ACORNS 12 applications now open

The programme aimed at bringing together and supporting rural female entrepreneurs has officially opened applications for its 12th cycle

From left: Kel Galavan, Mrs Smart Money; agriculture minister Martin Heydon; Karen Kerrigan of Kerrigan’s Mushrooms and ACORNS lead, and Elaine Crosse, Bánór, as the minister formally opened the call for applicants for a new cycle of ACORNS.

The ACORNS 12 programme to help support female entrepreneurs starting on their business journey is once again open for applicants.

ACORNS, which stands for Accelerating the Creation of Rural Nascent Start-ups, is now in its 12th year. The deadline for applications is midnight on Friday, September 18, 2026.