CORK’S small business sector is preparing for a significant week of activity as Local Enterprise Week 2026 returns from March 2nd to 6th, bringing a full programme of events aimed at entrepreneurs, start ups and established SMEs.

Organised by Cork County Council’s Local Enterprise Offices (LEOs), the week-long initiative is aimed at encouraging business growth, innovation and sustainable job creation across the county.

The initiative comes on the back of a strong year for LEO supported businesses, with companies in South Cork adding hundreds of roles, lifting total employment across the region to more than 2,300 people.

Cork County Council was one of the strongest-performing LEOs in the country, ranking seventh nationally for jobs growth, underlining the momentum in the county’s small-business sector.

Local Enterprise Week 2026 will offer a dynamic mix of online and in-person events.

Business owners will have the opportunity to gain valuable insights while connecting with industry experts and peers throughout the week.

Highlights of the week include an Innovate to Elevate full-day event in Inchydoney Hotel on March 5th, hosted by entrepreneur Bobby Kerr and featuring innovation specialist Brian Cahill and sustainability advisor Annie Duffy.

Business leaders from Spice O’Life and West Cork Distillers will also share practical and personal insights on innovation and competitiveness.

Throughout the week, attendees will have access to workshops and masterclasses on digital transformation, retail growth, financial planning and exporting, along with networking sessions and business clinics offering expert guidance on scaling and innovation.

Many events are free to attend, but early booking is advised.

For full details and registration, visit www.localenterprise.ie and follow #LocalEnterprise on social media for updates.