Midlands, Ireland to Host Key Workshop for Eco and Wellness Tourism Businesses to Drive Growth and Collaboration in 2026

Published on December 20, 2025

The Midlands region of Ireland is set to host an exciting and informative workshop for businesses in the eco- and wellness tourism industries. This event, held on January 8, 2026, at Bloom HQ in Mountrath, Laois, is intended to provide networking and business development opportunities for industry professionals. With a focus on collaboration, this interactive workshop will provide business owners and operators with the knowledge and tools they need to succeed and grow in the thriving wellness tourism industry.

A Focus on Wellness Tourism and Sustainable Growth

Wellness tourism has emerged as a key driver of the global travel industry, valued at over a trillion dollars. The workshop will provide a comprehensive introduction to the wellness tourism landscape, highlighting its immense potential for growth. Attendees will gain insights into the strategies that can be employed to tap into this burgeoning market, with a strong emphasis on sustainability and collaboration.

The event will be led by experienced wellness tourism professionals, including Neil Dennehy from Highest Potential. Through engaging presentations and interactive activities, attendees will be introduced to wellness-focused initiatives that can support both personal and business growth. These sessions will explore how collaboration among wellness tourism businesses can drive mutual success and contribute to the development of a thriving regional sector.

Collaboration and the Role of Local Support

One of the key themes of the workshop is collaboration. Business owners will be encouraged to share their ideas and expansion plans with experts from the Laois Local Enterprise Office (LEO) and the Laois Just Transition Regenerative Tourism Activator programme. By working together, participants will have the opportunity to discuss how to enhance their business visibility, connect with like-minded professionals, and explore funding and support options available for sustainable tourism initiatives.

In particular, the LEADER funding initiative, provided by Laois Partnership Company, will be highlighted as a vital resource for businesses in the region. This funding can help eco- and wellness tourism enterprises develop and grow, whether through infrastructure improvements, marketing efforts, or the expansion of service offerings. By taking advantage of these resources, businesses will be better positioned to thrive in the competitive tourism landscape.

Laois Tourism and the Laois Chamber Alliance will also play an important role in the event. Membership in these organizations will offer increased visibility and networking opportunities, helping businesses in the region attract more tourists, elevate their profiles, and build stronger connections within the broader tourism industry.

The Economic Potential of Regenerative Tourism

As Laois positions itself as a leading destination for regenerative tourism, the economic potential of this growing sector cannot be overstated. The workshop will focus on how businesses in the eco and wellness tourism space can contribute to the green economy while creating unique visitor experiences. By supporting sustainable tourism initiatives, local businesses can help preserve the natural beauty of the Midlands region while providing authentic travel experiences that resonate with eco-conscious travelers.

Regenerative tourism goes beyond traditional sustainability efforts by focusing on restoration and revitalization. It provides opportunities for businesses to not only reduce their environmental impact but also actively improve local ecosystems and communities. This approach benefits both the local economy and the environment, making it a key pillar of Laois’ tourism strategy.

Key Takeaways and Networking Opportunities

The workshop promises to offer a wealth of knowledge for those interested in starting or growing a business in the wellness tourism space. Attendees will gain access to expert advice on a range of topics, including business support, funding opportunities, and marketing strategies. Networking will also be a core element of the event, with participants encouraged to bring business cards and flyers to make valuable connections with other industry professionals.

Laois Local Enterprise Office will offer tailored advice on how to navigate the various financial and mentorship opportunities available to businesses in the sector. For businesses looking to expand or improve their offerings, the workshop will provide a platform for discussions about potential collaborations and partnerships.

By the end of the event, attendees will have a deeper understanding of the wellness tourism market, the resources available to support their growth, and the power of collaboration in building a successful business.

Registering for the Event

The workshop is open to all businesses operating within the eco- and wellness tourism sector in the Midlands, with an emphasis on collaboration and networking. To register for the event, interested parties are encouraged to contact Regina Dunne, the Laois Just Transition Regenerative Tourism Activator.

This event is part of the broader Tourism Activator Programme, which is funded by the Government of Ireland and the European Union through the EU Just Transition Fund. The initiative seeks to support the sustainable growth of the tourism industry in the Midlands, with a particular focus on eco and wellness tourism.

A Year of Growth and Collaboration

The Midlands region is preparing to become a hub for eco and wellness tourism, with a particular emphasis on regenerative tourism as a means of promoting sustainability and economic development. The January 2026 workshop provides an invaluable opportunity for businesses to network, collaborate, and learn from industry experts. Participating in this event will provide businesses with the tools and knowledge they need to succeed in a competitive and growing market, as well as contribute to the development of a sustainable tourism sector in the Midlands.

In the coming years, the Midlands’ wellness tourism industry is expected to grow significantly. As businesses collaborate and leverage available resources and support, Laos has the potential to become a key destination for travellers seeking wellness-focused, eco-friendly travel experiences.