Waterford businesswomen urged to apply for ACORNS programme

Female entrepreneurs across rural Waterford are being encouraged to apply for the latest cycle of the ACORNS business development programme before the September 18 deadline. 

The initiative supports women in the early stages of running a business and has been helping rural entrepreneurs across Ireland since 2014. 

Among those encouraging local women to apply is Cappoquin chocolatier Judit McNally, founder of Cocoa by Judit, who recently completed the programme. 

Operating from a purpose-built kitchen at her farmhouse near Cappoquin, Ms McNally has enjoyed significant success launching her handcrafted chocolate business in late 2023. 

Her products have won awards at both the Blas na hÉireann Food Awards and the Listowel Food Awards, while she also secured a supply agreement with Faithlegg Hotel. 

Reflecting on her experience with ACORNS, she said the programme helped her stay focused and accountable while providing valuable advice on areas including bookkeeping, accounting and funding opportunities. 

Previous Waterford participant Lynn Shead of Nature's Alchemy, based near Tallow, also praised the initiative. 

“ACORNS is such a wonderful initiative to help women in rural Ireland develop their businesses,” she said. “The support given by the programme, the Lead Entrepreneurs and the other ACORNS participants is so valuable.” 

Funded by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, ACORNS offers participants the opportunity to learn from experienced entrepreneurs and fellow business owners through a series of round-table sessions and workshops. 

Up to 50 places are available on the 12th cycle of the programme, which runs from October 2026 to April 2027.