Applications open for new South East Innovators Entrepreneurship Academy
Applications are now open for The South East Innovators Entrepreneurship Academy, a new six-month programme designed to support ambitious individuals looking to start their own high-potential scalable businesses across the region. With places strictly limited, those interested are being encouraged to apply early via www.theinnovators.ie Led by Waterford Chamber, and supported by Waterford Local Enterprise Office and Klearcom, the Academy is focused on identifying ambitious entrepreneurs with the potential
Commissioner highlights universities’ pivotal role in EU at SETU Foundation Day event
EU Commissioner Michael McGrath has reaffirmed the vital role universities play in shaping Europe’s future during the annual Foundation Day celebrations at South East Technological University (SETU). This month, SETU is hosting a series of Foundation Day events across Waterford, Wexford and Carlow, marking four years of ‘Making Impact’ since the University’s establishment in 2022. Speaking at today’s (1 May) ‘Making Impact, Connecting to Europe’ event, held at SETU’s Cork Road Campus in Waterford,
Waterford Festival of Food draws record crowds
17th edition sees a 10% increase in attendees as more than 150 events unfold from Dungarvan to Waterford City, delivering a strong boost to the regional economy There was a huge buzz across Waterford this weekend. Not only was it the sunniest weekend of the year but Waterford Festival of Food brought an estimated 80,000 people to Dungarvan, Waterford City and surrounds. From busy quayside markets to packed dining rooms, and from orchards and mountain farms to events in unique pop-up venues, the 2026
Mount Congreve Garden Festival 2026
Sunday, 10th May | 9:00am – 5:00pm A celebration of plants, people and place in one of the Great Gardens of the WorldFestival HighlightsOver 20 specialist nurseries from across IrelandRare, unusual and hard-to-find plantsMeet the GrowersSpecial guest talk by Elmer Dool350m Estate-to-Plate Festival Menu in the Stables Café10% off Mount Congreve Memberships (on the day)Discounted entry across the Waterford GardensFree Festival Area | Discounted Entry to Mount Congreve GardensFestival Programme: 12:00pm –
SETU unveils strategy to drive ambitious sustainability goals
South East Technological University (SETU) has launched its inaugural Sustainability Strategy 2026-2030, marking a major milestone in its commitment to building a more resilient future by firmly embedding sustainability at the core of its teaching, research, and regional engagement. The ambitious strategy was unveiled on Wednesday, 22 April as part of the University’s fourth annual Sustainability in the Arts Festival. The week-long festival brings together students, staff, artists and members of the
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Theatre Royal announces new Artists-in-Residence
Theatre Royal Waterford has announced a new three-year artistic residency with Shakespeare Squared Collective, marking a significant investment in the long-term development of theatre-making in Waterford and the wider South East region. Founded in 2022 by theatre-makers Deirdre Dwyer, Joe Meagher and Eimear Cheasty, Shakespeare Squared brings together professional actors, directors and creatives with a shared focus on creating ambitious, accessible work rooted in place and community. Since its formation,
Inspirational speakers at Regional Leaders Programme Closing Lunch
The closing lunch of Waterford Chamber's Regional Leaders Programme at Faithlegg, brought together participants, mentors, coaches, and business leaders to celebrate the conclusion of another highly successful leadership development journey. The programme has provided participants with an invaluable opportunity to develop their leadership skills, broaden their perspectives, and build strong networks with peers from across the region. Throughout the programme, mentoring, coaching, and shared learning have
SETU to host international conference connecting regional business with global expertise
South East Technological University (SETU) will host a major international conference this June, bringing global experts in quality, innovation, and sustainability to Waterford, with strong opportunities for regional businesses to engage. The 7th International Conference on Quality, Innovation and Sustainability (ICQIS 2026) will take place from 10–12 June 2026 at SETU’s Cork Road, Waterford campus. The event is expected to attract researchers, industry leaders, and practitioners from across Ireland and
Waterford City set for major summer boost as The Reg announces The Churchyard Sessions 2026
23 NIGHTS OF FREE OUTDOOR LIVE MUSIC THROUGHOUT THE SUMMER Waterford’s summer events calendar is set for another major boost as The Reg has officially announced the return of its hugely popular summer music festival 'The Churchyard Sessions', bringing 23 nights of free live music to Bailey’s New Street from May through September 2026. Following a standout 2025 season that attracted thousands of people to the Viking Triangle, The Churchyard Sessions have grown into one of the city’s most vibrant cultural
