Enterprise Week 2026 set to inspire local businesses through stories, skills and fresh perspectives

16
Three people holding a sign that says ABC Enterprise Week
Launching Enterprise Week 2026 is guest speaker Kieran Kelly from ubloquity, Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon, Councillor Mary O’Dowd, and ABC Interim Chief Executive, Charlene Stoops.

From reinvention and resilience to succession planning, wellbeing and artificial intelligence, this year’s Enterprise Week programme will bring a week of inspiring conversations and practical learning opportunities to businesses across the Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough.

Organised by Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council, Enterprise Week 2026 will take place from Monday 16 to Friday 20 November, under the theme Entrepreneurs Thrive Here. The week’s programme offers a series of free events designed to inform, inspire and support entrepreneurs, business owners and those considering a new venture.

The week begins on Monday 16 November at The Palace, Armagh, with ‘When ‘Plan A’ Disappears’, where entrepreneur Kieran Kelly shares a powerful story of resilience, reinvention and finding new opportunities when life takes an unexpected turn.

Throughout the week, the programme will explore some of the most important issues facing businesses today. Events include a discussion on succession planning and protecting your business legacy with Catherine Muldoon from Employee Ownership Ireland, a breakfast conversation focused on the wellbeing of business owners, and an inspiring panel event featuring four local female entrepreneurs; Laura Vogan (S’more’a’licious), Charlene McKinstry (Gracehill Flowers), Leanne Seeley (Simply Beautiful) and Dr Jayne Vaughan (Fresh Aesthetics & Skin).

The programme concludes on Friday 20 November with a dedicated digital skills day at Tommy Makem Arts and Community Centre, Keady. Alongside a live demo, ‘AI in an Hour’ session, attendees will have the opportunity to participate in hands-on DigiLabs workshops covering virtual reality, AI-powered marketing and podcasting for business. These workshops are part of DS3, a project supported by PEACEPLUS, a programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB). PEACEPLUS is co-funded by the European Union, the Government of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, the Government of Ireland, and the Northern Ireland Executive.

Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough, Councillor Mary O’Dowd said: “Enterprise Week is about more than business advice. It is about people, their stories and the challenges and opportunities they face every day. This year’s programme explores some of the most important conversations in business, from adapting when circumstances change and planning for the future, to protecting your wellbeing and embracing new technology. Whether you are running an established business, growing a new idea or considering taking that first step, I would encourage you to come along, be inspired and connect with others from across the borough.”

The Enterprise Week programme reflects Council’s continued commitment to supporting enterprise, encouraging innovation and helping local businesses build resilience, confidence and skills for the future.

For full event details and free registration information, visit: www.armaghbanbridgecraigavon.gov.uk/business/enterpriseweek