The ACORNS programme provided amazing support from fellow female entrepreneurs, which was absolutely invaluable. I received encouragement, support and friendship from an incredibly inspiring group of women. The guidance from Lead Entrepreneur Eimer Hannon was outstanding, and I gained so much from the in-person round table sessions. Paula Fitzsimons and her team were fantastic, working tirelessly to ensure female entrepreneurship thrives in rural Ireland. I’m truly grateful for this opportunity and highly recommend the programme to others.
-Aoife Finnegan, Curio PR
Being part of the ACORNS programme has been a truly transformative experience. From day one, I felt incredibly grateful and inspired to be surrounded by such a supportive group of ambitious, like-minded female entrepreneurs. The confidence I’ve gained — both personally and within my business — simply wouldn’t have been possible without this journey. One of the most invaluable aspects for me was the networking. I’ve connected with so many incredible women and discovered potential collaborations I never would have known about otherwise. The wealth of knowledge and experience around the table was phenomenal, and we all learned so much from one another in a wonderfully open and transparent environment. The structure and content of the programme were also spot on. It kept us accountable, focused, and motivated to achieve the goals we set right from our very first session. I’m so thankful to have had the opportunity to be part of ACORNS — it’s an experience I’ll carry with me always.
-Barbara Lynch, Four Sisters
I cannot recommend the ACORNS programme enough to female entrepreneurs with early-stage businesses. The community advice and support is invaluable. Never underestimate what is possible when you have a support crew, on a similar journey to you, prompting and gently pushing you towards your goals. Highly, highly recommend!
-Bridget Johnson, Finaha Consulting
The ACORNS programme has been so beneficial for me. To get the help, insight and knowledge from so many different angles and perspectives. I can’t wait to see how my business grows after ACORNS 10.
-Bronagh Rogers, Bean and Bread
At this crucial time for Eirmersive, with state funding for the team for this calendar year to support the Roadmap for Digital Creative Industries 2024-2026, I worked on goals relating to sustainability funding for the organisation. The group support, knowledge from our Lead Entrepreneur, and accountability on goal setting was very valuable.
-Camille Donegan, Eirmersive
If you are considering applying for ACORNS, this is your sign to do it. To use (an appropriate!) cliche here… you have nothing to lose, and everything to gain. I am a wedding celebrant, and I come from a teaching and journalism background, not a business background. I believe ACORNS bridged the gap and equipped me with the confidence to forge ahead as an entrepreneur, supported every step of the way by a network of intelligent female business owners. Paula and her team, run an excellent programme and I’m grateful for the opportunity.
-Catriona Doherty, Catriona Doherty Celebrant
Being part of the ACORNS programme was truly transformational for both myself and my business, Inish Living. As a mom of 2 young children, building a brand from rural Ireland, the entire ACORNS experience gave me not only invaluable business knowledge-particularly around financial planning and strategy-but also a deep sense of support and connection. Our round table sessions, led by the brilliant Caroline Reidy, were packed with insights and encouragement. Her expertise and real-world advice made a huge impact, and her leadership created a space where we could all grow in confidence and capability. The peer support was incredible. I’ve gained genuine friendships and a powerful network of like-minded, ambitious women. I can wholeheartedly say that ACORNS helped shape the future of my business, giving me the tools, clarity, and belief to take Inish Living to the next level. I’m so grateful for the experience, all made possible through the visionary leadership and support of Paula Fitzsimons, a true trailblazer for women in business. I would recommend without hesitation for female entrepreneurs in rural Ireland to apply.
-Christina Foley, Inish Living
Being part of ACORNS has been immensely beneficial to my confidence, trust in my own abilities and vision, and has helped me to know that everything I am creating is worth it. The power of being surrounded by resilient, driven women, every one of them with their own story and inner struggles, is an unshakable force for positive change. Being a business owner can be lonely to begin with, especially if you don´t have the most supportive environment. So much of who we can become is down to the community we are nurtured by, so give yourself a chance to be part of this community, to be a woman shaping the future of rural Ireland.
– Ciara Moynihan, CM Space
I took on some big goals to grow my business in 2025 and without the support of ACORNS I don’t think I would have overcome the various obstacles I faced. Through regular check-ins and maintaining my focus I’ve been able to secure a significant amount of funding which will now enable me to grow sales by 75% and profits by 90%.
-Ciara O Brien, Barnahown
As a female business owner, finding a strong, supportive network can be a challenge — but ACORNS provided just that and more. The women in my group quickly became my ‘board of directors’ — they inspire me, challenge me, and keep me accountable. The programme is brilliantly managed, with monthly meetings that are both practical and energising. I gained invaluable insights from my Lead Entrepreneur and fellow participants, and I’m now part of a wider community filled with experts across so many different industries. If you’re running a business in a rural area and looking to grow, connect, and be part of something truly empowering — I can’t recommend ACORNS highly enough.
