Cork businesses showcase products and services on 'national stage' at Ploughing Championships

Two small businesses based in Cork are getting the opportunity to showcase their products and services to almost 300,000 visitors at this week’s Ploughing Championships in Screggan, Co Offaly. 

Kinsale entrepreneur Laura Lyons has developed Sónua, an app-controlled scented rechargeable LED candle, which is designed to provide the glow and fragrance of a traditional candle without the flame or waste.

The Carrigaline-based Target Genetics provides advanced bovine genetics and embryo production services to beef and dairy farmers across Ireland and Northern Ireland. 

Founded by veterinary surgeon Paddy Buckley, the company helps farmers improve herd performance through innovative breeding technologies.

The two Cork businesses are being showcased at the Local Enterprise Village at the ploughing championships, which features more than 30 small businesses from across Ireland. 

The showcase offers participants a chance to connect with new customers and raise awareness of their brands before a national audience.

Mayor of the County of Cork Bernard Moynihan said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for two innovative Cork businesses to showcase their products and services on a national stage.

“The Local Enterprise Village has become one of the most popular attractions at the National Ploughing Championships and provides an invaluable platform for small businesses to grow their customer base and expand their reach.”

This year, the Local Enterprise Village also has a business advice hub for any budding entrepreneurs or existing businesses, who want to get advice from the local enterprise office’s specialist business advisers.

There are advisers on hand to meet with anyone who wants to get a business idea off the ground or for those with an existing business who may want advice on funding, sustainability or building digital and AI into their business.

The Local Enterprise Village is also hosting the Google AI team this year, following on from the success of the Google area in 2025.

The tech experts have an interactive area focused on making AI work for individuals and their businesses.

For further information on supports available from the Cork Local Enterprise Offices, visit localenterprise.ie.