presented on the night: Celebration of a Woman's Success in the Past Year and One to Watch, recognising an emerging talent with an exciting future ahead.

Nominations are now open, and women are encouraged to nominate a deserving friend, colleague or even themselves before Thursday, 19th November.

Tickets cost €35 for members and €60 for non-members, with places limited.

More than networking, it's about community

The upcoming events follow feedback gathered at DWIBN's Marketing That Connects workshop at Lough Eske in September.

The feedback revealed that 78% of those surveyed highlighted building business connections as a reason for attending DWIBN events, while 76% were seeking fresh ideas and inspiration.

The responses also highlighted the welcoming and supportive atmosphere that has become a hallmark of the network.

As one attendee shared: "I don't know why I didn't attend sooner - I was a bit like the girl outside a new gym class! Thanks for a great event."

Another perfectly captured the importance of supporting local businesses: "We should support each other. Buy from each other."

Sally Murphy, President of Donegal Women in Business Network, said: "These comments really capture what DWIBN is all about. We have an incredible community of women across Donegal, all with different experiences, stories and achievements worth celebrating.

"Our Storytelling Night is a wonderful opportunity to hear those journeys first-hand, including the challenges, the successes and everything in between.

"And what better way to finish the year than by coming together at Castle Grove to recognise the women who have achieved so much?

"Whether you've been part of DWIBN for years or you're thinking about attending your very first event, we'd absolutely love to welcome you. It's all about making connections, supporting one another and enjoying ourselves along the way!"

Bookings for both events and nominations for the Christmas Awards are available at https://donegalwomeninbusiness.com/dwib-donegal-events/

Donegal Women in Business Network connects and supports women in business across Donegal through networking events, professional development opportunities and peer support, delivered in partnership with Local Enterprise Office Donegal.