Our Story
The EMPOWER programme began its transformative journey in 2017, initially spanning across Galway, Mayo, and Roscommon through the ATU (GMIT) Innovation Hubs. Spearheaded by Maria Staunton, this groundbreaking initiative was funded by the Government of Ireland and the European Social Fund as part of the Programme for Employability, Inclusion and Learning 2014-2020.
Building on the impressive results of EMPOWER I, we secured funding for EMPOWER II (2019-2022), expanding our reach to include Sligo, Leitrim, and Donegal. Under the management of Sandra Divilly Nolan, the programme was delivered through ATU Innovation Hubs across six counties.
Our current programme offerings include EMPOWER Cumasú and EMPOWER Elevate. Funding for EMPOWER Cumasú was granted by Údarás na Gaeltachta and is for females in the Gaeltacht areas of counties Donegal, Mayo, Galway, Meath, Kerry, Cork and Waterford. Cumasú Tús is designed for women with an early-stage idea (less than 18 months) looking to set up and start their business, whilst Cumasú Fás is designed for women with an established business (18 months plus) looking to scale and grow.
EMPOWER Elevate is a prestigious 20-month programme which creates a new ecosystem for established businesswomen in Co. Mayo and Co. Galway. This programme was co-funded by Mayo Local Enterprise Office and Galway Local Enterprise Office.
Supporting women in business with tailored startup support, expert mentorship, and structured business acceleration, EMPOWER enables entrepreneurs to transform ideas into thriving companies while advancing regional development.
To find out more about our programmes and to register your interest, please email: empower.galwaymayo@atu.ie
Meet Our Team
