NETWORK Ireland’s West Cork branch has launched its annual Businesswoman of the Year Awards, with nominations now live.

The awards are divided into eight categories - Networker of the Year; Emerging Businesswoman, Solo Businesswoman, Established Businesswoman, Early Career Employee, Advanced Career Employee, Creative Professional and STEM Professional.

Members of Network Ireland West Cork are eligible to enter the branch awards, which will take place on Thursday May 21st at Dunmore House Hotel in Clonakilty.

Winners will then be put forward to the Network Ireland Businesswoman of the Year Awards to represent the branch at a national level in September.

Last year Carly O’Donovan, of Bluebird Care Kerry & West Cork, went on to win the National Established Businesswoman of the Year 2025.

Representing the Network Ireland West Cork branch, Carly’s win marked a major milestone for the West Cork region as the first national award winner for the branch since 2019.

Anna Groniecka, President of Network Ireland West Cork said: ‘The Network Ireland West Cork Businesswoman of the Year Awards celebrate the courage, creativity and commitment of women who are not only shaping business in our region but who are choosing to rise beyond fear, beyond limits and beyond old stories that no longer serve them.’

The West Cork branch holds monthly events throughout the year for both members and non-members to attend.

Details on upcoming events, membership and the Businesswoman of the Year Award nominations can be found at www.networkireland.ie