An initiative for female entrepreneurs is now open for new Laois applicants.
The ACORNS programme is a highly-successful development initiative to support early-stage female entrepreneurs living in rural Ireland.
ACORNS has been providing a decade of support for female entrepreneurship in rural Ireland and has recently launched the 10th cycle of the business development programme.
The deadline for applicants is midnight, September 20th. There are up to 50 places available for ACORNS 10. Those wishing to receive an application form should register on the website (www.acorns.ie).
A local business owner, Hollianne Phelan, has successfully completed the programme already and encourages others to join.
She is the founder of Cotone Collection, a brand of comfortable, functional and stylish sleepwear, which includes pyjamas tops, bottoms, oversized t-shirts, and dressing gowns.
Hollianne strives to limit the impact of Cotone Collection pieces on the environment. That’s why she uses all natural materials sourced in Europe.
Cotone Collection garments are produced in Portugal while packaging is made from recycled and biodegradable material sourced in Ireland.
Holianne Phelan, founder of Cotone Collection, said: “I found ACORNS 9 to be an extremely amazing experience. The support I received throughout the six-month period was outstanding.
“My group has been the needed safe space for all business pains, headaches and problems.
“Each session and round table discussion constructed an environment where we felt we were in a safe space to discuss all of our business successes, shortcomings, questions and personal struggles.
“Although from madly diverse sectors, each member always had a solution or knew of someone with the solution to every single issue our businesses encountered.
“To me, ACORNS truly stands out as a business accelerator programme. The guidance and camaraderie among fellow female entrepreneurs in the programme were invaluable.
“I feel equipped with not just knowledge but also a supportive network that I can rely on as I continue to grow my business.”
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