Going for Growth, the nationally recognised programme for ambitious female entrepreneurs, is now accepting applications for its 18th cycle. Supported by Enterprise Ireland and KPMG, this free, six-month programme is designed for women who are focused on increasing revenue, creating employment, and exploring new market opportunities.
The application window is open from October 13th until November 21st, with 60 places available for the cycle beginning in January. The programme centres on monthly, peer-led roundtable discussions facilitated by a team of highly successful Lead Entrepreneurs. Notably, nine of the eleven Lead Entrepreneurs for the upcoming cycle are alumnae of the programme themselves, embodying its powerful spirit of pay-it-forward support.
The proven impact of Going for Growth is underscored by results from its most recent cycle, where 83 participants across Going for Growth and its sister programme, Starting Strong, saw their combined turnover increase by €17 million to €81 million. These businesses also created 68 new jobs and saw four companies begin exporting.
The programme has been lauded by the EU and OECD for fostering ambition among female entrepreneurs, an endorsement reflected in participant feedback. In a recent survey, 100% of participants said they would recommend the programme, and 98% reported that it brought about practical, positive change within their business.
The support continues beyond the initial six months, with alumni joining a lasting community and having the opportunity to apply for the ‘Continuing the Momentum’ programme to sustain their growth journey.
Female entrepreneurs from all sectors are encouraged to apply before the November 21st deadline. To request an application form, visit www.GoingforGrowth.com.
Jenny Melia, CEO, Enterprise Ireland, said: “Enterprise Ireland is committed to increasing opportunities for women entrepreneurs and supporting them at every stage of their business journey. This includes working with colleagues and partners from across the ecosystem, to ensure we foster the skills, ambition and talent, and ensure that Ireland is a great location to start and scale a business. That is why Enterprise Ireland is proud to continue our support for Going for Growth, a programme which supports women entrepreneurs to scale their businesses and realise their growth ambitions.
"Over the past 17 cycles, this initiative has demonstrated its impact in helping women-led businesses to increase revenue, create employment, and expand into new markets, and I would encourage all eligible entrepreneurs to apply and to engage with the peer support, expert guidance, and leadership offered through this unique programme.”
Partner at KPMG, Olivia Lynch, said: “KPMG is committed to championing female entrepreneurship in Ireland, especially in the face of the unique challenges of 2025, including economic uncertainty, evolving market demands, and the need for sustainable practices. Through our unwavering support of Going for Growth, this programme plays a crucial role in empowering ambitious women by providing them with essential resources, mentorship, and a robust community.”
“We proudly celebrate female role models in sports and are equally passionate about fostering women's success in business. With the invaluable guidance from Lead Entrepreneurs, tailored KPMG workshops, and a strong network of peers, participants gain critical insights and the support necessary to navigate these challenges. Together, cultivating a vibrant future for women in entrepreneurship throughout Ireland.”
National Director of Going for Growth, Paula Fitzsimons, said: “We’re delighted to launch the latest cycle of Going for Growth. Over the years, the programme has delivered fantastic results in terms of revenue, employment, and growth into new markets for more than 1,000 female business owners. The end of cycle survey shows how positively the programme is received by its latest participants and the impact that it has had on them personally and on their businesses. I would encourage all ambitious female entrepreneurs and owner/managers looking to increase revenue, create employment, and explore new market opportunities to submit their applications for the 18th cycle of Going for Growth before the deadline of Friday, November 21.”
Past participant Sinead Timoney of Fehily Timoney & Co, which is headquartered in Cork, has just completed the 17th cycle of Going for Growth. She said: “The civil engineering industry is traditionally male dominated, and it is easy to be influenced by the majority. Going for Growth provides the platform for female leaders to discuss key operational areas of their businesses in an open and confidential setting to enable all to learn and for companies to thrive. What I loved about the programme was that it took me out of my comfort zone and surrounded me with the most inspirational and confident women. They taught me that as women leaders we are exceptional. We are resilient, we have the skills, and we are not alone and that every day we are breaking boundaries to no longer be the minority.”
Past participant Gráinne Mullins of Grá Chocolates, which is based in Galway, has just completed the Continuing the Momentum programme. She said: “Going for Growth was such an incredible experience. I connected with women in a similar position to me and we could be open and vulnerable to each other about the struggles of having our own businesses. I learned so much over the few months and having peers that understood and could advise you really helped to keep me on track. I am so thankful for having been chosen for the Going for Growth Programme in the first instance and continuing the participation in Continuing the Momentum on this cycle. It has made all the difference!”
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