Funding boost for craft and design week

Ahead of the annual Kilkenny Irish Craft and Design Week, hopes are high that with a threefold increase in funding, this year’s event will promote ‘Brand Ireland’ like never before.

After a tough couple of years for the sector, the Kilkenny Group is hoping the increased investment in its showcase of Irish designers will engage consumers with indigenous designers to a greater degree than in previous years.

Funding for this year’s event, which takes place from October 6-12, has trebled from €25m to €75m, thanks in part to the group striking a sponsorship deal with insurance company Axa.