SETU and University Hospital Waterford sign MoU to advance pharmacy education
South East Technological University (SETU) and University Hospital Waterford (UHW) have formally signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) establishing a strategic framework for collaboration across education, research, and clinical practice in pharmacy. The agreement sets out a structured approach to discussions and future initiatives between the two organisations, with a focus on enhancing opportunities for students, staff, and healthcare professionals, while ultimately improving patient
Exercise as medicine: SETU hosts global experts to reshape cancer care in Ireland
South East Technological University (SETU) welcomed leading international experts to Waterford for a major forum on exercise and cancer, highlighting the region’s growing reputation as a centre of excellence in health and exercise research. The event brought together globally recognised researchers alongside local clinicians, research students, and cancer survivors to explore how exercise can improve cancer treatment and recovery. Among the keynote speakers were Dr Ciarán Fairman, Assistant Professor at
Blackwater Valley Opera Festival and Curraghmore Whiskey announce partnership
A new partnership between Curraghmore Whiskey and Blackwater Valley Opera Festival brings together two established Waterford brands with shared values, craft, heritage and long-term investment in place. Founded on over 850 years of heritage, Curraghmore Whiskey is a Single Estate Pot Still Irish Whiskey made entirely from barley and oats grown on the historic Curraghmore Estate in County Waterford. The estate has been home to the De La Poer Beresford family since 1167. Every drop of Curraghmore Whiskey is
Get motoring to George Corbett’s for Chamber Business Expo
Waterford’s dynamic business community will be celebrated in style at the Waterford Chamber Business Expo, taking place on Thursday, April 23rd from 4pm to 7pm at George Corbett Motors on the Cork Road.Free to attend and open to the public, the Business Expo will bring together businesses of all sizes, sectors, and stages of growth, creating a powerful platform for networking, collaboration, innovation, and regional economic promotion.According to Gerald Hurley, CEO Waterford Chamber: “We call this the
Walton Institute, SETU to deliver new national AI facility
Walton Institute at South East Technological University (SETU) has secured over €1 million in funding under a €17 million national investment announced today by Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, James Lawless TD. The funding will support the development of the Walton AI Facility, an advanced artificial intelligence and high-performance computing (HPC) platform designed to strengthen Ireland’s research and innovation capacity and support industry adoption of
Food experiences in extraordinary places: 10 unique places to indulge at Waterford Festival of Food
From Crystal Halls to Woodland Tables, Historic Estates, Mountain Trails, Boats, Apple Orchards, a Bakery, Breweries and a Medieval Museum! Don’t miss Waterford Festival of Food, taking place next week (24–26 April 2026). The festival celebrates the connection between the county’s landscape, its producers, chefs and restaurants, but what truly sets it apart are the extraordinary venues that host the weekend’s festivities. This year’s programme features venues as diverse as the home of Waterford Crystal,
8 new ways to experience Waterford Festival of Food 2026 across the county
Waterford is preparing for a feast like no other this April as the 17th Waterford Festival of Food returns from 24–26 April 2026, offering a programme of more than 150 events across Dungarvan, West Waterford, and, for the first time, Waterford City. With many events already selling out, here are eight new standout experiences across the county that food lovers won’t want to miss: This year, for the first time ever, Waterford City plays a big role in the festival. Among the standout events is
Local Enterprise Office launches Pitch Perfect 2026
Are you the next Waterford entrepreneur? Pitch Perfect is a Local Enterprise Office Waterford competition for Start Ups, and it’s calling all those with a new innovative idea or who have recently started a business to apply today. The Local Enterprise Office (LEO), Waterford is offering cash and industry prizes for those who have the best pitch. The Local Enterprise Office Waterford, SETU Xcelerate Centre and Boxworks Co Working Space have joined forces to deliver this Start Up Competition for those with
Waterford Festival of Food 2026 tickets now on sale
