Tag: Local Area Enterprise Office

Of Interest: Makers Academy Launched – Kilkenny Design and the Local Enterprise Office

Published on by Feltmakers Ireland
A group of eight women and one man gathered around a table decorated with various crafted items, showcasing products and artwork at the Kilkenny Design Makers Academy.

The Local Enterprise Office (LEO), in partnership with Kilkenny Design, have launched The Makers Academy, a business development programme designed to support ambitious local makers, designers and creative entrepreneurs in building sustainable and scalable businesses.

The initiative will provide selected participants with access to industry-leading expertise, mentoring, a business development bootcamp, support, and retail insights from some of Ireland’s most experienced retail and enterprise professionals.

Applications close Friday, the 26th of June (due Thursday at midnight).

For more information, contact your local LEO or visit this page on the LEO website – https://www.localenterprise.ie/news-and-events/local-enterprise-offices-kilkenny-design-launch-makers-academy.html

Their Instagram @officialkilkennydesign @local_enterprise_offices  @enterprise_ireland,

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Open Call: Local Area Enterprises Support for Showcase Ireland 2027

Published on by Feltmakers Ireland
A woman poses with craft items, including handmade soaps, at a Local Enterprise Showcase event. The image features various products such as candles and mugs, promoting local craft and design talent in Ireland.


Showcase – Ireland’s Creative Expo, which takes place from the 17th to 19th of January 2027, is the foremost place for retailers to discover unique, design-led fashion and wellness, knitwear, jewellery, craft, gift, and interiors. The show attracts buyers and media from Ireland and around the world.

Makers in the following sectors are invited to apply:

  • Fashion & Knitwear
  • Jewellery
  • Home & Gift Crafts

Each Local Area Enterprise Office (LEO) has been allocated a limited number of exhibition stands for Showcase Ireland 2027.

Please note that this is a competitive application process, and places will be awarded based on specific suitability and eligibility criteria. All applications will be reviewed by the Local Enterprise Village Committee to ensure a high-quality and diverse showcase of local businesses.

Applications close on Wednesday, the 20th of May.

Mandatory In-Person Training
Selected exhibitors must attend one of the following workshops:

  • Athlone: 23rd September 2026
  • Limerick: 30th September 2026

Note: Applicants must apply via their local LEO branch – https://www.localenterprise.ie/find-your-local-enterprise-office/

For more information, visit the LEO website – https://www.localenterprise.ie/enable-enterprise-culture/showcase-2027-applications-open!/

Disclaimer for Feltmakers Ireland Blog

Feltmakers Ireland aims to share information about awards, education, events, exhibitions, and opportunities that you will find interesting. Our sharing is neither paid for by nor an endorsement of these individuals or organisations.

Contact Us: If you have any concerns about content, please email us at feltmakersie@gmail.com.

Questions: For questions about the content, please follow the link to the organisation hosting the event.

Education: Business Development Courses – Local Enterprise Offices

Published on by Feltmakers Ireland
Map highlighting various Local Enterprise Offices across Ireland, showing their locations with markers.

There are 31 Local Area Enterprise Offices (LEO) in Ireland, which support people interested in starting a new business or already in business.

LEO offer courses in the following subjects:

  • Starting a Business
  • Financial Management
  • Technology
  • Online Marketing
  • Social Media and AI
  • Computerised Bookkeeping
  • Business Planning

Many craftspeople and makers have taken the ‘Start Your Own Business’ courses and recommend them. The courses length and cost vary depending on location.

Here is a link that shows a map of the various LEO offices – https://www.localenterprise.ie/find-your-local-enterprise-office/

In general, participants are expected to attend courses run by their local LEO. That being said, the various offices offer different selections. Some offer courses online, while some others have in-person courses. Mentoring and financial supports, such as grants must come from one’s local LEO.

Our editor subscribes to three of the 4 local Dublin LEO’s free email newsletters; she has observed that the Fingal LEO offers the greatest selection of subjects of interest to artisans/craftspeople.

Here are two upcoming one-day classes from the FIngal LEO that may be of interest –

Promotional graphic for an online workshop on selling food and craft products at markets and pop-ups, featuring a colourful stall display with merchandise, including bags, clothing, and artwork.

These short, practical LEO sessions focus on real-world selling opportunities and online platforms that are especially relevant for makers looking to grow their businesses.

So, if you are interested in learning more about developing your business, subscribe to the e-newsletter of your Local Enterprise Office.

Disclaimer for Feltmakers Ireland Blog

Feltmakers Ireland aims to share information about awards, education, events, exhibitions, and opportunities that you will find interesting. Our sharing is neither paid for by nor an endorsement of these individuals or organisations.

Contact Us: If you have any concerns about content, please email us at feltmakersie@gmail.com.

Questions: For questions about content, please follow the link to the organisation involved in hosting the event.