Are Irish small business owners ready to embrace digital transformation?

It’s time to Future-Proof Your Business

Perhaps you want to go paperless in 2025? Or eliminate paperwork and reduce time spent on administrative tasks? Or simply integrate Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems?

Join us for an insightful and practical workshop on embracing digital transformation to drive efficiency and growth in your business.

🔹 Keynote Speaker: John Shanahan –  During this keynote, I will provide insights into how digitisation can streamline operations, improve productivity, and enhance competitiveness.
🔹 LEO Digital Supports – Learn from LEO staff about the range of digital supports available, including how to access a €5,000 grant to support your digital journey.

Whether you’re just starting your digital transformation or looking to optimise your existing systems, this workshop will provide the guidance, funding opportunities, and expert advice you need to take the next step.

Secure your spot here

The pace of digital adoption is accelerating—how can your business keep up and thrive? Join us for this in-person event where we’ll explore how small businesses are successfully adopting digital tools to streamline operations, enhance customer experiences, and drive growth. We’ll share real-world use cases of best-in-class digital adoption and show you how supports like the Digital for Business and Grow Digital programmes can help you on your journey. Whether you’re just starting or looking to advance, discover practical strategies and available funding to make digital work for your business. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn, connect, and take the next step towards a smarter, more efficient future!

Location: Portlaoise Enterprise Centre, Clonminham

Book your place here

As part of Local Enterprise Week 2025, join us in Mitchlstown for a dynamic event in collaboration with Ballyhoura CLG, designed to equip small businesses with the tools, insights and funding opportunities needed to thrive in the digital age.

What to expect:

• Keynote speaker: John O Shanahan, LEAN BPI: Explore the power of digital transformation and learn about the Digital For Business and Grow Digital Grant
• Lisa Finn, Business Advisor LEO:Gain insights into the range of supports and schemes available through the LEO
• Ballyhoura CLG: Discover funding and business supports tailored for SME’s

Location: Firgrove Hotel, Mitchelstown

Book your place here

During this webinar, I will deep dive into how small businesses can harness Lean principles, digital innovations, and AI-driven solutions to optimise operations and drive sustainable growth.

3 Takeaways for Business Owners

• Actionable Strategies: Learn specific Lean and AI-based methods to streamline operations and reduce costs.
• Proven Case Study Insights: Understand how one business successfully implemented these techniques, and what you can replicate.
• Roadmap to Future-Proofing: Gain practical steps to integrate digital and AI solutions that will keep your company competitive in a rapidly evolving marketplace.

You can book your slot here.

Join us for a hugely informative morning which will provide you with the guidance you need to transform your business digitally. This event is not to be missed if you are at any stage of your digital journey.

9.00 am – 9.30 am
Networking

9.30 am – 10.30 am

John O’Shanahan, Senior Business Consultant
With over a decade of experience in digitalisation to guide you through the Local Enterprise Office supports, emerging technologies and every stage of your digital journey. From basic tools to automation and AI John will equip you with the information to assist you with the digital transformation of your business

10.30 am – 11.30 am

Michael Keogh, of the Entrepreneurs Academy
Michael will equip you with the knowledge and skills to empower, innovate and transform the future of your business by giving practical Artificial Intelligence (AI) information and advice to build on your success in your digital transformation. AI the right way. He will discuss the positive affect AI can have on your business and remove the fear that often surrounds its very mention. This is a really practical way to provide you with the information you need to work smarter not harder.

11.30 am – 12.00 pm
Q&A

Location: Knightsbrook Hotel, Trim

Book your spot here

Adopting digital tools isn’t just about keeping up—it’s about unlocking efficiency, improving customer engagement, and driving sustainable growth. In this session, I’ll share real-world examples of businesses that have embraced digitalisation to solve everyday challenges.

Learn how to identify the right technology for your business, access LEO supports, and implement change effectively, gaining actionable insights to future-proof your business in an increasingly digital world.

