WEALTH May 22, 2026 0 Comments

Discover the Untold Secrets Behind the Seven Powerhouse Women Dominating West Cork’s Business Scene—Are You Ready to Learn Their Winning Formula?

Ever wonder what it takes to light up the business scene in a place like West Cork? Well, this past week proved that female business talent in the region isn’t just growing—it’s thriving and dazzling like never before. The Network Ireland West Cork Businesswoman of the Year Awards 2026, held at the charming Dunmore House Hotel on May 21, showcased an inspiring mix of entrepreneurs, professionals, and creatives who are not just playing the game but redefining it. With seven standout winners, the event was a brilliant blend of celebration, networking, and spotlight moments—reminding us all that behind every successful business is a powerhouse woman leading the charge. If you think business talent in West Cork is just a quiet affair, think again; these awards underscore the fierce, innovative spirit of women pushing boundaries and building communities every day. Curious to dive deeper into who’s making waves and how this celebration unfolded? LEARN MORE

Female business talent across West Cork was celebrated this week at the Network Ireland West Cork Businesswoman of the Year Awards 2026, with seven winners announced at a ceremony held in the Dunmore House Hotel on Thursday 21 May.

The annual awards, now a key fixture in the regional business calendar, brought together entrepreneurs, professionals and creatives from across the region for an evening of recognition, networking and celebration.

Hosted by journalist, author and broadcaster Esther McCarthy, the event featured live music, entertainment and a drinks reception sponsored by Fusion Home Design and Bushby’s Strawberries, Rosscarbery, with additional support from Maxol Cantillon Clonakilty.

The awards, organised by Network Ireland West Cork, recognised excellence across seven categories, highlighting the depth and diversity of women-led enterprise in the region.

Speaking at the event, Network Ireland West Cork President Anna Groniecka said the standard of entries this year was exceptionally high.

“The Businesswoman of the Year awards are a celebration not only of business success, but of the incredible women behind those businesses,” she said.

“Women who continue to lead, innovate, support their communities and inspire others every single day. The standard of entries this year was truly exceptional and we are incredibly proud of all of our finalists and winners.”

She added that the event highlights “the power of connection, community and women supporting women”.

The ceremony was supported by a range of sponsors and partners, including Scally’s of Clonakilty SuperValu, Clonakilty Food Company, Groupe Clarins, Cork County Council, RH Vintage Interiors and MSD Brinny. Organisers also paid tribute to the judging panel of Kevin Curran, Tracey Cooney and Avril Allshire-Howe, as well as the hotel team at Dunmore House and floral designer Flicky Howe of Howe Hill Flowers.

The 2026 winners were announced as follows:

Emerging New Businesswoman (Sponsored by Scally’s of Clonakilty SuperValu): Melissa Clarke, Melissa Clarke PR
Established Businesswoman (Sponsored by Clonakilty Food Company): Maria O’Donovan, Maria O’Donovan & Co
Advanced-Career Employee (Sponsored by Groupe Clarins): Elle O’Sullivan McCarthy, The Hope Foundation
Networker of the Year (Sponsored by Cork County Council): Majella Galvin, DNG Galvin
Creative Professional (Sponsored by RH Vintage Interiors): Liz Ehrenberg-Redl, Coffeehouse Creative
Solo Businesswoman (Sponsored by MSD Brinny): Mary Cotter, Mary Cotter Nutrition
STEM Professional (Sponsored by MSD Brinny): Clara Mulligan, HomeBot Ireland

Organisers said the 22 applications across seven categories reflected the continued growth and impact of women-led businesses in West Cork, particularly in job creation, community development and entrepreneurship.

Special recognition was given to Vice President and Awards Coordinator Susan Collins Duggan for her role in delivering the event.

Network West Cork Award nominees at the Network Ireland West Cork Businesswoman of the year Awards 2026 in the Dunmore House Hotel. Photography Darragh Kane

Winners from West Cork will now go forward to represent the region at the Network Ireland Businesswoman of the Year Awards later this year in Galway, where they will compete against finalists from 17 branches nationwide.

Network Ireland West Cork said it will continue to support members throughout the year through mentoring, events and networking initiatives aimed at strengthening women’s professional development and business growth.