Tickets are now on sale for the 2026 Waterford Festival of Food, as excitement builds for what promises to be the festival’s most expansive and dynamic programme to date. Returning from 23–26 April 2026, the festival will once again bring together leading chefs, producers and food lovers across Dungarvan and, for the first time, a range of new venues in Waterford City. Following strong early interest after the programme launch, organisers are encouraging those planning to attend to explore the programme
Walton Institute marks 30 years of ICT research as Ireland prepares for EU Presidency
Walton Institute marks 30 years of ICT research as Ireland prepares for EU Presidency A research institute in Waterford that began as a small telecommunications group is now part of major European research programmes shaping the future of secure communications, artificial intelligence and digital infrastructure. These celebrations take place as Ireland prepares to hold the Presidency of the Council of the European Union later this year, highlighting the country’s growing role in shaping research,
International junior tennis events at St. Anne’s Waterford Tennis Club
Spot the next Alcaraz or Swiatek in action. St. Anne’s Waterford Tennis Club is delighted to announce that it will host two international junior tennis events from Saturday 21st March through Saturday 28th of March. Hosting both events in the same week will be a first for any Irish Tennis Club and represents an enormous organizational undertaking. Players in the Under 18 category will compete in the International Tennis Federation (ITF) J30 and the Under 14 players will take on the Tennis Europe 14 2
Over 1,000 students attend Women in Tech event at SETU
Over 1,000 students attend Women in Tech event at SETU More than 1,000 secondary school students from across the South East attended the sixth annual Women in Tech event at South East Technological University (SETU), highlighting the growing interest in technology careers and the region’s expanding digital sector. Held at SETU Arena in Waterford on Thursday, 12 March, the event brought together students, educators and industry professionals to explore opportunities in areas such as software development,
South East positioned for major economic boost from offshore renewable energy
The South East of Ireland stands to secure a transformative economic uplift from offshore renewable energy development, according to a new report from the South East Energy Agency launched today (March 9th) examining the economic, business and community opportunities arising from the South Coast Designated Maritime Area Plan (SC-DMAP). The report and launch event was funded by the four South East local authorities, and a key theme was the strategic alignment between Waterford, Wexford, Carlow and
Aisco Security’s new Cleaning Division
Aisco Security are pleased to officially introduce this new section of our services, which expands our commitment to providing comprehensive, high-quality support solutions to businesses across the region. Our Cleaning Division offers professional commercial and industrial cleaning services, delivered with the same reliability, attention to detail, and high standards that Aisco Security is known for. We are confident this addition will bring further value to local businesses and organisations. Should you
Waterford Viking Marathon Corporate Challenge
For the first time, we are launching a Corporate Challenge, designed to bring businesses together, encourage employee wellbeing, and add a fun, competitive element to race day. There are two categories to get involved in: Corporate Team Challenge Teams of 3 participants: 1 Full Marathon1 Half Marathon1 10K The fastest combined team wins a beautiful vase from House of Waterford along with a prize voucher.Best Dressed Viking Team Teams of 3 or 4 participants taking part in any race distance Judged on
SETU, WWETB, and Waterford City and County Council champion Education for Sustainable Development as
SETU, WWETB, and Waterford City and County Council champion Education for Sustainable Development as UNESCO Learning City This week, Waterford UNESCO Learning City welcomed delegates from across the island of Ireland for a landmark ‘Shared Island’ event focused on education for sustainable development (ESD). The event forms part of the collaborative efforts of Southeast Technological University (SETU), Waterford City and County Council, and Waterford and Wexford Education and Training Board (WWETB),
SETU expands access to Home Economics with new degree for the southeast
SETU expands access to Home Economics with new degree for the southeast South East Technological University (SETU) has launched its Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) (Hons) in Home Economics. The programme is the first of its kind in the southeast region that gives students the opportunity to study home economics at degree level alongside an additional minor subject from arts and humanities. This is a future-focused, dynamic degree that promotes healthier, more sustainable ways of living across homes, schools,
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SETU to host sixth annual Women in Technology event
