Laois, Ireland to Host Wellness Tourism Networking Event in January 2025, Offering Business Support and Funding Opportunities

Published on December 6, 2025

Laois County Council is taking a proactive approach to supporting wellness tourism businesses in the region by hosting the upcoming Regional Eco & Wellness Tourism Network event. The event, which will take place on January 8 at Bloom HQ in Mountrath, aims to bring together business owners, operators, and community organisations interested in expanding or improving their wellness tourism ventures.

The event will provide networking opportunities, interactive workshops, and direct consultations with experts who can help participants grow their businesses and understand the potential benefits of the wellness tourism sector. As wellness tourism gains global traction, local operators are encouraged to seize the opportunities that lie ahead. The event is intended to help local entrepreneurs break into this profitable and sustainable niche market.

The Significance of Wellness Tourism

Wellness tourism is not just a fleeting trend; it has emerged as a significant component of the global tourism landscape. Defined as travel aimed at promoting health and well-being, wellness tourism includes activities that rejuvenate, relax, and promote holistic health. From spa retreats to nature-based wellness experiences, it caters to the growing number of travelers seeking to improve their mental, physical, and emotional health during their vacations.

For regions like Laois, which offer unique natural landscapes, rich history, and a slower-paced lifestyle, wellness tourism is an ideal avenue for sustainable growth. The sector holds vast potential for local businesses, from boutique accommodations and organic food producers to wellness retreat facilitators and outdoor activity providers. By fostering collaboration, the Laois Regional Eco & Wellness Tourism Network event will empower local stakeholders to align their services with the broader trends in wellness tourism and provide them with tools to stand out in this expanding market.

Event Structure and Benefits

The event will kick off at 9:30 am, bringing together attendees from various local businesses, community organizations, and tourism professionals. Throughout the day, a range of interactive workshops will be conducted. These sessions will offer insights into various aspects of wellness tourism, from marketing strategies to understanding the economic and social impact of ecotourism. Participants will also engage in networking sessions, allowing them to exchange ideas, experiences, and business opportunities with others in the industry.

A key feature of the event will be the availability of mentor clinics, where businesses can book a one-on-one session with a Just Transition regenerative Tourism Activator. These clinics will provide a platform for operators to discuss their current business challenges and expansion plans. Whether it’s expanding a wellness retreat, launching a new ecotourism initiative, or seeking to improve sustainability practices, these personalized consultations will help business owners strategize and plan for the future.

In addition, participants will have the opportunity to meet with advisors from Laois Local Enterprise Office (LEO). The LEO is a key body supporting local businesses in Ireland, providing financial and advisory services aimed at helping entrepreneurs establish and expand their operations. During the event, attendees will learn about the different business supports, including grants, training, and mentoring services available to them.

Moreover, Laois Partnership Company will be present to discuss LEADER funding, which provides financial support for rural businesses and community projects. LEADER is a European Union initiative that focuses on improving the quality of life and fostering economic activity in rural areas. This funding can be used for a variety of projects, including those focused on sustainability, tourism, and local community development.

What to Expect from the Event

For anyone looking to tap into the wellness tourism market in Laois, the event promises to be a valuable opportunity. The workshops and networking sessions will focus on practical strategies for boosting business operations, including how to promote eco-friendly tourism offerings and attract the modern traveller. Attendees can expect to learn more about the growing demand for sustainable tourism and how they can position themselves as leaders in this space.

Participants are also encouraged to engage in one-on-one discussions with experts and mentors. Whether it’s advice on refining marketing strategies, introducing new wellness packages, or managing environmental impacts, the expert consultants will provide actionable insights that can be applied to their business models.

Prepare for the Day

As the event is activity-based, attendees are advised to wear comfortable clothing and footwear. This ensures that they are fully prepared to participate in all aspects of the event, from outdoor sessions to interactive exercises designed to build understanding and foster collaboration. Attendees will also be able to take part in some hands-on experiences, where they can gain practical insights into the wellness tourism practices that are currently making waves in the industry.

The event will wrap up at 1:00 pm with a light lunch, providing another chance for participants to network and continue their discussions in a more relaxed setting. This informal atmosphere will help foster connections that may lead to long-term business relationships and collaborative efforts within the wellness tourism sector.

How to Register

To secure a place at the event, those interested are encouraged to register in advance by emailing Regina Dunne, the Just Transition Regenerative Tourism Activator. Early registration is recommended, as spaces are expected to fill up quickly due to the anticipated demand.

The event is open to business owners, community organizations, and anyone involved in ecotourism, wellness tourism, or related fields within Laois. It offers an excellent platform for those looking to grow their business, expand their networks, and gain access to essential resources to support their ventures.

Conclusion

The Regional Eco & Wellness Tourism Network event in Laois provides an exciting opportunity for local businesses and stakeholders to align with a rapidly growing tourism industry. This event is designed to help participants grow their businesses and become key players in the wellness tourism landscape by offering practical workshops, expert advice, and networking opportunities.

Laois is well-positioned to capitalise on the burgeoning wellness tourism market, and this event will equip attendees with the tools and insights they need to make the most of this promising industry. Whether you’re looking for funding advice, business expansion strategies, or new networking opportunities, don’t miss this event.