Prime Highlights:
- Three new programmes – WeBuild, WeGrow, and WeScaleare launching in early 2026 to support women entrepreneurs across Ireland at every stage of their business journey.
- Participants will gain access to mentorship, tailored guidance, workshops, and networking opportunitiesto help grow and scale their businesses.
Key Facts:
- WeBuildis a technology-focused programme by TechFoundHer, aimed at helping women develop tech-related businesses.
- The initiative is part of the Shared Island Enterprise Scheme, backed by €30 million in government fundingto promote women’s entrepreneurship on an all-island basis.
Background:
Women entrepreneurs in Waterford and across Ireland are being invited to join three new programmes designed to help them grow, innovate, and expand their businesses.
The initiatives are part of the Shared Island Enterprise Scheme, led by InterTradeIreland in partnership with Invest Northern Ireland and Enterprise Ireland. Starting in early 2026, the programmes will support women at every stage of their business journey, from new ventures to growing established companies. Participants will receive mentorship, guidance, workshops, and networking opportunities to help their businesses grow.
The three programmes include: WeBuild, a technology-focused programme run by TechFoundHer, designed to help women develop and grow tech-related businesses. It focuses on innovation, AI-driven tools, and building future-ready businesses.
WeGrow, designed for established women-led SMEs, this programme helps business owners reflect on growth potential and expand strategically. It is delivered by Women in Business NI in partnership with Network Ireland.
WeScale, focused on scaling businesses, this programme provides bespoke mentoring, investor access, and strategic guidance. It is run by AwakenHub and supports women entrepreneurs looking to expand nationally and internationally.
Speaking about the tech programme, Máirín Murray, co-founder of TechFoundHer, said, “With modern tools like GenAI and no-code platforms, women can bring tech ideas to life faster than ever. WeBuild is about creating credible ventures that attract investors and customers alike.”
Roisin McDermott, Head of Entrepreneurship at Women in Business NI, highlighted the growth programme, “WeGrow offers a strategic pause for business owners to reflect, plan, and connect with mentors and peers, helping them map out their next stage of growth.”
Denise McQuaid from AwakenHub, which leads the scaling programme, added, “WeScale equips women founders with the mentorship, networks, and tools to expand their businesses internationally, while building a strong peer community along the way.”
Applications for WeBuild, WeGrow, and WeScale are now open. More information, including eligibility criteria, is available at InterTradeIreland Women’s Entrepreneurship.
This initiative follows the Government of Ireland’s announcement in February 2024 of €30 million funding for the Shared Island Enterprise Scheme, with a focus on promoting women’s entrepreneurship across the island.
