The Exchange in Carlow was alive with festive cheer and entrepreneurial spirit as the Student Enterprise Christmas Fair took place on the 12th and 13th of December 2024. This annual event, part of the Local Enterprise Office's Student Enterprise Programme (SEP), brought together secondary schools from across the county, including Coláiste Eoin, Presentation College Carlow, St. Leo's College, Tyndall College, Tullow Community School, Presentation De La Salle, and Coláiste Aindriú Bagenalstown.
The fair was a resounding success, showcasing the creativity, innovation, and business acumen of Carlow's talented students. Over 22 stalls, managed by enterprising students, offered a delightful array of handmade gifts, festive treats, artisanal products, and creative services. Attendees enjoyed Christmas songs while supporting the next generation of local business leaders.
The Student Enterprise Christmas Fair is part of the broader Student Enterprise Awards, Ireland’s largest and most successful student enterprise programme, coordinated by the network of Local Enterprise Offices. Each year, the programme engages over 26,000 second-level students nationwide, helping them develop key entrepreneurial skills by starting and managing their own businesses. The initiative supports students throughout the academic year, culminating in regional and national competitions that celebrate the creativity, hard work, and business acumen of Ireland’s young entrepreneurs.
Over the two days, the Carlow fair attracted a significant number of visitors, making it one of the best-attended events of the year. Student-led businesses generated substantial sales, providing students with invaluable hands-on experience in entrepreneurship.
Sarah Byrne, Business Advisor with Carlow Local Enterprise Office, remarked:
“This year’s Christmas Fair was a fantastic opportunity for our students to showcase their talents and hard work. The feedback from attendees was overwhelmingly positive, and it’s clear that our students have a bright future ahead.”
Attendees praised the variety and quality of the products, the vibrant atmosphere, and the professionalism of the student stalls. The success of this event was made possible by the support of students, parents, and the wider community. Rosie Dunne, Student Enterprise Co-ordinator, added:
“We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who contributed to this event, from our dedicated students to the local families who joined us to celebrate the season.”
Cllr. Fergal Browne, Cathaoirleach of Carlow County Council, attended the fair and expressed his admiration for the students' efforts:
“The Student Enterprise Christmas Fair exemplifies the entrepreneurial spirit that thrives within our young people here in Carlow. Events like these not only provide practical business experience but also foster a sense of community and innovation that is vital for our county's future economic development. The energy and creativity displayed by our students show that Carlow’s entrepreneurial future is in safe hands.”
As we reflect on the success of the Student Enterprise Christmas Fair, we look forward to continuing to inspire and empower our students to turn their ideas into reality through the Student Enterprise Programme. For more information about the programme, visit: www.studententerprise.ie.