Applications are now open for one of Ireland's most prestigious international trade events, with a closing date of Tuesday, 20th May 2026.
Carlow County Council's Local Enterprise Office is encouraging craft and creative businesses across County Carlow to apply for a place at Showcase Ireland's Creative Expo 2027, as applications are now officially open.
Showcase is one of Ireland's largest and most established international trade shows, taking place annually at the RDS, Dublin. Running for over 50 years, Showcase is Ireland's destination for design-led fashion, knitwear, jewellery, homewares, gifts, and crafts. The event attracts buyers from over 20 countries and more than 3,350 retailers spanning Ireland, the United Kingdom, the United States, Mainland Europe and the Far East. Presented on behalf of the Design & Crafts Council Ireland, with the support of Enterprise Ireland and the Local Enterprise Offices nationwide, Showcase hosts in excess of 450 exhibitors, from established Irish designers and manufacturers to emerging brands making their mark on the international stage.
Participation at Showcase represents a significant opportunity to access global buyers, grow their export reach and position their work within one of Ireland's most respected trade platforms and, as such, Carlow County Council's Local Enterprise Office encourages makers and creative businesses based in County Carlow to apply. Interested businesses are urged to apply now via this application link as the applications will close on Tuesday, 20th May.
Speaking about next year's Showcase event, Kieran Comerford, Head of Economic Development and Enterprise in Carlow County Council's Local Enterprise Office, said 'The craft and creative sector is a vital part of County Carlow's economic and cultural identity. The makers, designers and artisans working in this county produce work of outstanding quality, and Showcase Ireland's Creative Expo is one of the best platforms available to bring that work to an international audience. I would strongly encourage all eligible businesses in County Carlow to review this opportunity and submit their application.'
Cllr Ken Murnane, Cathaoirleach of Carlow County Council added 'County Carlow has a rich tradition in craft and creativity, and that tradition deserves to be seen on the widest possible stage. Showcase 2027 is a genuine opportunity for our local creative businesses to connect with buyers from across the world and to grow in ways that would otherwise take years to achieve. My message to every craft and creative business in Carlow is straightforward: this opportunity is for you, and you should apply.'
For further information, contact Dearbhla O'Dwyer, Business Advisor in Carlow County Council's Local Enterprise Office on dodwyer@carlowcoco.ie or 087-2705020.