Showcasing at Consumer & Trade Fairs in Ireland & Internationally

Running weekly on Zoom starting Tuesday 20th May,Tuesday 27th May, Tuesday 3rd June & Wednesday 11th June from 10:00 AM to 12:30 PM.

Developing Your Craft & Creative Business Success

An Expert-Led Online Course from the Local Enterprise Offices in partnership with the Entrepreneurs Academy

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER 

Part of Craft Work 4.0 | Co-funded by the Creative Europe Programme of the European Union

Whether you're a seasoned maker or a creative entrepreneur ready to step into new markets, the opportunity to showcase your work at consumer and trade fairs—locally or internationally—can be a transformative step. But success doesn’t come from just showing up. It comes from showing up prepared, professional, and with purpose.

This 4-session, action-focused online course is designed to take the mystery and guesswork out of showcasing, and instead equip you with the strategies, tools, and real-world insights you need to make the most of every opportunity.

Led by expert trainers and featuring guest insights from successful craft entrepreneurs, trade fair organisers, and wholesale buyers, this programme is tailored for ambitious creatives who want to confidently present their brand, connect with new markets, and grow their business sustainably.

Why Join This Programme?

Creative businesses thrive when passion meets preparation. This course doesn’t just tell you what to do—it walks you through every step, from selecting the right fair to designing your stand, pitching to buyers, and turning leads into loyal customers. If you're thinking about showcasing at events like Showcase Ireland,  Top Drawer or similar this course is your essential companion.

Course Overview – What You’ll Learn Each Week

Session 1: Foundations for Irish & International Trade Fair Success

Trainer: Liz Maguire

The journey begins by understanding the world of trade and consumer fairs—what they are, how they differ, and which ones are best suited for your goals. You'll learn the key differences between direct-to-consumer events and B2B trade fairs, and explore both Irish and international showcase opportunities.

You’ll dive into defining your brand’s unique story, pricing your products for retail and wholesale, and preparing legally and financially for global trade. The session ends with an action-based task: researching and shortlisting the fairs that align with your creative ambitions.

Key Takeaways:

• Understand local and international fair landscapes
• Identify your Unique Selling Proposition (USP)
• Learn pricing strategies for retail, wholesale, and export
• Create a shortlist of target fairs

Session 2: Preparing Your Stand & Product for a Professional Presence

Trainer: Helen McNulty

Once you’ve chosen your fair, it’s time to build your presence. This session helps you visualise and design a booth that attracts attention, encourages interaction, and communicates professionalism—no matter your budget. You’ll explore visual merchandising, signage, and packaging techniques that work.

On top of that, you’ll build a smart, pre-fair marketing plan—so that your ideal buyers know you’re coming. From brochures and business cards to social media strategy and trade fair paperwork, this session ensures you’re ready before the doors even open.

Key Takeaways:

• Booth design strategies that make an impact
• Pre-fair marketing checklists and promotional tips
• Print materials and fair essentials (line sheets, order forms, etc.)
• International logistics like customs, shipping, and paperwork

Session 3:Sales, Networking & Managing Orders (Local & International)

Trainer: Caolan Cullen

It’s showtime! Now you’re at the fair—how do you actually sell, engage, and secure meaningful leads?

This dynamic session focuses on sales techniques, understanding trade buyers, and managing orders on the spot. You’ll learn to pitch confidently, negotiate with wholesale buyers, and process orders efficiently using POS systems and inventory tools.

We’ll also dive into the power of networking—how to meet potential partners, retailers, and even media—and how to follow up in ways that turn conversations into collaborations.

Key Takeaways:

• Pitching to buyers and handling negotiations
• Setting up order systems and taking payments
• Building relationships with agents, retailers, and distributors
• Creating a trade fair follow-up strategy

Session 4:Scaling, Funding & Post-Fair Strategy for Growth

Trainer: Helen McNulty

You’ve done the fair. Now what?

In this final session, you’ll evaluate your fair experience—what worked, what to tweak, and how to turn contacts into clients. More importantly, you'll learn how to use showcasing as a launchpad for long-term growth.

From accessing funding and supports, to selling internationally through platforms like Faire and Ankorstore, to exploring licensing, agent partnerships, and showrooms—this session helps you develop a growth-focused strategy tailored to your business.

Key Takeaways:

• Post-fair reflection and ROI analysis
• Turning leads into lasting relationships
• Funding and grants for international expansion
• Exploring new sales channels and strategic partnerships

What’s Included?

4 x live online training sessions (2.5 hours each) Interactive workbooks and templates Action exercises after each session Guest speaker insights from buyers, organisers & entrepreneurs Access to funding and scaling resources

Who Is This For?

This course is ideal for makers, designers, and creatives who are ready to grow, showcase, and sell their work beyond the studio. Whether you're in textiles, ceramics, jewellery, print, or another creative field—if you’re ready to go bigger and bolder, this is for you.

Unlock new opportunities, discover the power of showcasing, and join a growing community of Irish creatives who are thinking globally.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER