Galway Chamber CEO wants more investment in women-led businesses

THE CEO of the Galway Chamber of Commerce is calling for women-led businesses to be given greater priority in Budget 2027.

Karen Ronan believes women-led businesses make a significant contribution to the Irish economy. However, they have continued to face barriers that limited their ability to grow.

“Budget 2027 is an opportunity to remove barriers that continue to limit business growth while unlocking the full potential of female entrepreneurship,” she explained.

“Investing in women in business is not simply an equality issue; it is an economic one. The right supports will strengthen businesses, increase workforce participation and enhance Ireland’s competitiveness.”

Karen is also the current President of Network Ireland, the country’s longest-established women-only business network. The organisation, which was founded in 1983, represents more than 1,400 members through 17 branches nationwide.

They have called on Government to recognise women-led enterprise as a key driver of productivity, resilience and sustainable economic growth. In their first national pre-Budget submission, Network Ireland has identified seven priority areas for Budget 2027.

They include reducing the cost of doing business, improving access to finance for female entrepreneurs, expanding childcare supports, investing in skills and artificial intelligence, strengthening innovation, and addressing housing and infrastructure challenges.

“Our recommendations are practical and achievable and focused on helping businesses thrive,” added Ms Ronan.

“By investing in female entrepreneurship, childcare, innovation and workforce participation, Government can deliver lasting benefits for businesses, communities and the wider economy,” she concluded.

Network Ireland’s submission is based on a survey of members which found inflation and rising operating costs remain among the biggest challenges facing businesses.

It also highlighted the growing use of artificial intelligence, with almost seven in ten members already using the technology and many expecting to increase their use of the technology in 2027.