Business owners and entrepreneurs came together at the Leeson Enterprise Centre in Westport for an Ideas Over Coffee session focused on the realities of running and growing a business.

Part of a wider pilot led by Connected Hubs / Western Development Commission in collaboration with Local Enterprise Office Mayo, the session brought together participants from a broad mix of sectors, including retail, engineering, professional services, training, financial services and community organisations.

The format was informal and led by the participants. It allowed participants to raise the issues most relevant to them.

A key theme throughout the session was the rising cost of doing business. Participants spoke about the challenge of maintaining margins while continuing to invest in their operations.

Digital tools and systems featured strongly in the discussion, particularly the challenge of getting different systems to work together effectively. Views on digitisation varied, with some businesses exploring further adoption, while others were focused on ensuring their current systems were appropriate and delivering value. Cybersecurity and IT resilience were also highlighted as ongoing concerns.

Opportunities for growth were explored, alongside the need to adapt business models in response to changing conditions. Access to suitable commercial space emerged as a practical barrier, with participants noting constraints in existing premises and raising the question of whether incentives could support availability.

Operational challenges, including supply chain pressures, continue to impact businesses. At the same time, there was strong emphasis on maintaining high standards of customer service and making informed decisions at key stages of business development.

Participants also shared practical approaches to managing workload, including outsourcing certain functions such as digital marketing to access specialist expertise and free up time internally. The session provided valuable opportunities for peer learning, with participants exchanging insights and experiences across sectors.

The insights gathered will inform the next phase of the pilot and contribute to the development of practical mentoring, training and management supports that reflect real business needs.