Leitrim businesswomen highlight opportunities in award-winning Going for Growth Programme

Leitrim businesswomen are encouraging female entrepreneurs who have ambition to grow their businesses, to apply for the 17th cycle of the award-winning business development programme. 

Supported by Enterprise Ireland and KPMG, Going for Growth aids female business owners as they seek to increase revenue, create employment, and export into new markets. 

The deadline for applications for Going for Growth is midnight on Friday, November 15. Some 60 places are available for the new six-month cycle, which is due to begin with a one-day Launch Forum on January 14, 2025. 

Female entrepreneurs from any sector who are focused on growth are encouraged to apply. There is no charge for those selected, thanks to the support of Enterprise Ireland, KPMG and the Lead Entrepreneurs who operate in a voluntary capacity.

Going for Growth brings together female entrepreneurs for monthly peer-to-peer roundtable discussions, facilitated by successful businesswomen, known as Lead Entrepreneurs, whose participation is completely voluntary and is done in a spirit of altruism. 

Going for Growth has been repeatedly recognised by the EU, OECD, and European Institute of Gender Equality as a key initiative in helping to foster greater ambition among female entrepreneurs and to support their growth aspirations. 

Past participants from Leitrim include Áine Faughnan of Dromod Boxty. 

For over 30 years, Dromod Boxty have been making traditional homemade products from old Irish recipes that have been in Áine’s family for generations. 

Áine took part in the 12th cycle of Going for Growth. 

“Going for Growth has given me a fresh set of eyes that I needed and new possibilities I didn’t know were there before now. 

“Meeting such amazing women along the way was a huge plus. It has been the best experience in my many years of running the business,” Áine said.

The 17th cycle will mark a major milestone for Going for Growth with the programme set to accept its 1,000th female entrepreneur since its launch in 2008.   

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“Going for Growth has a proven track record of helping established female entrepreneurs to fulfil their growth ambitionsm,” said National Director of Going for Growth, Paula Fitzsimmons.

“Feedback from past participants reveals the effectiveness of the programme at increasing revenue, staff numbers, and supporting businesses as they expand into new markets in Ireland and abroad. 

“Going for Growth adds value to the businesses of the programme’s participants, which in turn adds value to the country’s economy. 

“I am delighted that the programme is returning for another six-month cycle, and I would encourage all female entrepreneurs with ambitions to grow their businesses to submit their applications,” she concluded.

"KPMG is dedicated to championing female entrepreneurship in Ireland. Through our continued support of Going for Growth, this programme empowers ambitious women with the resources, mentorship, and community they need to elevate their businesses,” said Olivia Lynch, Partner at KPMG.

“Just as we proudly support female role models like Leona Maguire, Rhasidat Adeleke, and Rachel Blackmore in sports, we are equally passionate about helping women excel in business. 

“With invaluable guidance from Lead Entrepreneurs, KPMG workshops and strong peer networks, participants gain the insights and support needed to drive inclusive, innovative growth—fostering a thriving future for women in entrepreneurship across Ireland."

Application forms can be requested from the website – www.goingforgrowth.com. 

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