Students show their business flair in festive market
Students from across County Carlow took part in a festive market in The Exchange, organised by the local enterprise office
THE EXCHANGE in Carlow was alive with festive cheer and entrepreneurial spirit as the Student Enterprise Christmas Fair took place earlier in December. This annual event, part of the Local Enterprise Office’s Student Enterprise Programme (SEP), brought together secondary schools from across the county, including Coláiste Eoin, Presentation College, St Leo’s College, Tyndall College, Tullow Community School, Presentation De La Salle and Coláiste Aindriú.
The fair was a resounding success, showcasing the creativity, innovation and business acumen of Carlow’s talented students. Over 22 stalls managed by enterprising students offered a delightful array of handmade gifts, festive treats, artisanal products and creative services. Attendees enjoyed Christmas songs while supporting the next generation of local business leaders.
The Student Enterprise Christmas Fair is part of the broader Student Enterprise Awards, Ireland’s largest and most successful student enterprise programme, coordinated by the network of Local Enterprise Offices. Each year, the programme engages over 26,000 second-level students nationwide, helping them to develop key entrepreneurial skills by starting and managing their own businesses. The initiative supports students throughout the academic year, culminating in regional and national competitions that celebrate the creativity, hard work and business acumen of Ireland’s young entrepreneurs.
Over the two days, the Carlow fair attracted a significant number of visitors. Student-led businesses generated substantial sales, providing students with invaluable hands-on experience in entrepreneurship.
