Dear Chamber Members,

I’m delighted to share some very positive news with you this week. The Enterprise Europe Network (EEN) Ireland, one of the services delivered by Cork Chamber, has been recognised with the prestigious title of “Best Agency Support to Business” at the Chambers Ireland InBusiness Recognition Awards 2025.

This recognition reflects not only the outstanding work of the EEN Ireland consortium, but also the deep impact of the service right here in Cork. For us, it’s more than just an award, it’s a clear endorsement of the power of collaboration, international partnership and tailored business support in driving success for our region’s SMEs.

Since its inception in 2008, the Enterprise Europe Network has supported thousands of Irish companies in accessing international markets, finding global partners and unlocking EU funding. It is a shining example of how EU-level initiatives, when delivered locally, can create tangible and lasting value for businesses.

At Cork Chamber, we are proud to be one of the host organisations of EEN Ireland, working alongside our valued partners in Enterprise Ireland, Dublin Chamber and the Local Enterprise Offices. Through this collaboration, we are able to offer expert, free-of-charge services to help SMEs and entrepreneurs take their ideas and innovations to the world stage.

Here in Cork, we have seen first-hand how the EEN makes a difference. Among the many Cork businesses to benefit from EEN support recently is Blade Bridge, an innovative firm repurposing decommissioned wind turbine blades into sustainable infrastructure, helping to close the loop between renewable energy and waste reduction. Meanwhile, 9 White Deer, an award-winning brewery in West Cork, used the EENergy grant support to improve operational efficiency through the installation of energy-saving technology and therefore significantly reduce its energy consumption.

These are not just success stories, they are symbols of the ambition and resilience of our SME community, which remains the backbone of our regional economy. This award validates the trust that businesses place in us to deliver services that truly make a difference. It also reinforces our belief in the value of European cooperation. The EU remains an essential partner in supporting Ireland’s business ambitions, and the EEN is a powerful vehicle to turn that support into action.

Supporting SMEs is at the heart of everything we do, and with that in mind, I encourage you to join us at our upcoming Inside Track: Public Affairs Update for SMEs on Thursday, July 10th. This event is designed specifically for SME members, offering insights into key policy developments and the advocacy work we do on your behalf. It’s also a valuable forum to engage with our team, raise issues that matter to your business, and connect with fellow members. REGISTER FREE HERE

As we look to the future, Cork Chamber will continue to focus on what matters most: helping businesses like yours to grow sustainably, compete globally and connect meaningfully. With services like EEN, we are not just reacting to today’s challenges, we are proactively building tomorrow’s opportunities.

Thank you for being part of our vibrant business community. We are proud to support you every step of the way.

Warm regards,
,

Conor Healy
CEO, Cork Chamber