Date: Monday 3rd March

Time: 10am to 1pm

Venue: Cavan Digital Hub

Book your place here now. 

As digital transformation accelerates, small businesses that don’t adapt risk falling behind. As professional bookkeepers, you play a crucial role in guiding your clients through business decisions—including how they can leverage digital tools to improve efficiency, streamline financial processes, and future-proof their operations.

This session will explore the key digital adoption supports available to small businesses, including Digital for Business and Grow Digital, and how bookkeepers can help their clients access funding, implement the right solutions, and maximize the benefits of digitalisation. Through real-world case studies, we’ll highlight how small businesses are successfully adopting digital tools and discuss how bookkeepers can support them in making informed, strategic choices.

Join us to gain valuable insights into the digital landscape, practical guidance on funding and implementation, and actionable strategies to help your clients thrive in an increasingly digital world.

Book your spot here. 

In this session, I will share practical insights and lessons from micro-businesses that have successfully integrated digital solutions into their operational workflows, bridging the gap between traditional practices and modern efficiency.

Key takeaways from this session:

• Learn how your personal readiness can affect your approach to digital adoption in the business

• Learn how businesses at different stages of their digital journey – from getting started to advanced integration – have successfully adopted digital tools to streamline operations and improve efficiency
• Discover how the range of available support, including the Digital for Business programme and Grow Digital voucher, can help you adopt digital solutions

Register here

In this Lunch and Learn, I will delve into the strategic approaches that small businesses can adopt to successfully implement digital systems.

By understanding the unique factors that influence the adoption process, you’ll learn how to tailor digital solutions to meet your specific business needs. I will also showcase real-world examples of small businesses that have effectively integrated digital tools, providing practical insights and inspiration for your digital journey.

Key takeaways from this session:

• Understand the importance of tailoring digital adoption strategies to fit the specific needs and circumstances of your small business
• Explore the critical factors that determine the best approach for digital system integration, including business size, industry and digital readiness
• Gain valuable insights from case studies of small businesses that have successfully implemented digital tools, learning from their challenges and successes

More about the event here.

Join Enterprise Nation and its partners for the launch of its pioneering Tech Hub. Backed by top technology firms, Tech Hub is a new-generation, one-stop-shop solution that allows businesses to access industry-leading digital tools, training, support and know-how to succeed, all in one place.

Unlock the potential of your leadership journey with the Future Focus Management Development Series. Join Carlow & Kilkenny Local Enterprise Offices for a series of dynamic sessions curated to empower your leadership skills, strategic thinking, and business acumen. Future Focus provides Owner Managers with a supportive programme environment which is designed to assist in the acceleration and development of their companies.

Session 4: Productivity & Scaling with John O Shanahan

🕒 Time: 8:00 am – 10:00 am

Location: Enterprise House, O Brien Road, Carlow

During this session, I will guide you how to unlock the secrets to maximising productivity and scaling your operations. We’ll also explore strategies for optimising processes, leveraging technology for efficiency, and fostering a culture of innovation.

Join us for an insightful and interactive morning focused on digitalisation in small businesses, hosted by Local Enterprise North and West Cork. In this workshop, we’ll delve into the drivers, challenges, and key factors influencing the adoption of digital solutions for small businesses. You’ll gain valuable insights into assessing your business’s digital maturity and readiness, along with practical tips on how to improve your digital capabilities and thrive in today’s digital landscape.

Key Takeaways:

• Enhance Efficiency: Learn how digital tools can make your business more efficient and easier to manage.
• Success Stories: Explore real-life examples of businesses that have thrived using digital supports from LEO.
• Overcoming Challenges: Get practical advice on tackling the hurdles of adopting new digital strategies.

Book your place here.

This one-stop shop focuses on accelerating digitalisation and data-driven innovation for you and your business. You’ll have the chance to hear from industry leaders, innovation experts, and peers about how digital technologies can drive business growth and enhance your innovation strategies.