SETU to host sixth annual Women in Technology event South East Technological University’s (SETU) sixth annual Women in Technology event will bring together role models from industry and academia to challenge perceptions of technology and encourage more young women to consider careers in the sector. The event at SETU Arena in Waterford, on Thursday, 12 March, aims to grow young women’s understanding of technology and demonstrate the career paths open to them in computing. Building on the success of last
Winter Promotional Express Menu at The Reg
Pair any of these delicious lunch dishes with a soft drink of choice for just €12. The perfect midweek treat! Available for a limited time only between 12:30-4PM Monday to Friday.Just call in or visit https://bookings.tablepath.com/cwg4n1/the-reg-reservations
Experience World-Class Opera: Blackwater Valley Opera Festival 2026 tickets now available
Blackwater Valley Opera Festival (BVOF) will return to Waterford and East Cork from 26 May to 1 June 2026 for a week of exceptional opera and classical music in some of the region’s most striking historic settings. Ireland’s summer opera festival will present over 24 events , with more than 100 performers across 13 historic homes and venues in Lismore, Youghal, Dungarvan, and Castlemartyr. With stunning new venues, international and national talent,and a carefully curated programme, the 2026 season
SETU highlights strong year of research and enterprise impact through TU RISE programme
SETU highlights strong year of research and enterprise impact through TU RISE programme South East Technological University (SETU) is marking a year of significant progress in research, innovation and enterprise engagement, reflecting the University’s commitment to strengthening regional development and supporting industry across the south east. In 2025, SETU expanded its collaborative research activity, enhanced support for researchers, and opened new opportunities for communities and companies to work
Viking Hotel Waterford celebrates new 4 Star classification following major investment
Viking Hotel Waterford is proud to announce that it has been officially awarded 4 Star classification by Failte Ireland, a major milestone in the hotel’s ongoing development and a recognition of the team’s commitment to outstanding hospitality. The hotel is managed by PREM Hospitality, one of Ireland’s leading hotel management companies, whose support and expertise have been central to this success. The accreditation follows significant investment from the hotel’s owners, the Kelly family, who have
Blackwater Valley Opera Festival relaunches Friends Membership
Blackwater Valley Opera Festival will launch a newly structured Friends Membership programme this Autumn that reflects the generosity of those who sustain Ireland’s summer opera festival and its educational work. From this year, a significant portion of contributions made by Friends of the Festival will be dedicated to supporting local events, schools, and young artists – ensuring the festival’s artistic and educational activity continues to thrive across the Blackwater Valley.A philanthropic commitment
Waterford City and County Council approves major investment proposal for Waterford Airport
Waterford City and County Council at a Special Council Meeting held today, Monday 20th October 2025, has approved a landmark investment proposal that will secure the future of Waterford Airport and deliver a transformative €30 million redevelopment project - fully funded through private investment. The proposal, which was brought forward by the Bolster Group and is being advanced through a new company, Waterford Airport Ltd (WAL), will deliver the full Airport Development works set out in the existing
SETU awarded accreditation by PSI for new Master of Pharmacy
South East Technological University (SETU) has announced the official accreditation of its new five-year Master of Pharmacy (MPharm) programme by the Pharmaceutical Society of Ireland (PSI). This announcement is a significant milestone for the University and supports the future of pharmacy education in Ireland. Professor Veronica Campbell, President of SETU, welcomed the news, saying, “Accreditation of our MPharm programme represents a major step for SETU in expanding healthcare education and training in
Waterford Chamber statement on Waterford Airport development
Waterford Chamber of Commerce warmly welcomes the announcement that the Bolster Group has secured an investment partner to advance the development of Waterford Airport. This represents a hugely positive milestone for the South East and a significant step toward realising the airport’s full potential. The economic and social benefits of a fully operational regional airport are undeniable. Waterford Airport has long been recognised as a key piece of infrastructure in the National Planning Framework and is
SETU unveils ambitious Global Strategy aiming to expand international reach