-Ciara Spillane, Positive Prospects
ACORNS has been instrumental in the growth of my business. The roundtable sessions with my group gave me accountability, encouragement and the support that has been so valuable in propelling my business forward and achieving my goals. For any rural female founders, if you have the opportunity to go for ACORNS, do it!
-Clare Tully, Thrive Social
ACORNS was such a valuable experience. Our Lead Entrepreneur, Geraldine, offered support and advice throughout- sharing her experience in a way that was really helpful. Being part of a group of supportive women who understood the ups and downs of running a business made a huge difference. It was such a safe space to share, reflect, and learn from each other. I came away from the programme feeling encouraged, inspired, and much clearer about the direction I want to take.
-Claudine McGowan, etchilit
I am very grateful to have been a part of ACORNS 10. This initiative has enabled me to create a strong foundation for my business as well as provided access to a network of amazing women across Ireland working across a wide variety of sectors. I had big dreams but no real plan on how to achieve them coming into this. I bounced from idea to idea and couldn’t stick to a real solid plan. These last 6 months have enabled me to take action and move towards this vision with confidence and discipline to bring these dreams into reality. I’m in the early stages of my business but I feel confident in my ability to make this business a long term success. Thank you to the ACORNS team and the Department of Agriculture, Food and Marine for making it happen. Your efforts have not gone unnoticed.
-Ena Reale, Reale Recovery
ACORNS gave me the clarity and confidence I needed. Being surrounded by like-minded women entrepreneurs and supported by experienced Lead Entrepreneurs helped me sharpen my focus and take real steps forward in my business. The encouragement from other women on a similar journey was invaluable and gave me the push I needed to believe in what I’m building. I would absolutely recommend it to any early-stage female founder ready to grow.
-Eveline van Manen, Forus-P
It was really enriching to have my Lead Entrepreneur’s input, reflections and experience with regards to how I was moving towards my goals. It was also useful to be challenged sometimes because it was not always in line with making business. I also found having several brains working on my business super valuable! All my colleagues were so insightful, encouraging and also practical when I was talking about my ideas, my challenges. It was also reassuring to be in the same room as other businesswomen who had challenges that were similar to mine and to sometimes use their experience for previous obstacles they had already encountered. ACORNS will enrich and strengthen your business mind and the way to do business!
-Farzana Maudarbaccus, Farzana Consulting
When I joined the programme six months ago, I set some big goals for Away with Nature. I wanted to outsource my accounts, improve email marketing, grow wholesale partnerships, and increase Q1 sales by 40% compared to 2024. Looking back, I’ve made incredible progress. Not only have I partnered with an accountant and worked with an email marketing company. I also secured new B2B partners and more than doubled my sales goal for Q1. ACORNS 10 has been a huge part of that journey. It helped me stay focused, feel accountable, and connect with other women who truly understand the ups and downs of building a business. I would highly recommend applying for the next round of ACORNS.
– Fiona O’Donohoe, Away with Nature
Starting a business can feel isolating, but ACORNS changed that for me. It gave me the structure, support, and community I didn’t even realise I was missing. I’m especially grateful to my Lead Entrepreneur, whose experience, financial knowledge, and honest advice made a huge impact. ACORNS created a space where every question was welcomed, every challenge was understood, and every win was celebrated. A huge thank you to Paula Fitzsimons and her team for creating such a powerful and supportive programme that truly understands what early-stage entrepreneurs need. Through ACORNS, I built a strong network of women who genuinely understand the entrepreneurial journey. Thanks to the programme, I’m leaving with a clearer vision for my business, more confidence in my decisions, and a network of incredible friends and fellow entrepreneurs who continue to inspire me.
-Genevieve Fitzgerald, Stately Members Club
ACORNS has been one of the best things to happen to me as a startup business! The connections, the support, and the atmosphere when we were together—it was incredible. When we are together, we can achieve anything!
-Ixis Santos, Forest Mist Skincare
Being a part of ACORNS has established a really professional focus and strategic approach for my business whilst at early stages. I’m confident I can navigate my business through the danger zone of early years with strong supports in place. It’s been hugely valuable for me, and I am well aware that the value of this community has only just begun.
-Jane Gormley, CRAICLY Stories
When I first began the ACORNS programme, I was told by another participant how much she got out of it and how it helped her business. I could not believe how much I got and more and would recommend any woman entrepreneur to apply for this. Thank you Paula, Orla, Clodagh and Mary.
