Business owners in the north Mayo area are being encouraged to attend an upcoming Ideas Over Coffee session in IQ Ballina that will directly influence the development of future mentoring, training and management development supports they can later avail of themselves. 

The initiative, delivered by Local Enterprise Office Mayo (LEO Mayo), Connected Hubs and IQ Ballina, will take place from 9.30am to 11am on Wednesday, March 18. Rather than a formal seminar, the event is structured as an open, participant-led discussion focused on the real and current challenges facing businesses. 

The session is open to enterprises operating both within and beyond the Connected Hubs network, including start-ups and microbusinesses. Businesses from the north Mayo area are are invited to contribute their perspectives and help inform the design of practical, relevant supports for the year ahead. 

“This is about listening first,” said John Magee, LEO Mayo. “By engaging directly with business owners and hub users, we can ensure that future mentoring and training programmes are grounded in the realities of running a business today and tailored to genuine needs.” 

“IQ Ballina is delighted to host this event. When business owners come together in a relaxed setting, it creates space for honest discussion and practical insight. That feedback is invaluable in shaping supports that will make a real difference on the ground,” Jacqueline Kinsella, Manager, IQ Ballina. 

Attendees will have the opportunity to exchange ideas, connect with fellow entrepreneurs and play a direct role in influencing future initiatives. Interested participants can simply attend on the morning as registration is not necessary.  

Further information is available from Liam Horan at liamhoran@wdc.ie.