Learn more about the 100% Discounted EDIH Services available, up to a value of €100,000.

Key focus areas will include engineering services, operational effectiveness, cyber resilience, sustainability, and the transformative potential of automation, artificial intelligence, and data analytics.

📍 Venue: Advancing Innovation in Manufacturing (AIM) Centre, Sligo
📅 Date: October 10th
⏰ Time: 9:00 – 13:00 (with optional 1-1 company meets 13:30-16:00)

The event is open to early-stage companies, Small & Medium Sized Enterprises, Larger Companies, Public Sector Agencies and Not-for-Profit Organisations.
The event is free of charge and is co-financed by Enterprise Europe Network

Learn more about this event here

📢 The .ie Digital Champions event is just around the corner! Join us on Tuesday, 8 October, 2024, at the Sheraton Athlone for an opportunity to learn about funding and supports driving digital innovation in your community.

This event is perfect for local digital projects and businesses looking to enhance their digital expertise and network with leaders from across the country. We’ll hear from organisations such as:
▪ Western Development Commission
▪ Skillnet Ireland
▪ Local Enterprise Offices
▪ Enterprise Nation Ireland
▪ Connected Hubs
▪ RDI Hub

💡 Some come along on Tuesday 8 October, you’ll walk away with fresh ideas on how digital initiatives can impact your business or community.

Register here: https://lnkd.in/eg254uEx

Join us for an insightful webinar designed specifically for SME owners and managers looking to successfully engage with digital transformation. This event will delve into real-life case vignettes of SMEs that have embarked on digitalisation journeys, providing practical insights and lessons learned. We will explore the critical role that people and culture play in the digitalisation process, contextualised by leading research in the field.

Key Takeaways:

• Understand the pivotal role of people and culture in driving digital transformation.
• Learn from case studies of SMEs that have successfully navigated their digitalisation journey.
• Gain actionable insights on how to align your organisation’s vision with the digital era.

Chair: Dr Lorraine Morgan, Associate Professor in Business Information Systems University of Galway

Speakers:

·         Dr Noel Carroll, Assistant Professor in Business Information Systems, University of Galway

·         John O’ Shanahan, Founder and Lead Consultant, LeanBPI (digital innovation for small businesses)

Register here

In this Lunch and Learn session, I will share different digitalisation strategies tailored for small businesses. I will explore how integrating digital tools can enhance efficiency, drive growth and streamline operations to ensure long-term success in today’s competitive landscape.

Key takeaways from this session:

• Understand the fundamental role of digitalisation in driving small business growth and efficiency
• Explore practical applications of digital tools and technologies, tailored to meet the unique needs of small enterprises
• Learn actionable strategies for implementing and optimising digital initiatives, ensuring your business remains competitive and resilient in a digital-first economy

Click here for more details

I am delighted to announce that I will be one of the speakers at the #DarganForum 2024, to share insights on harnessing technology for the Green & Digital Transition.

Join us in Dún Laoghaire on 4th July.

RSVP Here: https://bit.ly/4aYJ2ty

Join us for an informative webinar which will focus on enhancing small businesses through digital innovation. I will share valuable insights on the impact of digital technologies in optimising small business operations.

This webinar will guide small business owners through the digital transformation process, highlighting the significance of digital integration at various stages. You will benefit from real-world case studies, illustrating the successful adoption of digital tools, automation, and custom software to improve efficiency, minimise errors, and drive sustainable growth.

Featured Business Leaders:

Audit Associates Pharmaceutical Ltd : Donal Anthony
My Life Insurance : Barry O’Connor

Key Takeaways:

• Obtain actionable insights from case studies to kickstart or advance your digital transformation journey.
• Learn how to leverage digital technology effectively to achieve significant benefits, focusing on cost-effective and efficient solutions for small businesses.
• Understand the importance of embracing digital technology to maintain a competitive advantage in the small business sector.

Join us for an engaging and informative experience, providing you with invaluable insights and practical strategies to enhance your business efficiency.

