Helen Nolan

Co-Founder and Chief Executive

Helen Nolan is an ambitious, passionate and community driven Social Entrepreneur who is the Co-Founder & CEO (Chief Executive Officer) of the multi-award-winning Social Enterprise Spraoi agus Spórt in Carndonagh Co Donegal. Holding a BA in Accounting & Finance (DCU (Dublin City University)) and a chartered accountant, Helen enjoyed a successful career across several large Irish firms including Kepak and Boyne Valley Foods before returning home to Carndonagh in 2007. Passionate about community, Helen applied her business expertise and life experiences to help build and develop the successful and socially innovative Spraoi agus Spórt.

Helen freely gives of her time and expertise within her local community and has successfully helped to secure funding of over €14 million. Helen is a previous recipient of Rethink Ireland funding and has completed the Empower Growth programme. She knows the highs and lows of growing a social enterprise in rural Ireland. She is currently Chair of Inishowen Development Partnership, she also sits on the Board of Management of St Patrick’s Girls’ School, Carndonagh Community School, Donegal PPPN (Public Participation Network) Carndonagh GAA (Gaelic Athletic Association) and 8th Donegal Scouts. She is married to Mark. Together they have 4 daughters. She enjoys walking the beach, swimming in the sea, reading, and watching movies with her daughters.