Small and Medium Enterprises from across the South East region gathered in Google headquarters last week for ‘Digital 25’ a major business event hosted by Google and the Local Enterprise Offices of the South East region. Held at Google’s Foundry in Dublin, the event focused on empowering local businesses with cutting-edge digital and AI strategies to thrive in 2025 and beyond.
Over 150 SME owners and entrepreneurs attended the event, which featured a range of interactive sessions, expert panels, and workshops designed to help businesses embrace digital transformation and leverage artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance their marketing strategies.
The day began with a welcome address from Vanessa Harley, Head of Google Ireland on AI and the importance of using AI in a responsible way. Following her, Annette Rowsome, from Local Enterprise Office Wexford highlighted the importance of digital innovation for SMEs in today’s fast-evolving marketplace and the supports available from Local Enterprise Offices.
Attendees were then treated to a series of insightful presentations, including a session on basic digital strategy and tools, which covered the essentials of driving website traffic, using scheduling tools, and implementing effective content strategies. A unique ‘AI Art Showdown’ captivated the attendees, as they learned how to create stunning visual content using AI image prompting technology. Carlow’s Kim Mackenzie-Doyle of ‘the Big Idea’ showcased her creative skills to be deemed the winner of this event.
Attendees also had the opportunity to hear from Marisa Manzocco, Accelerated Growth Consultant at Google Customer Solutions. Marisa delivered a dynamic presentation on the role of AI in driving business growth, emphasising how small businesses can harness AI-powered tools to streamline their operations, personalise customer experiences, and boost marketing efficiency. Her insights were particularly valuable for SMEs looking to scale efficiently without overwhelming their resources. "AI is no longer a tool reserved for big businesses. It's accessible, affordable, and can give SMEs a competitive edge by optimizing processes and enhancing customer engagement," said Manzocco during her presentation.
The highlight of the day were the breakout sessions, where attendees chose between Content Creation and Marketing 101 and Marketing Strategy and AI. Business owners left with actionable insights, such as how to build a community, convert visitors into customers, and harness the potential of AI-powered marketing tools.
A panel discussion on ‘Online Strategies for Small Businesses in 2025’ heard from those at the forefront of implementing digital strategies for business growth. The panel, moderated by Google, featured Jen Langan, Marketing Director of Grow It Yourself (GIY), Darragh O’Ciarba, Co-Founder and CEO of Groopeze, Miriam Cushen, owner of Cushendale Woollen Mills, Leona O’Shea, Marketing Manager at Barrow Training in Carlow and David Walsh, Waterford Local Enterprise Office The panelists discussed the latest trends in digital marketing, the growing role of AI, and the key tools such as Grow Digital SMEs need to remain competitive in a fast-changing digital environment.
Speaking after the event, Sarah Byrne Business Advisor with the Local Enterprise Office in Carlow said “Events like Digital 25 are essential for small business owners looking to stay competitive in a digital-first world.” She went on to say “By collaborating with industry leaders like Google, the Local Enterprise Offices are able to provide local SMEs with practical knowledge and insights into how they can use AI and digital tools to future-proof their businesses.”