In pictures: Letterkenny Chamber hosts Meet the President breakfast

Members of the North West business community gathered for a successful “Meet the President” Breakfast, hosted by Letterkenny Chamber of Commerce at Kernan’s Bistro, sponsored by AIB. Please click on the arrows to go through the gallery

The event provided an opportunity for attendees to engage directly with the new Chamber President, Karoline Sweeney, board members, as well as exchange ideas and discuss opportunities with other businesses.

A highlight of the morning was an address from Karoline Sweeney, who is the Managing Partner of  Castlegrove Country House Hotel that she runs with her siblings, continuing a proud family legacy established by her parents. Drawing on her deep roots in Donegal’s hospitality sector, Karoline spoke passionately about the importance of collaboration, innovation, and having a strong local identity in driving sustainable tourism. Karoline spent 18 years in food and hospitality in New York, returning home eight years ago to Castlegrove Country House Hotel. Since her return, Karoline has not been slow to get involved in the local community, through Letterkenny Chamber, also being immersed in the food and hospitality sector.

Karoline reflected on her work with Food Coast Donegal, where she has played a key role in helping the initiative evolve into a more structured and independent entity. Through her efforts, the organisation has strengthened its capacity to promote Donegal’s rich food offering and has secured dedicated resources to showcase local producers on a wider stage.

Speaking at the event, Karoline conveyed her strong enthusiasm for the region: “I see  Donegal as a place of exceptional quality, creativity, and opportunity. Through the Chamber and Food Coast it is clear that we are good at collaboration in this County. We have been working together as businesses and stakeholders to build a resilient and vibrant local economy. For me this makes the future for the County & Region look more positive than ever and I am delighted to play my part in creating a thriving County that is positioned to contribute to the wider Irish economy.”

Emphasising the power of partnership, she highlighted ongoing collaboration with agencies such as Donegal Local Enterprise Office, Údarás na Gaeltachta, Fáilte Ireland, and Tourism Ireland. These partnerships, she noted, are vital in supporting local businesses and elevating Donegal’s reputation both nationally and internationally and she encouraged businesses to engage with stakeholders and work together to create opportunities.

The “Meet the President” Breakfast forms part of the Chamber’s ongoing commitment to fostering connection, supporting enterprise, and championing the interests of the Donegal business community.