ACORNS Initiative Looking for Ambitious Female Entrepreneurs in Rural Ireland

The very successful ACORNS programme is looking for ambitious female entrepreneurs from Westmeath and beyond to join its ranks in order to encourage entrepreneurial spirit and boost enterprises in rural Ireland. This free development programme has been critical in assisting and encouraging early-stage female entrepreneurs to achieve their aspirations.

Eibhlin Fitzpatrick, the creator of The Refill Mill in Mullingar, is one such success story. According to Eibhlin, "I was thrilled to be a part of ACORNS 8; it has been invaluable to my business." Her quest began with her dissatisfaction with the excessive usage of plastic wrapping in everyday things. She founded The Refill Mill, a plastic-free retail outlet that encourages customers to lessen their dependency on single-use plastics, because she was determined to make a difference. Eibhlin's experience with ACORNS was revolutionary, pushing her outside her comfort zone and allowing her to establish and accomplish lofty business goals. She wholeheartedly recommends the programme to other female entrepreneurs looking for a positive support system.

Charlie McConalogue TD, Minister for Agriculture, Food, and the Marine, has opened the call for applications for the 9th cycle of ACORNS. ACORNS, which is financed by the Department's Rural Innovation and Development Fund, has a track record of encouraging female entrepreneurs to expand and innovate.

The accomplishments of the 46 ACORNS 8 participants attest to the program's effectiveness. They reported significant growth in their enterprises during the last six months, with their total turnover virtually tripling from €1.9 million to €3.6 million by April 2023. Furthermore, ACORNS 8 participants increased their workforce, employing 96 people (55 full-time and 41 part-time) by the conclusion of the cycle, a significant gain of 16 positions. Five new exporters emerged throughout the period as well.

ACORNS 9 applications are currently open, and 50 prospective female entrepreneurs will have the opportunity to participate in this groundbreaking programme from October 2023 to April 2024. Those interested should register on the program's website and apply by September 22 at midnight. ACORNS is based on the notion that peer connections assist early-stage entrepreneurs the greatest. The program's heart is formed by monthly round table discussions guided by experienced Lead Entrepreneurs who have successfully established firms in rural Ireland. These Lead Entrepreneurs provide their time freely to help and coach participants.

ACORNS eligibility is limited to early-stage female entrepreneurs in rural Ireland with no sales before the end of June 2020. The program's ongoing success is made possible by the Department of Agriculture, Food, and the Marine's constant support, as well as the passionate efforts of the Lead Entrepreneurs, who believe in the power of 'entrepreneurs assisting entrepreneurs.'

Anne Reilly (formerly Paycheck Plus), Caroline Reidy (The HR Suite), Deirdre McGlone (Hospitality and Tourism Advisor), Eimer Hannon (Hannon Travel), Larissa Feeney (Accountant Online), Mary B Walsh (Ire Wel Pallets), and Triona MacGiolla R (Aró Digital Strategies) are this year's voluntary Lead Entrepreneurs.

Minister McConalogue expressed his support for the ACORNS initiative during the project's opening, emphasising the necessity of creating a support network for rural businesses. He emphasised the program's beneficial impact, noting increased sales and employment creation among participants.

With the 9th ACORNS Programme on the horizon, female entrepreneurs in rural Ireland have an excellent chance to realise their business goals, network with colleagues, and make a significant contribution to society. The programme is still going strong, owing to the passion of its participants and the support of its funders, and it is having a long-term influence on the business environment of rural Ireland.