Cavan’s Next Entrepreneurs Take Centre Stage at CCLD’s High-Impact Business Seminar

On June 23rd, the Cavan Crystal Hotel became a launchpad for ambition, as Cavan County Local Development (CCLD) welcomed a full room of aspiring entrepreneurs to a dynamic information and networking seminar designed to turn ideas into enterprise.

Great attendance by aspiring entrepreneurs from the Ukrainian community in Cavan.

From the outset, the energy in the room signalled something significant: individuals from across County Cavan—many currently out of work or in part-time employment—gathered with a shared goal of building sustainable futures through entrepreneurship. What followed was a focused, practical, and highly engaging session that delivered exactly what early-stage entrepreneurs need most: clarity, confidence, and connection.

A Practical Roadmap to Entrepreneurship

The afternoon session was carefully structured to remove the uncertainty often associated with starting a business. By bringing together local expertise and frontline experience, CCLD ensured attendees received actionable guidance grounded in real-world supports.

Participants benefited from direct access to a panel of respected professionals who addressed the key pillars of enterprise development:

• Local Enterprise Support

  Elaine McGrath, Enterprise Officer with CCLD, outlined the tailored supports available under SICAP. These include targeted training programmes, one-to-one mentoring, and access to grant aid—critical tools that help transform early ideas into viable businesses.

• State Assistance Navigation

  Steven McCreanor provided a clear breakdown of pathways into self-employment through schemes such as the Back to Work Enterprise Allowance (BTWEA) and Short-Term Enterprise Allowance (STEA). His contribution ensured attendees understood how to transition with financial stability and confidence.

• Financial & Fiscal Strategy

  Ciaran Brady of Xeinadin Accountancy Services simplified the complexities of startup finance, covering company setup, tax compliance, and best practices in bookkeeping—key areas that often present barriers to first-time entrepreneurs.

• Rights & Benefits Advisory

  Representatives from Citizen Information Cavan supported attendees in understanding the implications of moving from welfare or part-time employment into full-time business ownership, ensuring informed and secure decision-making.

Delivering Measurable Impact for County Cavan

For funders and state stakeholders, this seminar represents more than an event—it is a tangible demonstration of programme delivery under the Social Inclusion and Community Activation Programme (SICAP). It aligns closely with national and European policy objectives around employment activation, enterprise stimulation, and inclusive economic growth.

By equipping individuals with the knowledge and supports needed to start businesses, CCLD is actively contributing to:

• Increased labour market participation

• Strengthened local enterprise ecosystems

• Reduced barriers to self-employment

• Enhanced community resilience and sustainability

This initiative, delivered in partnership with the Cavan Local Community Development Committee (LCDC), continues to evidence strong outcomes in supporting marginalised groups to engage in economic activity.

A Story That Matters to Communities and Media

For the wider public and media, the message is clear: entrepreneurship in Cavan is thriving—and it is inclusive.

Behind every attendee lies a personal story of determination, whether it’s a part-time worker seeking independence or someone re-entering the workforce after a period of unemployment. These are the human stories driving local economic regeneration, and they highlight the critical role of community-led development.

Missed the Event? The Opportunity Continues

If you were unable to attend, support is still readily available. CCLD continues to provide structured guidance, expert advice, and access to resources for anyone ready to take the next step.

To begin your journey, contact:

📧 Elaine McGrath – emcgrath@ccld.ie

Your business idea deserves the chance to grow—and CCLD is here to help make it happen.

“The Social Inclusion and Community Activation Programme (SICAP) is co-funded by the Irish Government, through the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, and the European Social Fund Plus under the Employment, Inclusion, Skills and Training (EIST) Programme 2021 - 2027.”

“Tá an Clár um Chuimsiú Sóisialta agus Gníomhachtú Pobail (SICAP) cómhaoinithe ag Rialtas na hÉireann, tríd an Roinn Forbartha Tuaithe agus Pobail agus Gaeltachta, agus Ciste Sóisialta na hEorpa Plus faoin gClár Fostaíochta,"