Thirty women in the running for awards at Network Ireland Kilkenny Businesswoman of the Year Awards

The spotlight will shine on some of Kilkenny's inspiring career women as Network Ireland Kilkenny hosts its highly anticipated Businesswoman of the Year Awards at the Lyrath Estate Hotel pn Sunday, June 28.

This year's awards mark another significant milestone for the organisation. Network Ireland Kilkenny received a record number of nominations.

Thirty women are finalists across eight categories, filling 36 finalist spots; six individuals are shortlisted for multiple categories, including Networker of the Year.

The 36 category finalists represent an impressive cross-section of Kilkenny's business community, spanning industries from science and technology to creative enterprise, professional services, hospitality, retail, and health and wellbeing. Across eight categories, including Creative Professional, Networker of the Year, Early Career Professional, Advanced Career Professional, Solo Businesswoman of the Year, Established Businesswoman of the Year, Emerging Businesswoman of the Year, and STEM Businesswoman/Professional of the Year. The finalists embody excellence, resilience and innovation.

Amid rapid change in the business landscape, the Kilkenny Businesswoman of the Year awards provide an important opportunity to recognise the women who are driving progress, creating employment, building successful enterprises and contributing to the economic and social fabric of Kilkenny.

The gala event will be hosted by Cáit Mackey-Maher, founder of Yellow Deer Designs and Ex Officio member of Network Ireland Kilkenny, with support from Karen Ronan, National President of Network Ireland. Together, they will lead an evening dedicated to celebrating achievement, ambition and entrepreneurial leadership.

The awards are proudly presented in collaboration with AIB, Local Enterprise Office Kilkenny and Pembroke Hotel. Additional support comes from Lyrath Estate Hotel, Eno Wines, Ballykeeffe Distillery and Glanbia, helping to make this important celebration possible.

Speaking ahead of the event, Lucie Dowling, President of Network Ireland Kilkenny and People and Culture Director at Pembroke Kilkenny, highlighted the exceptional calibre of this year's entrants.

"The response to this year's Businesswoman of the Year Awards has been incredible. Across our eight categories, we received 36 inspiring applications that showcase the exceptional talent, leadership and innovation of women in business across Kilkenny.

"The awards on the 28th of June will be a celebration of not only our finalists and winners, but also the supportive and ambitious culture within our network. Our wonderful committee are in the process of curating a very special evening with Lyrath Estate Hotel and our event sponsors.”

As Kilkenny gathers to celebrate the finalists, the awards serve as a powerful reminder that when women succeed in business, entire communities benefit. The finalists have already earned their place among Kilkenny's leading business voices. On 28th June, the county will come together to celebrate their achievements and the bright future they continue to build.

"A sense of community remains at the heart of Network Ireland Kilkenny's success. While trophies will be awarded on the night, the true achievement lies in the stories behind the nominations, stories of courage, determination, creativity, leadership, and impact.

The award celebration is open to everyone. We would love more people from our community to join us in celebrating these remarkable women, enjoying a fantastic evening and being part of a wonderful showcase of business and community." Ms Dowling concluded

Tickets for the event are available through the Network Ireland website networkireland.ie/events.