Kildare female entrepreneurs urged to sign up for programme

A business programme for female entrepreneurs is set to accept its 1,000th participant next month. The ‘Going for Growth’ programme aims to help female business owners reach a higher standard and is now in entering its 17th cycle. The programme, which was first launched in 2008, is supported by Enterprise Ireland and KPMG. The new six-month cycle of the programme will start on 14 January 2025 and there are 60 places available on it. The deadline for applications is Friday 15 November. 

Michelle Lawlor is the co-founder of the Nude Wine Company which delivers wine nationwide. Michelle was a participant in Starting Strong, Going for Growth’s secondary programme for earlier stage businesses in 2021 and has just completed the 16th cycle of Going for Growth.

Michelle, says: “If someone ever suggests to you that you apply for Going for Growth, do it! It has the power to transform you and your business! Our lead entrepreneur provided guidance and expertise which has been invaluable. The Going for Growth programme provided clear, actionable steps that have made a tangible difference in our growth trajectory. The network and support system fostered here is the best thing about it. Having a group of peers, who happen to be women, within the programme is unparalleled, offering continuous motivation and encouragement. I wholeheartedly recommend Going for Growth to any entrepreneur looking to take their business to the next level.” 

Fiona Uyema founded Fused, an award-winning premium Asian food company with a range of retail products stocked in major retailers across Ireland and further afield. Fiona has just completed the Going for Growth programme.

She says: “The Going for Growth programme gave me access to a unique network of female entrepreneurs in different industries with incredible experience and insights. The programme has helped me drive my business to the next level and overcome challenges along the way. And the bonus is I’ve forged trusted relationships and friendships that are so supportive and fantastic sounding boards.” 

Going for Growth brings together female entrepreneurs for monthly peer-to-peer roundtable discussions, facilitated by successful businesswomen, known as ‘lead entrepreneurs’. The programme 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.