Climate Change brings many significant challenges across the environment, society, economy and technological dimensions. This conference will explore how enterprise, tourism and communities across the Midlands, in addressing and responding to climate change, are realising unique business opportunities, diversifying and strengthening both the local and regional economy. It will provide insight into available supports, case studies and will provide important lessons for enterprise, tourism, communities and local authorities alike, to create new projects, employment opportunities in taking positive and effective climate action. These valuable learnings can provide inspiration and an opportunity to replicate in other areas.

This conference is supported by the Midlands Regional Enterprise Plan Pathway for Transition, which is co-funded by the Irish government and the EU Just Transition Fund, 2021-2027 and Regenerative Tourism and Placemaking Scheme for Ireland’s Midlands 2023-2026, working collaboratively with regional partners.

The conference will showcase how businesses, communities, tourism providers, local authorities and skills providers are capitalising on new opportunities and collaborating to become a more sustainable, resilient, and vibrant Midlands economy. Together we Thrive!

Why Attend?

This event is designed to support businesses, local authorities, and community groups in harnessing the opportunities created by climate action and regenerative tourism. Attendees will:

• Join a Growing Movement: Be part of a regional push towards a more sustainable, resilient, and vibrant Midlands economy.
• Gain Actionable Insights: Hear from practitioners, local and international on successful green economy and regenerative tourism initiatives
• Explore Business Opportunities: Learn how climate action can create new business opportunities and underpin economic growth in the Midlands.
• Develop Partnerships: Connect with tourism, enterprise, and community development leaders to foster long-term collaboration, driving economic successful.
  
  

Who Should Attend?

• Entrepreneurs and business owners looking to pivot towards sustainability
• Tourism and hospitality businesses
• Local authorities: Enterprise, Community, Climate & Tourism Teams
• Sustainable Energy Communities and remote working hubs
• Community groups and leaders, and development groups
• Skills providers and enterprise support agencies

Welcome: Minister for Enterprise, Trade & Employment

Session 5: Connecting and Collaborating, Tourism Speed Networking Event, PH Egan Suite

14.00 -15.30: MC: Julie O’ Brien.

Playing your Part – be inspired by:

Role of the Individual - Malzards Pub & Hurling Experience, Fred Malzard

Inspiration from Midlands Heroes –

• Glamping under the Stars, Kyra Fingleton
• Fiona Egan, Fiona Egan – Cloughan Farm & Cookery School

Followed by Speed Networking, explore partnerships and opportunities

The Midlands Regional Enterprise Plan Pathway for Just Transition Project is co-funded by the Government of Ireland and the European Union through the EU Just Transition Fund Programme 2021-2027