South East Technological University (SETU) has published an ambitious new Global Engagement Strategic Plan, Global Minds, Global and Local Impact 2024–2028. The plan sets out a bold vision to strengthen SETU’s position as a university of scale and influence on the world stage while delivering tangible benefits for Ireland’s South East. It was unveiled at SETU’s Ambassadorial Reception at Walton Institute recently, in the presence of ambassadors and dignitaries from Belgium, Canada, Switzerland, China,
Network Ireland Waterford celebrates double win at National Awards
The Network Ireland National Conference and Businesswoman of the Year Awards took place last weekend at the stunning Great Southern Hotel in Killarney, drawing professional women from across the country to celebrate excellence in leadership, entrepreneurship, creativity, and innovation. The Network Ireland Waterford branch members attended in force, and were absolutely bursting with pride after bringing home two national awards! Suzanne Parker, Highly Commended winner of the Network Ireland Established
Minister Jack Chambers highlights Waterford City Region as Ireland’s most competitive growth hub
The Waterford City Region Advantage Dinner convened key stakeholders from government, enterprise, international embassies and academia to examine the South East’s role in Ireland’s long-term economic strategy and regional development objectives. Organised by Waterford Chamber, in partnership with the regional Chambers of Carlow, Kilkenny, Wexford, Dungarvan & West Waterford, and Tipperary, the event at Faithlegg, underscored the unique advantages of the region as a driver of investment, innovation, and
Taoiseach addresses future leaders at Faithlegg
Waterford Chamber, in partnership with Skillnet Ireland, Waterford Chamber Skillnet and Bausch + Lomb, officially launched the 2025 cycle of the Regional Leaders Programme, with a special address by Taoiseach Micheál Martin. Arriving at Faithlegg House & Golf Resort, the Taoiseach, accompanied by Minister Mary Butler and Minister John Cummins, was greeted by Chamber President Kevin Doolin, Prof Veronica Campbell, President, SETU; Mark Jordan, CEO of Skillnet Ireland, and Mark Hennessy, Vice President of
SETU celebrates a gathering of nations with Ambassadorial reception
Walton Institute at South East Technological University (SETU) welcomed ambassadors and delegates from six embassies to SETU’s West Campus in Carriganore on Friday, 19 September. Delegations from Belgium, Canada, Switzerland, the People’s Republic of China, the United Arab Emirates, and the United Kingdom met with Professor Veronica Campbell, President of SETU, Dr Kevin Doolin, Executive Director of Walton Institute, SETU, and Dr Patricia Mulcahy, Vice President Global Partnerships, SETU. Also in
Cyber Security event in Waterford draws huge turnout and raises funds for local charity
A major Cyber Security event hosted by Unitec IT Solutions in Waterford last week has been hailed as a resounding success, attracting a large and diverse audience while generating lively discussions on one of the most pressing challenges of the digital age. The event, hosted at The Woodlands Hotel, brought together business leaders, technology professionals, educators, and community representatives to explore the latest developments in cyber security and to discuss how individuals and organisations can
Start of construction work on two major capital projects at SETU
South East Technological University (SETU) is delighted to welcome the start of construction work on the second phase of the Higher Education Public Private Partnership (PPP) programme, which includes two significant capital projects for SETU. The Engineering, Computing, and General Teaching Building at the University’s Cork Road Campus in Waterford, along with the Advanced Science Building at the Kilkenny Road Campus in Carlow, are among the five projects included in this project bundle. The new
Unitec opens new Clonmel headquarters and announces 30 new jobs in IT sector
Unitec, a leading provider of IT support services in Ireland, officially opened its new headquarters in Clonmel today with a grand opening ceremony attended by local dignitaries, business leaders, and invited guests. The event marked a significant milestone in Unitec’s journey as the company continues to expand its footprint and invest in the future of digital infrastructure and customer support solutions. The ribbon-cutting ceremony was led by Ian Power, Managing Director, and Aiden Ryan, Technical
Network Magazine - Issue 31
Click here to view/download PDF.IN THIS ISSUE:Think Waterford First: New initiative rewards those who support localBridges to the Future: Laying the path for the next generationWorkability Project: Building inclusive workplacesAIB’s annual Community €1 Million FundMessage to Chamber Members from Waterford Food BankUnlocking Global Talent: How EY can support career growth and diversityDovida launches its Waterford officeNolan Farrell & Goff celebrate 50 years in businessWaterford in ProgressWalton Institute:
Free orbital bus service showcases 5,000 years of Lingaun Valley history in Ireland’s Ancient East
