2026 Craft Makers Peer Support Network

9 December 2025

Deadline: December 10, 2025

Newry, Mourne and Down Council & Go Succeed have partnered with Craft NI to offer a new year programme for craft makers in the area,  to plan next steps for their craft businesses and to strengthen maker networks in the area.

The four session programme is free to makers and will take place during January/February 2026 and is aimed at craft businesses who have been actively trading for at least 2-3 years. Priority will be given to makers based in the Newry, Mourne & Down Council area and areas close to there.  Applicants should be able to attend all four sessions.

This short programme aims to provide craft makers with a supportive peer network where they can develop and nurture opportunities to connect. Featuring insights from experienced creative industry trainers as well as established local makers, the programme will also link into Council Economic Development team and Craft NI to ensure makers can connect in to a range of resources for the longer term.

The programme will have no more than 10-12 craft makers taking part with lots of opportunities to learn and discuss issues for your own craft practice and business. Craft makers participating must come under Craft NI’s supported disciplines which you can find outlined here.

The four sessions will take place during January and February and will be a mixture of in-person and online. 

• Session 1 – Your Resilient Craft Business

  Led by David Crump from Cockpit Studios. During the session participants will take a holistic look at their practice, thinking about future vision and ambitions and the major steps needed to make progress towards them. We’ll look at the values underpinning your practice, and how they inform how you might want to engage with your audience. | