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21 Oct 2025
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21 Oct 2025
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Clare Gormley, Department of Agriculture and Theresa Sheehy | PICTURE: Orla Murray/Coalesce
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ONE Limerick woman who attributes some of her success to a free business development programme is encouraging other female entrepreneurs to apply, as the deadline looms.
Theresa Sheehy, founder of Theresa’s Country Supplies of Ballydonell, Feohanagh, has successfully completed the ACORNS programme – a development initiative which supports early-stage female entrepreneurs living in rural Ireland.
Ms Sheehy is encouraging other females in Co Limerick to apply for the next cycle of the free initiative, as the deadline for applications is September 20.
ACORNS has been providing a decade of support for early-stage female entrepreneurs and is funded through the Rural Innovation and Development Fund by the Department of Agriculture, Food, and the Marine (DAFM).
Ms Sheehy recently completed the last cycle of the programme, ACORNS 9. Her company, Theresa’s Country Supplies provides high quality products for farmers involved in the care of animals.
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“ACORNS 9 was truly an amazing opportunity and I strongly encourage participation,” Ms Sheehy said.
“Securing a spot in this esteemed programme couldn't have happened at a more opportune moment. The past six months have truly been a remarkable journey, feeling grateful for the inspiring circle of entrepreneurs I've been part of.”
She concluded by saying that she is “excited to witness the endeavours” of other “remarkable women unfold”.
ACORNS is based on the belief that early-stage entrepreneurs learn best from their peers.
Participants interact with each other in the monthly round table sessions, which are facilitated by a Lead Entrepreneur, who has first-hand experience of starting and successfully growing a business in rural Ireland.
There are up to 50 places available for ACORNS 10. Those wishing to receive an application form should register on the website.
ACORNS 10 will run from October 2024 to April 2025.
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