Successful Entrepreneurs Give Attendees a Look Behind the Business

The Fingal Chamber hosted our annual "Behind the Business" event on Wednesday 6th of March in the Pormarnock Resort and Jameson Golf Links, featuring insightful interviews with Fingal Business Award 2023 winners Kevin Egan from How to Company, Heather Gilroy of Prints of Ireland, and Colm Foley representing 65 Hurls. These entrepreneurs shared their experiences in the Fingal area, highlighting the pivotal role of community support, authenticity, and craftsmanship in achieving business success. Their candid reflections resonated with attendees, giving insight into what it takes to start and run a profitable business in the Fingal Area.

Kevin Egan, Heather Gilroy, and Colm Foley each emphasised the importance of the supportive business ecosystem in Fingal, such as the Local Enterprise office Fingal as well as the Fingal Chamber, which have provided them with opportunities for growth and collaboration. Kevin, founder of www.howtocompany.xyz, emphasised the importance of having a supportive co-founder, navigating the "messy middle" phase of business growth when enthusiasm often wanes after 2/3 years, and leveraging customer reviews.

Heather, creator of Prints of Ireland (www.printsofireland.ie), highlighted the significance of using the Irish language in her prints, her commitment to environmental sustainability, using local products and the impact of Google Reviews on business growth.

Colm's venture, 65 Hurls (www.65hurls.com), stemmed from his passion for hurling and the absence of hurl manufacturers in Dublin. The unique company name, inspired by the 65-meter line free in hurling, sets his business apart.

After the conversation with the esteemed panel the event concluded with some free networking over tea and coffee with a selection of healthy breakfast items provided by the Portmarnock Resort and Jameson Golf Links.

As the event concluded, attendees departed with a renewed sense of inspiration and appreciation for the entrepreneurial spirit thriving within Fingal. The panelists' stories served as a testament to the resilience and innovation present in the local business community. With leaders like Egan, Gilroy, and Foley paving the way, the future of business in Fingal looks promising, with continued support from organisations like the Fingal Chamber of Commerce and Local Enterprise Office Fingal.

The event was held as part of Fingal Local Enterprise Week and provided inspiration for budding entrepreneurs and all in attendance to further achieve their business potential.