‘Vision, Impact, Lead’ – Mid Ulster Businesses Inspired to Think Big at Seventh Enterprise Week
A fantastic 1174 people took part in Mid Ulster District Council’s seventh Enterprise Week (17–21 November), engaging in 14 free online and in-person events centred on the theme ‘Vision, Impact, Lead’.
The week celebrated the remarkable journeys of local businesses while showcasing how Mid Ulster entrepreneurs are driving innovation, creating real impact in their communities, and stepping up to lead with purpose and confidence — all essential ingredients for long-term success.
The week opened with ‘Power Up Mid Ulster: Grants, Growth and Guidance’, setting the tone for a week of insight and inspiration.
Hosted by broadcaster and journalist Donna Traynor, the event featured an expert panel including Celine McCartan (South West College), Janet Toal (InterTradeIreland), Ruth Robinson (Full Circle Management Solutions), and Ciaran O’Kane (Invest NI). Together, they explored practical ways local businesses can access support and funding to fuel growth and innovation.
A series of online webinars gave businesses the tools to strengthen their marketing, digital presence, and financial understanding.
Highlights included:
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‘SEO Secrets for Small Businesses’ with digital experts Digital 24
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‘Cracking the Code: How to Make Your Business Go Viral’ led by Niamh MacAuley (Purple Dot Media) and Safron Thomas (Prana Digital)
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‘The Numbers That Matter: Understanding Your Business Finance Without the Jargon’ with Annette Kilpatrick (CooperParry).
Delegates also explored how to lead with purpose and vision in ‘The Scaling Mindset: Lessons on Leading with Vision and Impact’ with scaling coach, author and investor Brendan McGurgan.
Real-life stories of enterprise and resilience were a key part of the programme, with sessions featuring Stephen Beattie (Seed Salads) and acclaimed chef Niall McKenna (Waterman House) sharing their entrepreneurial journeys.
The ‘Beyond Business: Journeys and Wisdom from Women Entrepreneurs’ event proved a highlight of the week. Hosted by broadcaster Lynette Fay, the session brought together an inspiring panel of local women in business who offered honest insights, advice, and encouragement to others following in their footsteps.
From finance and marketing to AI and the local economy, Mid Ulster Enterprise Week 2025 offered something for every stage of the business journey.
Commenting on the success of this year’s Enterprise Week, Councillor Frances Burton, Chair of the Council, said:
Mid Ulster Enterprise Week continues to go from strength to strength, and this year’s theme – ‘Vision, Impact, Lead’ – truly captured the ambition and entrepreneurial spirit that defines our district. It has been inspiring to see so many local businesses, entrepreneurs, and partners come together to share ideas, develop new skills, and look to the future with confidence. Mid Ulster is a region built on enterprise and innovation, and the success of our seventh Enterprise Week is a testament to the hard work, creativity, and resilience of our business community. As a Council, we remain committed to supporting that drive, helping our businesses to grow, compete, and lead the way both locally and beyond.
Businesses praised the week’s events, describing them as “'Very informative”, “great networking”, and “beneficial for my business” — reflecting the energy and enthusiasm of Mid Ulster’s business community.
Participants were also entered into a prize draw, with winners to be announced on the Council’s Facebook page.
If you missed any sessions, recordings are available now on the Mid Ulster District Council YouTube channel.