From Insight to Inspiration: Donegal’s Local Enterprise Week packed full of events

Donegal’s business community turned out in force for Local Enterprise Week 2026.

Local Enterprise Week is organised by the Local Enterprise Office (LEO) Donegal in partnership with Donegal County Council and a wide range of stakeholders. More than 22 events took place during the week, offering practical support, expert-led sessions and networking opportunities for entrepreneurs and small businesses at every stage of development.

The week opened at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Letterkenny, with the flagship event, ‘Communicating with Leadership and Impact’ hosted by broadcaster and journalist Richard Curran. Terry Prone, Chair of The Communications Clinic and a recognised authority on reputation management and crisis communications, delivered the keynote address. 

Drawing on decades of experience advising senior business leaders and government figures, she outlined practical approaches to effective leadership communication in a changing business environment.

The opening event drew strong attendance and engagement, setting a focused and ambitious tone for the week’s programme of workshops, seminars and sector-focused sessions.

“Local Enterprise Week is a great opportunity for businesses to explore new opportunities for growth and develop valuable skills to help expand their operations or begin their entrepreneurial journey,” said Cathaoirleach of Donegal County Council, Cllr. Paul Canning. “This year’s programme was designed to inspire confidence and build belief in our local businesses, with networking at its heart. It’s hoped that the connections made during the week will spark partnerships that lead to long-lasting success across Donegal.”

Brenda Hegarty, Head of Enterprise with Local Enterprise Office Donegal, said the level of engagement reflected the ambition within the local enterprise base. “The theme of Local Enterprise Week 2026 was ‘Built on Belief,’ and we firmly believe in the potential of Donegal’s enterprises,” she said. “The week’s line-up of speakers, workshops and events ensured businesses of all sizes had opportunities to learn, connect and position themselves for growth.”

The programme now builds to its finale on Friday, March 6, at the Clanree Hotel with the ‘Made in Donegal: Business Summit’ from 11.30am. Hosted by commentator Sean Perry, the summit will feature discussions with business leaders and guests, including former Donegal GAA captain Patrick McBrearty and Rosy Temple of Magee 1866.

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The ‘Made in Donegal: Business Showcase’ will follow, highlighting the county’s artisan food and craft producers and providing further networking opportunities. The showcase will be hosted by hotelier and broadcaster, Noel Cunningham, and is free to attend.

With strong participation throughout the week, Local Enterprise Week 2026 has once again underlined the innovation, resilience, and ambition within Donegal’s business community.