EU: A Catalyst for Change – Designing EU Projects & International Collaboration Workshop
Date: 7th October 2025
Venue: Woodford Dolmen Hotel , Kilkenny Road , Carlow
Time: 2.00pm – 4.30pm
This interactive workshop explores how local authorities, enterprise centres, and regional stakeholders can engage in meaningful EU collaborations. Learn from real-world case studies, international best practices, and practical guidance on developing EU project proposals and trade connections.
2:00pm - Welcome & Opening Remarks
Kieran Comerford
Head of Economic Development & Enterprise, Carlow County Council
Kieran will open the session by setting the context for EU collaboration in Carlow and the wider region. He will highlight the growing importance of transnational engagement in driving innovation, sustainability, and rural development through enterprise support, tourism, and trade.
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kierancomerford/
2:10pm - Building EY Relationships for Innovation & Development - South East Technological University
Brian Ogilvie
Head of Entrepreneurship & Rural Engagement
This session will explore the strategic value of building long-term relationships across Europe. Brian will present a case study on how EU projects have driven innovation in entrepreneurship, digitalisation, and rural enterprise. He will share insights on identifying relevant EU calls, finding partners, and sustaining collaborative networks.
Linkedin Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-ogilvie-8b71714/
2:30pm - Partnerships & Projects: An Italian Perspective
Chiara dall'Aglio
Head of Department, Sviluppumbria (Regional Development Agency of Umbria, Italy)
Chiara will share practical insights into how Umbria has successfully engaged in cross-border projects to support business, innovation, and regional development. She will provide examples from EU-funded programmes coordinated by Sviluppumbria and discuss how regions can develop meaningful partnerships with European counterparts.
2:50pm - Developing International Trade
Paul Radcliffe
Mayoral Combined Authority / Growth Platform.
Paul will share Liverpool’s approach to supporting SMEs in accessing international markets. Drawing on experience with EU-funded trade initiatives and regional enterprise hubs, he will outline how to build export readiness and leverage international connections to open new markets and investment opportunities.
Linkedin Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-radcliffe-90379766/
3:30pm - Writing an EU Project Proposal: Practical Guidance
Dr. Sergio Botelho
SETU - South East Technological University
Dr. Botelho will demystify the EU proposal-writing process with a focus on key success factors: understanding the call, structuring your idea, building a strong consortium, and writing for impact. Ideal for first-time applicants and experienced partners alike, this session will offer actionable advice and answer your questions on Horizon Europe, Interreg, Erasmus+, and more.
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sergio-b-36008b50/
4:00pm - Networking & Informal Discussion
Enjoy light refreshments while engaging with speakers and fellow attendees. Use this time to explore potential partnerships and follow up on topics of interest.