Why Attend?

• LEAN Efficiency: Discover how LEAN principles can streamline your operations, boost productivity, and make your business more agile. We’ll explore integration-capable and variable processes that drive success.
• GREEN Sustainability: Learn about resource-optimised and circular production methods. By adopting sustainable practices, you’ll not only reduce your environmental impact but also enhance your bottom line through cost savings.
• DIGITAL Innovation: Understand how others are using Digital technologies to streamline business operations, enhance customer engagement, and improve decision-making while driving efficiency to maintain a competitive edge in today’s market.

What’s in It for You?

• Cost Savings: Implementing digital solutions, energy-efficient measures and waste reduction strategies can lead to significant long-term savings.
• Access to New Markets: Sustainability is a priority for consumers and businesses alike. Position yourself to tap into new markets and forge valuable partnerships.This event is brought to you by LEO Offaly. Join us to gain valuable insights, network with fellow entrepreneurs, and position your business for sustainable success.Book your place here

Join us for an informative webinar detailing the digital transformation journey for small businesses.

In this session, we’ll explore the synergy between your individual readiness for technology and the successful adoption of digital solutions in your business operations. Learn about the integration of entry-level projects like cloud-based applications, optimization efforts using Google and Microsoft tools, and advanced initiatives using robotics process automation. This session will introduce you to essential digital tools and also illustrate how these technologies can streamline your business processes, enhance efficiency, and give you a competitive edge in the small business domain.

Key Takeaways:

• Discover the critical role of personal technology readiness in shaping the digital transformation path of your small business, and how to leverage it for success.
• Gain insights into a spectrum of digital projects – from basic to advanced – including practical applications of robotic process automation and optimisation strategies to enhance your operational efficiency.
• Learn from other small businesses that have successfully integrated digital tools, such as Google and Microsoft technologies, to optimise their operations and achieve significant error reduction and efficiency.

Book your place here 

This webinar aims to explain the digital transformation journey for small enterprises at all stages of digital integration. Through real-life examples, learn how businesses have effectively implemented digital tools, automation, and bespoke software to boost efficiency, reduce mistakes, and promote sustainable growth.

Listen to the genuine stories from small business owners who have experienced the benefits of digitalization in their day-to-day operations. Regardless of your current stage in the digital journey, this session will provide crucial insights.

Featured Business Leaders:

• Mary Murray – Founder, JR Games
• Sue Adams : Founder, Education for Sustainability

Key Takeaways:

• Gain practical insights from real-world case studies to begin or enhance your digital transformation.
• Discover how to optimise digital technology for substantial gains, identifying affordable and effective solutions for small businesses.
• Understand the critical role of digital adoption in securing a competitive edge for your small business.

Book here 

Join us for this online webinar to learn how digital tools can help to maximise your business.

Hear about companies like yours who have made great advances and driven efficiencies by embracing digital and see examples of small businesses who have leveraged digital tools to transform their business.

Book here

This event is designed to provide clarity and direction for small businesses at various stages of their digital adoption. Through case studies, discover how various enterprises have successfully integrated digital systems, automation, and tailored software solutions to improve efficiency, minimise errors, and focus on overall business growth.

Engage with stories from small business owners who have seen firsthand the transformative impact of digitalisation in their everyday operations. Whether you’re just starting or looking to refine your approach to digital in Operations, this webinar offers valuable insights for all.

Key Takeaways from this session:

• Obtain practical, actionable insights from real-world examples to kickstart or advance your digital journey
• Explore how to leverage digital tools for maximum benefit, uncovering cost-effective and small business-friendly approaches.
• Learn the significance of digital adoption in gaining a competitive advantage for your small business.

Book your spot here

During this event, I will provide small businesses, irrespective of their current digital adoption stage, with clarity and a roadmap for leveraging digital tools. Through real-world case studies, you’ll gain insights into how various enterprises have successfully integrated digital systems, automation, and customised software solutions to streamline operations, reduce errors, and drive overall business growth.

