Creative Businesses Invited to Harness the Power of Storytelling Through New Carlow Workshop Series

Carlow County Council Local Enterprise Office, in partnership with Carlow Library Service, is inviting creative practitioners, artists, makers and craftspeople to participate in a unique two-day workshop, "Storytelling for Creative Businesses", led by bestselling author and Carlow County Council Writer in Residence, Caroline Busher.

Taking place in Carlow Library, Tullow Street, Carlow, on Tuesday 15th and Tuesday 22nd September 2026, the programme forms part of the Hands Across Generations project, an initiative funded through the Erasmus+ Programme, which supports learning, creativity, collaboration and community engagement across generations.

The workshop is designed to help creative entrepreneurs develop the skills and confidence needed to tell the story behind their work, strengthen their brand, connect with audiences and build more sustainable creative businesses.

Through a combination of interactive discussions, practical exercises, creative writing activities and peer learning, participants will explore how storytelling can be used as a powerful business tool. Over the course of the two-day programme, attendees will learn how to map their creative journey, identify their unique strengths and values, develop compelling narratives about their work and communicate more effectively both online and in person.

The training will also address audience engagement, networking and self-promotion, helping participants increase visibility, build meaningful customer relationships and strengthen the long-term sustainability of their creative practice.

Councillor Tommy Kinsella, Cathaoirleach of Carlow County Council, welcomed the initiative, saying: "The creative sector is an important contributor to the cultural and economic life of County Carlow. Through the Hands Across Generations project, we are creating opportunities for people to learn new skills, share experiences and build stronger connections within their communities. This workshop combines creativity with practical business development and demonstrates the value of collaborative partnerships between Carlow County Council, the Local Enterprise Office and Carlow Library Service."

Kieran Comerford, Head of Economic Development and Enterprise, Carlow County Council, said:

"Many creative businesses have remarkable stories at their heart, but often struggle to communicate these effectively. This programme will give participants practical tools to articulate their unique value, engage with customers and strengthen their market presence. We are delighted to support this initiative as part of our ongoing commitment to helping creative enterprises develop, grow and thrive in County Carlow."

Workshop facilitator Caroline Busher, an Irish Times bestselling author and experienced creative mentor, will guide participants through the process of developing authentic and engaging stories that reflect both their creative practice and business ambitions. To book your place go to Storytelling for Creative Businesses with Caroline Busher - Local Enterprise Office - Carlow or call 059-9129783.