South West College will welcome leading entrepreneur, author and business mentor Seán Gallagher to Enniskillen as keynote speaker at a special World Creativity Day Business Breakfast on 21 April 2026 at the College’s CREST Centre.
Creative thinking has played a major role in driving innovation across the region, an area that has traditionally faced challenges linked to rurality and lower levels of investment. Innovation, collaboration and enterprise have been key drivers of economic growth in the region, helping businesses adapt, diversify and compete.
The event forms part of a wider showcase taking place across the Further Education sector, highlighting the role FE colleges play in supporting businesses through research, development and innovation projects across Northern Ireland and the island of Ireland.
The breakfast event will bring together businesses, researchers, innovators, funders, community partners, South West College staff and students to highlight the importance of research and development in supporting innovation, particularly in regions facing economic challenges. A strong focus will be placed on the opportunities available through cross-border collaboration and funding.
Seán Gallagher, well known for his role on RTÉ’s Dragons’ Den and for championing entrepreneurship across Ireland, will share his personal business journey, including the successes and setbacks he experienced, and the role that funding, research and development played in supporting growth and new opportunities.
The event will also showcase the work of Innotech, the business development team at South West College, and how the College supports micro, small and medium-sized businesses through fully funded research and development projects across Northern Ireland and the island of Ireland, including recent collaborations with companies such as Newtricity and Galetech.
Nicola Quinn, Head of Business and Industry Support at South West College, said:
“World Creativity Day provides a powerful platform to celebrate the role of creativity in shaping the future of our regional economy. By bringing together businesses from across the region, we are strengthening connections and encouraging shared innovation. We are delighted to welcome Seán Gallagher to South West College as we continue to support organisations to innovate, diversify and thrive.”