Business owners, entrepreneurs and remote workers gathered in Enterprising Monaghan this week for a collaborative Ideas Over Coffee session aimed at shaping future business supports in the region. 

The pilot initiative, delivered by the Local Enterprise Office Monaghan in collaboration with Connected Hubs and Enterprising Monaghan, brought together fifteen local business representatives for an open and informal discussion on the challenges and opportunities facing businesses. 

Rather than a traditional presentation, the session was designed as a conversation-led forum where participants set the agenda. The goal was simple: to gather direct insight from entrepreneurs that can inform future mentoring, training and management development supports. 

The group reflected the diversity of the local enterprise landscape, including microbusinesses, remote workers and established local companies. 

Key themes from the discussion 

Several important topics emerged during the conversation:  

Strengthening networking opportunities 

Participants highlighted the need for more consistent and meaningful networking opportunities for local businesses. There was strong interest in building a more connected business community across the region.  

Digitisation and AI 
Many businesses are navigating the rapidly evolving digital landscape. From automation to artificial intelligence, participants discussed how training and guidance could help businesses adopt these technologies effectively. 

Navigating funding programmes 
The funding environment for businesses is evolving, and attendees noted the importance of clear guidance on available supports and how businesses can access them. 

Local business advocacy 
The discussion also touched on the value of stronger local advocacy for businesses that would ensure the needs and perspectives of local enterprises are represented in decision-making. 

Centralised business services 
Another idea explored was the potential for more centralised services that could support businesses with practical needs such as administration, digital tools and operational support. 

A bottom-up approach to business supports 

By bringing businesses together in an informal setting, the Ideas Over Coffee format encourages honest conversation and real-world insight. 

The feedback gathered will help inform the design of future programmes and supports planned for 2026 with an emphasis on ensuring they respond directly to the needs of the local business community. 

With strong engagement and thoughtful discussion throughout the morning, the session demonstrated the value of creating spaces where entrepreneurs can share ideas, learn from one another and shape the future of enterprise support together.