Following the success of the inaugural Spring RISE event in Athlone earlier this year, RISE Midwest continued the momentum, providing a platform for women from across the Mid-West and beyond to connect with one another, hear from experienced leaders and explore opportunities to grow their businesses and ideas.
At the heart of the event was a simple but important message: progress is stronger when we work together.
The Mid-West has a long and proud tradition of innovation, enterprise and resilience. That legacy continues today through the many businesses, entrepreneurs, researchers and organisations working collectively to develop new ideas, create opportunities and strengthen the region’s economy.
Held in partnership with Tipperary Chamber; Irish MedTech; Limerick Chamber Skillnet; Shannon Chamber Skillnet; and the TUS Research, Development and Innovation Team. A key theme emerging from the event was the increasingly collaborative relationship between business and Technological University of the Shannon (TUS). Industry engagement is not simply about businesses accessing expertise or facilities; it is about creating meaningful partnerships where knowledge, experience and resources can be shared to address challenges, develop new solutions and identify opportunities for growth.
Through initiatives such as TUS RISE, TUS is continuing to strengthen these connections and build the capacity of the region’s innovation ecosystem. Businesses engaging with TUS are helping to create opportunities for research, development and innovation, while also benefiting from access to knowledge, talent, networks and expertise within the university.
For female entrepreneurs and innovators in particular, these connections can be hugely valuable. Access to networks, practical insights, funding opportunities, research expertise and potential collaborators can help turn ideas into sustainable enterprises and support businesses as they move through different stages of growth.
The event also highlighted the importance of creating spaces where women can share their experiences, celebrate achievements and learn from one another. By shining a light on female leadership across the region, TU RISE is helping to ensure that women’s voices remain central to the future of innovation and enterprise in the Midlands and Mid-West.
As the TU RISE programme continues, these partnerships will be critical. By working alongside businesses, entrepreneurs, researchers and regional stakeholders, TUS can continue to respond to real-world challenges, support innovation and create opportunities that benefit the wider region.
A sincere thank you to our speakers and contributors: Georgie Crawford, Maria Gleeson, Edel Breslin, Karen Kelly, Dr Carola Burke, Rachel Guerin, Ruth Baker, Dr Gillian Barry, Mary O’Sullivan, Katrin Weittenhiller, Emma Callinan and Dr Lisa Devery.
TUS RISE project is co-funded by the Government of Ireland and the European Union through the ERDF Southern, Eastern & Midland Regional Programme 2021–27.
