Tipperary business wins at women's business grant programme

Visa has announced the five winners of its 2024 She’s Next Grant Programme in Ireland, with Clonmel-based Anewmum, Postpartum Relief Health Care, among this year’s winners.

Now in its fourth year, entries have more than trebled since the programme first launched, highlighting the appetite for support tailored to women in business.

READ NEXT: Public urged to act as planning issues put 60-bed hospital unit at risk in Tipperary

Marian Kennedy, founder of Anewmum, was one of four businesswomen to receive a €10,000 business grant, while this year’s overall winner, Remi, received a €50,000 grant.

As well as the business grants, all five winners of the She’s Next Grant Programme will receive mentoring from award-winning entrepreneur and Visa’s She’s Next Campaign Ambassador, Aimee Connolly, founder of Sculpted by Aimee.

Additionally, they will benefit from business coaching provided by MentorsWork, an initiative by Skillnet Ireland in partnership with the Small Firms Association.

As part of the programme, the winners also participated in group pitch preparation sessions designed to equip them with the skills and confidence to excel when future funding opportunities arise.

Post Partum Relief Healthcare Ltd was founded by Marian Kennedy, a mum of four, in 2015.

Marian was inspired to develop a range of products to support new mothers in their recovery post-birth following her own postpartum experience.

READ NEXT: National Ambulance Service managers are 'heroes at a local level'

Marian is passionate about female healthcare and creating products that are science-backed.

The company’s Anewmum range has been created to help with the physical effects of pregnancy & birth with a range of hygiene and postpartum skincare products.

On winning the grant, Marian Kennedy, PPR Healthcare founder said: “Winning the She’s Next grant has been an incredibly rewarding experience, both personally and professionally. Launching Anewmum has come with challenges, from navigating Brexit to rising global costs, so this recognition is a powerful validation of the market need and future potential of our business. The funding will accelerate product development, support ongoing scientific research, and help us bring innovative solutions to market faster. Additionally, the pitch preparation sessions have been invaluable, equipping me with the skills and confidence to pursue future funding opportunities with even greater success.”

Minister Niamh Smyth, Minister of State at the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment, said: “I am delighted to celebrate the outstanding achievements of this year’s Visa She’s Next Grant Programme winners. These five inspiring female entrepreneurs exemplify the innovation, resilience, and leadership that drive Ireland’s business community forward. Initiatives like She’s Next play a vital role in breaking down barriers for women in business, providing not only essential funding but also mentorship and strategic support. Congratulations to Claire, Marian, Sinéad, Denise, and Lisa on this well-earned recognition - I have no doubt their businesses will continue to thrive and inspire many others. I also want to commend Visa for its continued commitment to empowering female entrepreneurs across Ireland. Its investment in women-led businesses does more than support individual success stories—it strengthens our economy as a whole and paves the way for future generations of female entrepreneurs.”