-Karen Curtin, The Spectacles Chick
When I joined ACORNS 10, I was considering growth for Dúlra Cill Dara—but still weighing the risks. The programme didn’t just support that decision; it gave me the structure, confidence, and clarity I needed to move forward. It made the idea of expansion —not just in operations, but in ambition and direction— feel grounded and achievable, and gave me a real sense that I could take risks with purpose—and a reasonable chance of success. The programme provided a structured, supportive space to navigate that. What stood out most was the sense of not being alone in the journey. The shared experiences and honest conversations with other rural female entrepreneurs helped normalise challenges and made space for clearer thinking. Our Lead Entrepreneur brought thoughtful questions, practical advice, and a sense of calm focus to every session. The roundtable format created real accountability and momentum. Knowing I’d be reporting back each month pushed me to tackle things I might otherwise have avoided – and also pushed me to spotlight successes and wins (big and small!) that might otherwise have gone unnoticed and uncelebrated. ACORNS gave me the time and tools to step back and work ON the business instead of constantly IN it. It gave me perspective, encouragement, and clarity. I’m honoured to have been part of it!
–Kate Maher, Dúlra Cill Dara
Through this initiative my business has grown, I’ve become part of a strong, inspiring network of like-minded female entrepreneurs—a thriving community of peers and friends who are passionate about empowering women in rural Ireland to succeed in business.
-Kate O’Callaghan-Momberg, Ireland Exclusive
ACORNS has been an inspirational programme. I had no idea what I was signing up to really when I filled out the application form but seeing how this programme supports rural female entrepreneurs, it is an invaluable resource to have to hand. I’ve learned so much over the last couple of years re building a business and the last 6 months has been a real eye opener in terms of the frustrations and challenges that I faced are often what most businesses face at some point. Feeling seen and validated has really helped in feeling confident in my business.
-Kiara Murtagh, Hawthorn & Willow
I found ACORNS to be a very special programme. The energy and inspiration I got from talking, listening and working with our group of amazing female entrepreneurs and seeing the progress everyone has made over the six months is unbelievable. The roundtable sessions offered encouragement, accountability, advice and camaraderie. Our Lead Entrepreneur shared her time, expertise and support and this has been invaluable in giving me confidence to grow and thrive. I highly recommend any female entrepreneur starting out in business to apply for this amazing opportunity.
-Laura Powell, Beechfield Holistic
When I first heard about ACORNS, I wasn’t sure if it was right for me. I was in the very early stages of starting my business and felt nervous that I wouldn’t be as far along as the others. But I’m so glad I applied. What I found was so much more than just monthly roundtable meetings. You are welcomed into a powerful tribe of like-minded women who are all on their own entrepreneurial journeys, and suddenly the process doesn’t feel so daunting or lonely. That sense of being surrounded by women who genuinely want you to succeed, who lift you up, share their experience, and offer encouragement, makes all the difference. It is led by women who have walked the path before you, who share their wisdom with generosity and honesty. ACORNS gave me the space to be real, the courage to keep going, and the accountability I needed to make real progress. It is a community that reminds you, you’re not alone, and in that connection, you find strength, clarity, momentum and true friendship.
-Louise Lennox, Fussy Eating Kids
The benefit of ACORNS to a small business may seem unquantifiable initially. But the gentle teasing out of what the core of your business is, and where you want to be, is a subtle but powerful tool, that you gain after the 6 months. ACORNS is not about marketing strategies that you can read about in a book, it is practical support from people who understand the pitfalls and challenges any small business faces. I feel very lucky, to have been given the opportunity to complete this programme, and to have met the people that I have. Thank you.
-Martha McCabe, Goose Loves
Being part of the ACORNS program, with Larissa Feeney as our Lead Entrepreneur, was a fantastic experience for me and my business. The sessions were full of useful advice and gave me the chance to meet other entrepreneurs who understand the ups and downs of running a business. It was great to share ideas, learn from others, and feel supported. I’m so thankful for everything I gained from being part of ACORNS.
– Mary Doherty, MD Serendipity Designs
Attending the ACORNS Programme was a really great experience for me as a new entrepreneur. The monthly roundtables were invaluable—providing a safe space to ask questions, gain honest feedback, and learn from the experiences of my peers. The group has become more than just a support network; they’re now trusted friends and sounding boards. Each month, we were guided through new topics that helped me gain deeper insights into my business and stay focused on clear goals and milestones. I’m incredibly grateful for the growth and connections I gained through this journey.
