Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 28 April 2026
205. Deputy Colm Burke asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment to provide an update on the Programme for Government commitment to implement, fund and expand Enterprise Ireland's Action Plan for Women in Business; the progress made to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30517/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraEnterprise Ireland’s 6-year Action Plan for Women in Business was launched in 2020. The aim of the strategy is to drive Ireland’s economic success by harnessing the full talent and expertise of a diverse population and, to that end, the objectives of the strategy are to increase the number of women starting, leading and growing Irish businesses.
In August 2025 Enterprise Ireland commissioned research into the barriers to entrepreneurship facing minorities and underrepresented communities in Ireland, which highlighted where supports are working, where gaps remain, and recommended coordinated, inclusive action. This research is informing the approach to evolving the Action Plan in 2026, building on delivery to date and reflecting demographic and ecosystem shifts.
The development of an expanded Action Plan focusing on inclusive entrepreneurship is progressing, aligned with the Enterprise Ireland Strategy 2025–2029 and the Programme for Government commitment. Initial pillars identified include Inclusive, Accessible & Cohesive Support System; Capability, Progression & Leadership; Access to Funding, Finance & Scaling; and Data, Measurement & Visibility. Publication is expected in the second half of 2026.
