The ACORNS programme has been designed to support early-stage female entrepreneurs living in rural Ireland and runs over six months part-time. Past participants report increased sales, exports and employment creation. Based on a belief that entrepreneurs learn best from each other, the ACORNS initiative is centered around interactive round table sessions that are facilitated by female entrepreneurs, known as ‘Lead Entrepreneurs’, who have started and successfully grown businesses in rural Ireland. The initiative is funded by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine through the Rural Innovation and Development Fund.