-Natasha Fox, Evolution Pilates
I feel very lucky to have been granted a place in ACORNS. My experience in ACORNS working with a diverse range of entrepreneurs has allowed me to structure both short and long term realistic and achievable goals to continue to scale my business. During my time in ACORNS, I have launched an online booking system which in turn increased bookings and launched four online Pilates programmes increasing access to women and creating financial security. Long term, my peers from around our round table discussions have inspired me to keep dreaming and believing to work towards my vision for Pelvic Health West and women’s health in the future. Thank you Triona and ACORNS 10 for making me feel lighter after each get together.
-Orlaith Kilgannon, Pelvic Health West
ACORNS is an incredible programme that brings together like-minded women in a truly motivating and supportive environment. It’s where you find your tribe of rural female entrepreneurs who are boldly making their mark on Ireland and beyond. While our challenges can differ from those in urban areas, having a group of women who truly understand what you’re going through makes all the difference.
-Rebecca Hoban, Outwest Clothing
Participating in the ACORNS programme has been a transformative experience for me. The support, honest conversations and insights from experienced entrepreneurs have been invaluable in helping me navigate the challenges of accelerating my business model and ambition. The interactive round table sessions foster a sense of community, collaboration and psychological safety that is truly inspiring. I’ve connected with many amazing business owners, made friends and now have a superb network of inspiring women who are each making a positive impact in their communities and beyond. Thanks to ACORNS, I feel more energised, determined and equipped to grow my business successfully.
-Rebecca Molloy, TrustWorki
The impact of being able to sit down at a roundtable once a month and be given the opportunity to speak openly about my struggles and fears, as well as my goals and aspirations in starting and running my business is difficult to put into words. It has been incredible. I started the programme with very specific goals I hoped to achieve, and through the support and mentorship of my Lead Entrepreneur and the other women at the table, I teased out where I want my business to go in the future. In the end it has hugely clarified my mission with Oysome, which is to show the world just how amazing Irish oysters really are – teaching people how to shuck, handle, and savour them, so that every Irish oyster experience becomes a celebration.
-Sarah Browne, Oysome
ACORNS 10 has been a truly wonderful experience for both me and my business, Maia Purposeful Play. When I started the programme, I was spending a lot of my time running classes for children. This was something that, while I enjoyed and knew it was benefiting so many families, no longer aligned with my long-term goals. Thanks to the support, encouragement, and structure of ACORNS, I now feel confident shifting my focus towards what I am truly passionate about: developing and delivering training workshops for early years educators. This change would not have been possible without Larissa Feeney, our amazing Lead Entrepreneur, and the powerful conversations with fellow entrepreneurs during our round table meetings. What makes ACORNS so unique is the incredible community of women. From day one, it was a safe, supportive space where you could walk up to anyone in the room and start a conversation. At the round tables, we could celebrate our wins but also be honest and vulnerable about our challenges. The honesty, wisdom, and energy in the room, especially at the final meeting in Mullingar was inspiring and something I wish I could have bottled up. I came into ACORNS with imposter syndrome and left with a renewed belief in myself, my values, and my vision. I will always be grateful to Paula Fitzsimons and her brilliant team, and to the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine for making this journey possible. I would highly recommend ACORNS to any female entrepreneur. I know, just like me, they will benefit from it both personally and professionally in ways they could never have imagined.
– Shannan Mulrooney, Maia Purposeful Play
Being part of the ACORNS programme has been truly transformative for both my personal growth and my business. One of the most valuable aspects has been the opportunity to connect with like-minded women in business. The supportive community empowered me to set and achieve goals, with some already checked off and others still in progress. Seeing the progress of others was motivating, and it helped me realize that with belief and confidence, anything is possible. The Lead Entrepreneur brought incredible clarity to my business and helped shift my mindset from working in my business to working on it. She also introduced the importance of KPIs, which has been essential in measuring what’s working and keeping my business on track. I would absolutely recommend ACORNS to anyone looking to grow their business. The mentorship, support, and insights have been invaluable. It’s a fantastic space to learn, grow, and connect with others based in rural Ireland who truly understand the entrepreneurial journey.
-Shelly Rourke, Shellys
ACORNS provided me with much needed peer support. As a solo entrepreneur it can get lonely being the only decision maker and ACORNS provided me with a ready made support group who offered invaluable advice on my business. Having people who are not directly involved in the business helps to get a different angle on where you could be going wrong, where improvements can be made and of course what you are doing right. It also helped me move from ‘this is just a hobby’ business to ‘this is an actual business’ business. I would highly recommend anyone starting out in business to apply for ACORNS.
-Tara Mestre, Wild Atlantic Wellness
ACORNS is such a wonderful community of rural female entrepreneurs – rallying with you to guide and support your business growth. I can’t recommend the programme enough for anyone looking to grow their business and their network!
-Zoe O Connell, Zoe O Connell Consulting