Car-free visitors to the heart of Ireland’s Ancient East now have an opportunity to explore a sacred, unspoilt valley that straddles three counties, and experience 5,000 years of history, on a 50km loop, all at their own pace. The Lingaun Loop bus service pilot begins this Saturday, May 31, offering visitors to the Southeast an opportunity to link in with the orbital minibus service from existing bus or train routes in Kilkenny, Waterford and Tipperary. The free mini-bus service allows visitors to
Dr Sinead Kane inspires new Regional Leaders
Over 50 business professionals graduated from Waterford Chamber’s Regional Leaders Programme at an inspiring lunch event in Faithlegg. Having worked with mentors and coaches over the past six months, the graduates now join an elite alumni of over 500 leaders who have completed the programme to date, a very powerful network of people who are driving forward business development in our region. Opening proceeding, Kevin Doolin, President of Waterford Chamber said: “The very basis for this programme is to
Skillnet business networks 'Scaling Your Business' event showcases power of talent development
Waterford Chamber Skillnet, County Wexford Chamber Skillnet, Carlow Kilkenny Skillnet and County Tipperary Chamber Skillnet joined forces to deliver an impactful conference dedicated to supporting the competitiveness of businesses based in the South East. Over 150 attendees representing more than 100 businesses from across the region gathered at the Newpark Hotel Kilkenny, on April 9th, for the sold-out ‘Scaling Your Business: Strategies, Systems and Solutions’ event. The unique conference provided an
Lives saved as Waterford’s cardiac care moves to seven-day service
A new chapter in cardiac care for the South East has begun, with three patients receiving life-saving treatment during the first weekend of extended cardiac coverage at University Hospital Waterford (UHW). This vital expansion marks the transition from a five-day cardiac service to full seven-day coverage, operating from 8am to 8pm daily, including Bank Holidays. It’s a move hailed as a significant healthcare milestone for the region. Behind this achievement is the relentless advocacy of healthcare
Offshore wind a game changer for the South East
As Ireland works towards achieving its ambitious climate goals, the South East is emerging as a key player in the country’s offshore wind energy sector. This was clearly evident at the Strategic Off-Shore wind meeting held in the Port of Waterford and organised by Waterford Chamber, with the support of Energia and Vårgrønn. According to Kevin Doolin, President of Waterford Chamber: "2025 has the potential to be a pivotal year for offshore wind in Ireland, particularly for the South East. We stand at the
South East Chambers urge Government to approve Waterford Airport Development
South East Chambers urge Government to approve Waterford Airport Development, citing Regional Economic Growth and Job Creation potential The South East Chambers of Commerce – representing Waterford Chamber, Wexford Chamber, Dungarvan & West Waterford Chamber, Kilkenny Chamber and Carlow Chamber – have issued a united call to An Taoiseach, An Tánaiste, and Minister O’Gorman for immediate government action on the Waterford Airport expansion project. In a letter addressed to these government leaders, the
Walton Institute’s Kevin Doolin takes over as President of Waterford Chamber
Kevin Doolin, Executive Director of Walton Institute at SETU, was elected President of Waterford Chamber at the 237th AGM, which took place today (Monday, September 30th) in the Granville Hotel. Mr Doolin has been involved with Waterford Chamber for a number of years and is an active voice in terms of lobbying, particularly around equitable funding for South East Technological University (SETU) and creating a vibrant city centre. Addressing Waterford Chamber members, Mr Doolin said: “It is a great
Chamber Diaspora Dinner sells Waterford to Dublin
‘Waterford is open for business and looking for investors’ was the resounding message delivered loud and clear at Waterford Chamber’s Dublin Diaspora Dinner, sponsored by EY, Waterford Local Enterprise Office and Waterford Chamber Skillnet, at The Dunmore, Rathmines, with over 90 business influencers with connections to Waterford in attendance. Opening proceedings, Niall Harrington, Waterford Chamber President showed his passion for his home city, the opportunities for development and the need for
Offshore wind energy a 'transformative opportunity' for Waterford and the South-East
Multi-billion offshore investments could boost Waterford's economy and jobs market “The advent of offshore wind energy in Ireland provides a potentially transformative opportunity which must be harnessed for Waterford and the entire south-east region”, the President of Waterford Chamber of Commerce, Niall Harrington told delegates at a special conference held by the Chamber in the Houses of the Oireachtas in Dublin. "Waterford’s proximity to Ireland’s designated maritime areas for wind energy