Key Takeaways from this session:

• Gain practical and actionable insights from real-world examples to kickstart or advance your digital transformation journey.
• Explore strategies for maximising the benefits of digital tools while discovering cost-effective approaches that are tailored to small businesses.
• Understand the competitive advantage that digital adoption can provide for your small business.

Book your place here

I’m excited to kick off local Enterprise week by participating in the forthcoming ‘AI – The Way Forward’ event.  This seminar will provide invaluable insights into the transformative power of Artificial Intelligence. I’m looking forward to the opportunity to engage with and learn from our keynote speaker, AI expert Anne-Marie Tomchak, as well as my fellow panellists.

The session will be moderated by RTE’s Carole Coleman and is scheduled to take place at the Backstage Theatre, Longford, on Monday, 4th March, from 12:30 to 2:30 pm. This event, organised by the Longford Local Enterprise Office in partnership with the Longford Chamber, is an essential forum for anyone keen to leverage AI for a competitive edge in their business. I encourage you to join us for what promises to be an enlightening discussion. Registration is now open at https://lnkd.in/eufHeihR. Don’t miss out on this pivotal opportunity to explore the future of business innovation with us.

Looking forward to this speaking at this Lean & Productivity event in February at the Newpark Hotel in Kilkenny, MC’d by Áine Kerr and joined by expert speakers Richie Dawson, Pat Lynch, Stuart Nelson and Robert Hernan. This event aims to provide you with invaluable insights and practical strategies to leverage the power of LEAN Thinking to enhance your business efficiency.

For more details and the full agenda, click here.

Join this webinar where I will be illustrating how integrating digital tools can boost your tech readiness, streamline operations and elevate your business.

Key takeaways from this session:

• Uncover how your approach to technology can impact your business’s digital transformation journey
• Understand how embracing digital technology not only streamlines your operations but also places you ahead in the competitive small business landscape
• Get insights into how other small businesses have leveraged digital tools to boost efficiency and reduce errors.

Book your place here 

Learn and understand how these small businesses have used Digital systems, automation, and optimisation of off the shelf software packages to save time, reduce errors, and improve their bottom line.

Hear from:

Mary Murray – Founder JR Games, JR Games

Catherine Crowley – Business Development & Process Manager, Abbeywood Furniture, https://www.abbeywoodfurniture.com/

Key Takeaways

• Learn from small business how they are using digital tools to transform their business
• Understand the benefits of digitalisation – buy back your valuable time
• Reduce your teams time and effort on daily repetitive tasks
• Understand how embracing digitalisation can give you a competitive edge
• How the Local Enterprise Office can support your digitalisation journey

Book your spot here

During this sesssion, I will dive into the incredible potential of digitalisation, including the use of digital forms, automation, data analytics, and the optimisation of off-the-shelf SAAS packages. These technologies can save precious time, minimise errors and empower micro-businesses to direct their focus toward enhancing their overall business performance.

Key takeaways from this session:

• Gain actionable insights from real-world case studies and practical experiences, enabling you to kickstart or enhance your own digitalisation journey
• Learn how to maximise the benefits of digitalisation without breaking the bank and discover cost-effective solutions suitable for small businesses.
• Understand how embracing digitalisation can give your small business a competitive edge

Book your spot here 

Digital for Business is a pilot initiative from the Local Enterprise Office designed to give Local Enterprise Office funded clients that digital edge – from optimising processes to delivering a seamless digital customer experience, the aim is to help businesses prepare and implement a plan for the adoption of digital tools and techniques across the business. This is a holistic plan & will look at all areas of the business that would benefit from digitalisation, from the manufacturing floor to office administration, to personnel management & beyond.

I will be providing an information session to learn how the programme can help you develop a unique digital strategy that transforms businesses by identifying where you are on your digital business journey, developing a digital adaptation plan based on your identified need and assisting you to implement your digital plan.