New season of support launches for women in business across Mid and East Antrim

A new autumn and winter programme from Enterprising Women Mid and East Antrim is offering female entrepreneurs practical workshops, networking opportunities and business support. Sessions will cover finance, Meta Ads, confidence building and more.

Female entrepreneurs across Mid and East Antrim are being encouraged to take advantage of a new season of business support, training and networking through the Enterprising Women Mid and East Antrim programme.

The latest autumn and winter schedule has been developed following feedback from members, with organisers aiming to provide practical support for women who are starting a business, developing an established company or looking to expand their professional network.

Find out more: Enterprising Women Mid and East Antrim

Practical support for women in business

The new programme will feature sessions covering a range of areas identified as important to local entrepreneurs.

Topics will include:

• Business finance
• Meta Ads and digital marketing
• Confidence building
• Business development
• Networking and relationship building
• Opportunities to share knowledge with other entrepreneurs

Alongside workshops and practical sessions, networking events will give members opportunities to meet other businesswomen, exchange ideas and develop new connections.

Enterprising Women is a dedicated network which supports both new and established female entrepreneurs across Mid and East Antrim. Its aim is to help members connect, grow in confidence, develop their networks and collaborate with like-minded women.

Useful link: Find out more about Enterprising Women

Mayor welcomes new Enterprising Women programme

Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Alderman Thomas Gordon, welcomed the launch of the latest programme.

“The positive impact of Enterprising Women is a valuable way to showcase the Council’s investment in local entrepreneurs. The opportunities to improve confidence, expand networks and get any needed support allows female entrepreneurs from across Mid and East Antrim to strengthen our local economy.”

He added:

“I’m delighted to see the new season programme launched and look forward to seeing even more women benefit from this fantastic initiative.”

The programme forms part of wider business support available through Mid and East Antrim Borough Council.

The Council describes Enterprising Women as a free network for female entrepreneurs who live in the borough or operate a business within Mid and East Antrim.

Enterprising Women network continues to grow

Enterprising Women has been supporting new and established female entrepreneurs since 2018.

The latest information supplied with the programme launch says the network has 182 members across the borough, working in sectors ranging from retail and tourism to artisan businesses and professional services.

The network has grown steadily in recent years. In April 2026, Mid and East Antrim Borough Council reported that more than 160 women were involved in the programme.

The official Enterprising Women members directory also showcases businesses operating across sectors including hospitality, retail, technology, tourism, health and fitness, manufacturing and professional services.

Programme shaped by feedback from members

Kelli McRoberts, CEO of Carrickfergus Enterprise, said the latest schedule had been designed around what members said they wanted from the network.

“We have once again listened to our members and have put together an exciting programme of events, ensuring the topics and speakers truly reflect what matters to them.”

She added:

“The continued growth of our network is fantastic and offers up new insights and networking opportunities. I look forward to welcoming both familiar faces and new members to what promises to be a fantastic season ahead.”

Carrickfergus Enterprise manages the Enterprising Women programme in partnership with Ballymena Business Centre.

More information: Visit Carrickfergus Enterprise

Partnership aims to build confidence and connections

Amanda Jones of Ballymena Business Centre said the organisation was pleased to once again partner with Carrickfergus Enterprise.

“Ballymena Business Centre is pleased to once again partner with Carrickfergus Enterprise. By joining forces, we provide the necessary support and inspiration to help build personal confidence and explore networking opportunities to flourish in business.”

The partnership has previously delivered networking, workshops, mentoring and residential programmes for local female entrepreneurs.

Earlier in 2026, 28 members attended the fourth annual Enterprising Women Residential at the Dunadry Hotel, which focused on confidence, connections and peer support.

Who funds Enterprising Women Mid and East Antrim?

Enterprising Women is funded by Mid and East Antrim Borough Council and managed by Carrickfergus Enterprise, in partnership with Ballymena Business Centre.

Useful official links:

• Enterprising Women
• Enterprising Women members directory
• Mid and East Antrim Borough Council business support
• Carrickfergus Enterprise

How to join Enterprising Women

Women interested in joining the network or finding details of upcoming events can visit the official Enterprising Women website.

Join or find out more about Enterprising Women

The programme is aimed at women at different stages of their business journey, from those exploring an initial idea to established entrepreneurs looking to grow their companies and make new connections.