Female entrepreneurs across Mid and East Antrim strengthen business ties at annual residential

Kelli McRoberts, Chief Executive at Carrickfergus Enterprise, Elain Harkin, Strategic Revenue Manager from McKeever Hotels and Christine Barnhiill, Economic Development Officer at Mid and East Antrim Borough Council, pictured with the ladies who attended this year’s Enterprising Women Residential.

Female entrepreneurs from across Mid and East Antrim have come together for the fourth annual Enterprising Women Residential, as the fast-growing network continues to expand its support for women at every stage of their business journey.

Held over two days at the Dunadry Hotel, the event brought together 28 members for a programme centred on confidence-building, stronger professional connections and peer support, with organisers highlighting the growing strength of female-led enterprise across the borough.

Delivered by Carrickfergus Enterprise in partnership with Ballymena Business Centre and supported by Mid and East Antrim Borough Council, the Enterprising Women network now supports more than 160 members, underlining its continued growth since being established in 2018.

The latest residential offered participants dedicated time away from the day-to-day pressures of running a business, creating space for reflection, learning and relationship-building in what organisers described as a relaxed and welcoming setting.

A growing network for women in business

The annual residential has become a key fixture in the network’s calendar, designed to help women entrepreneurs step back from the demands of business life and focus on personal and professional development.

Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Councillor Jackson Minford, praised both the entrepreneurs involved and the partnership behind the initiative.

He said:

“Entrepreneurs play a vital role in fostering an inclusive and thriving community and we remain committed to supporting residents throughout their business journey. The Enterprising Women Network make a significant contribution to our local economy, and it is encouraging to see its members invest in their personal and professional development.

“I warmly commend the strong partnership between Carrickfergus Enterprise and Ballymena Business Centre, which is delivering valuable opportunities for female entrepreneurs across our Borough to connect, learn and grow.”

The programme was led by Carrickfergus Enterprise in collaboration with Ballymena Business Centre, continuing a partnership that has helped develop the network into a year-round support platform for women in business.

Confidence, connection and peer support at the heart of the programme

(L-R) Kelli McRoberts, Chief Executive at Carrickfergus Enterprise, Elain Harkin, Strategic Revenue Manager from McKeever Hotels and Christine Barnhiill, Economic Development Officer at Mid and East Antrim Borough Council.

Kelli McRoberts, Chief Executive at Carrickfergus Enterprise, said the residential remains one of the most impactful events in the annual programme.

She said:

“The Enterprising Women Residential is always a standout moment in our programme. It gives members the time and space to step away from day-to-day pressures and focus on their confidence and connections.

“We consistently see the power of bringing women together in a supportive environment, it builds trust, encourages openness and creates lasting relationships.”

That focus on peer-led support and shared experience was echoed by Melanie Christie-Boyle, Chief Executive of Ballymena Business Centre.

She said:

“The residential highlights the value of collaboration and peer support, giving participants the space to reflect, build connections and grow in confidence.

“We are delighted to support this residential, and the dynamic calendar of events organised by Carrickfergus Enterprise.”

Creative sessions and wider business links

Alongside structured networking, the programme included a creative Paint & Sip session delivered by Rose Craft Studio, offering a more informal environment for members to connect.

Organisers said the social setting helped attendees reconnect with existing contacts while also building new relationships, with participant feedback highlighting the value of a supportive and welcoming atmosphere.

The second day saw the event widen its reach further, with female entrepreneurs from the Antrim and Newtownabbey area joining the programme.

That broader participation strengthened links across the wider business community, extending the network’s impact beyond Mid and East Antrim.

Elaine Harkin, Strategic Revenue Manager from McKeever Hotels, said:

“It was a pleasure to meet so many passionate and driven women. Programmes like this are vital in helping build confidence, share experiences and support one another in business.”

Bridgene Keeley, Sales & Marketing Director from McKeever Hotels, who spoke on day two, added:

“The level of ambition and openness in the room was exceptional. When women come together to share knowledge and support each other, it creates momentum that benefits the entire business community.”

Looking ahead to the next programme

Since its launch in 2018, Enterprising Women has developed into a thriving regional network, providing year-round support through networking events, workshops and mentoring opportunities.

With planning already underway for the 2026/27 programme, organisers are now preparing the next phase of support for women-led businesses across the area.

The continued growth of the network, now with more than 160 members, reflects increasing demand for targeted support, collaboration opportunities and leadership development for female entrepreneurs across Mid and East Antrim and beyond.

To find out more or join the network, visit: https://enterprisingwomen.ceal.co.uk/

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At a glance

• Fourth annual Enterprising Women Residential held at the Dunadry Hotel

• 28 members attended the two-day programme

• Network now supports more than 160 women entrepreneurs

• Delivered by Carrickfergus Enterprise and Ballymena Business Centre

• Supported by Mid and East Antrim Borough Council

• Focus on confidence-building, networking and peer support

• Included a Paint & Sip session with Rose Craft Studio

• Day two welcomed entrepreneurs from Antrim and Newtownabbey

• Planning is already underway for the 2026/27 programme