Leitrim entrepreneur women called to step up and start their own businesses

Female entrepreneurs in Leitrim are being encouraged to apply for the latest cycle of ACORNS, a development programme supporting women in rural Ireland who are in the early stages of building their own business.

Leitrim businesswoman Diletta Panero of DP Language Services has just completed ACORNS 9 and is urging others to take part. She joins Katie Diffley of Katie Diffley Consulting, another Leitrim participant, in highlighting the impact of the scheme.

“ACORNS is unlike any other programme out there,” said Panero, who set up her company in Kinlough in 2023. “The relationships with other women entrepreneurs make you part of a generous and open-minded community. I cannot recommend ACORNS enough.”

Diffley, now based in Carrick-on-Shannon, described the programme as a “game-changer,” providing practical tools, mentorship and inspiration to grow her consulting business.

Applications are now open for ACORNS 11, which will run from October 2025 to April 2026. The programme is free to participants thanks to funding from the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine and the voluntary contribution of Lead Entrepreneurs. The deadline to apply is midnight, September 22, with up to 50 places available.

Launching the call for applications, Minister Martin Heydon TD said ACORNS has supported over 550 women in rural Ireland over the past decade. “The programme continues to go from strength to strength,” he said. “It helps women overcome barriers and realise their dreams of starting and growing successful businesses.”

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A survey of last year’s participants revealed strong results: four businesses began trading, turnover nearly doubled from €2.8m to €4.3m, and eight new exporters emerged.

Only early-stage female entrepreneurs living in rural Ireland who had no sales before June 2022 are eligible to apply. Selection is competitive.

Applications can be made via www.acorns.ie

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