Oughterard’s enterprising businesses!

The enterprise expo which took place in Oughterard last weekend has been hailed a “resounding success” by local business leaders and public representatives.

So much so that locals were told that the Co Galway village now forms a framework for other towns across the country which want to grow in terms of business and community.

The event, which was organised by Bank of Ireland as part of their ‘Enterprise Town’ initiative – featured up to 100 local businesses, sports and arts groups and organisations and also marked the launch of the new DiscoverOughterard.com website.

Local councillor Tom Welby, part of the Discover Oughterard organising committee, said he was delighted with the event, which attracted hundreds of people over the two days.

“There was a great buzz around the place. It was a resounding success, and many people commented on how it would help them grow their business. People are even saying we should do it once per year!

“Fair play to Bank of Ireland for giving us the impetus and the support to put it all together; it was very beneficial. It was an opportunity to let people know what others are up to, to network, to promote the town, and stress the importance of community. The feedback was unbelievable.

“It shows that if you can come together, that with a bit of help and support, you can successfully showcase an area,” said Cllr Welby.

Speaking at the expo, Spiddal entrepreneur Pádraig Ó Céidigh – the former CEO of Aer Arann – stressed the importance of community in building successful towns.

He said the fact that more than 60 businesses and groups came out to exhibit at the event was “incredible” for a town the size of Oughterard. A further 30 sports clubs and groups exhibited on the Saturday.

See full coverage and photographs in this week’s Connacht Tribune.