As Local Enterprise Week opens, new survey shows almost one third of adults have a business idea they want to pursue, with younger people particularly driven to start companies.
Ireland is experiencing a sharp rise in entrepreneurial intent, with nearly one in three adults saying they have an idea for a business or product they want to develop.
The finding comes from new research commissioned by the Local Enterprise Offices as they open Local Enterprise Week 2026, a nationwide programme of more than 330 events aimed at supporting small businesses and early stage founders.
“Our goal is to ensure that the right supports are in place to help people turn their ambitions into reality”
The research, carried out by Amarach among a representative sample of 1,000 adults, suggests a strong pipeline of potential entrepreneurs. Younger people appear especially motivated, with 52% of respondents under 35 saying they have a business idea. That compares with 18% among those aged 55 and above.
Where inspiration strikes
Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment Peter Burke, TD, said the results showed “the level of ambition that exists right across the country”. He added that Ireland’s track record of developing innovative companies had encouraged more people to explore entrepreneurship.
“Our goal is to ensure that the right supports are in place to help people turn their ambitions into reality. Local Enterprise Week demonstrates what that support looks like in action through expert advice, practical tools and tailored programmes,” he said at the launch.
The research also highlights where inspiration strikes. Among those with a business idea, 40% said it emerged at home. Conversations with friends or family were the spark for 15%, while a similar share cited their workplace. Ten percent said the idea came to them in bed, with others pointing to their commute, exercise or even the shower.
Each of the 31 Local Enterprise Offices will host events throughout the week covering topics such as funding, digitalisation, AI adoption, productivity and international expansion. The programme features AI training with Google and a Microsoft-led innovation event through the Student Enterprise Programme, alongside pitch competitions and business networking sessions. A series of events marking International Women’s Day will showcase leading female entrepreneurs.
Alan Dillon, TD, Minister of State for Employment, Small Business and Retail, described Local Enterprise Week as “a flagship event for the business community across the country”. He said it offered companies an opportunity to reflect on their direction and learn from entrepreneurs “who have walked the road”.
Niamh Smyth, Minister of State for Trade Promotion, Artificial Intelligence and Digital Transformation, said the week reflected the pace of technological change since 2025. “AI can have a real positive impact on businesses, and we want to ensure small businesses are able to reap its rewards,” she said. She encouraged companies to use the week to explore the digital supports available through the LEO network.
The LEO network effect
The LEO network, which operates within local authorities and is funded by the Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment through Enterprise Ireland, has played a central role in supporting small firms since 2014. Services range from funding and training to sector-specific expertise.
The network also runs initiatives such as National Women’s Enterprise Day, the Student Enterprise Programme and the Local Enterprise Village at the National Ploughing Championships.
Kieran Comerford, chair of the Local Enterprise Offices, said the new research showed that ideas were plentiful but that support remained crucial. “Turning an idea into a viable business takes more than ambition. It takes support, knowledge and the confidence to take that first step,” he said. He added that Local Enterprise Week was designed to make those supports “visible and accessible”.
Anne Lanigan, head of Local Enterprise and Regions at Enterprise Ireland, said the week gave entrepreneurs a chance to focus on the fundamentals of business growth, from digitalisation and sustainability to export readiness. “Whether you’re an early stage start-up or an established small business looking to take the next step, the Local Enterprise Office network and Enterprise Ireland are here to support you on that journey,” she said.
Shane Tiernan, chair of the CCMA Economic Development Committee and chief executive of Roscommon County Council, said LEOs played a vital role in sustaining local economies. “The enterprises we work with are central to local economic and social life, and as the business environment continues to evolve, the LEO network remains committed to providing the practical supports and guidance entrepreneurs need to adapt, grow and thrive,” he said.
Event details for Local Enterprise Week, running from 2 to 6 March, are available here.
Top image: Eniola Salami, of Joyof with Samantha Forrest, Fussy Food Plates, and Cuty Cupta, of Cozmotec at the launch of Local Enterprise Week 2026. Photo: Jason Clarke
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