Empowering Women Entrepreneurs in Donegal: Ambition Programme 2024 Now Open for Applications

The Local Enterprise Office Donegal is excited to announce the launch of the Ambition programme for 2024, with the primary objective of providing support and encouragement to female entrepreneurs in the county. This initiative, which has been in operation for the last four years, is specifically tailored for female founders, co-founders, and entrepreneurs with promising start-up concepts, provided they have ties to Donegal. Applications for the Ambition programme will be accepted until midnight on Wednesday, 31st, presenting a promising opportunity for aspiring female business leaders to step forward and showcase their potential.

Brenda Hegarty, the Head of Enterprise at the Local Enterprise Office Donegal, has expressed that the Ambition programme is intricately designed to facilitate more women in turning their business ideas into successful enterprises. With a proven track record of fostering positive outcomes, the aspiration is to identify the future generation of talented and ambitious female business leaders from Donegal. Whether they are residents of Donegal, contemplating a move, or have familial connections to the county, women with innovative business ideas are encouraged to apply.

The LEAD of the Ambition Programme, Helen Fullen of Alinea, has expressed her enthusiasm in collaborating with motivated women who aspire to make a global impact through their business ventures. The programme offers a clear pathway for aspiring female entrepreneurs, providing one-to-one mentoring and access to successful entrepreneurial role models to glean insights from their experiences. The objective is to equip participants with the necessary tools and guidance to nurture and expand successful businesses.

Diane Nesbitt, from Purple Velvet, has shared her positive experience with the Ambition programme, emphasizing the valuable insights and guidance it has provided. The programme has allowed her to gain a wider perspective on the potential of her business, propelling it forward on both a national and potentially international scale. The structured content, coupled with the support and guidance, has proved invaluable for Diane, enabling her to capitalize on various business opportunities.

Following Diane’s involvement in the Ambition programme, she has completed the Food Starter Programme and secured a place in the Food Academy, a specialized Food Business Development programme. This opportunity has facilitated comprehensive training in various aspects of operating a food business, encompassing market research, branding, and business development.

The Ambition programme will encompass 12 workshops, delving into the fundamental building blocks for female entrepreneurs to flourish. These workshops will furnish valuable insights and practical knowledge to equip participants with the skills necessary for business success. Female entrepreneurs interested in the programme can access further information and submit their applications through the Local Enterprise Office Donegal website.

In conclusion, the Ambition programme presents a unique opportunity for female entrepreneurs in Donegal to bring their business ideas to fruition and realize their entrepreneurial aspirations. With a robust support system in place, including mentoring, workshops, and access to resources, the programme aims to empower women to pursue their entrepreneurial objectives and make a significant impact in the business sphere.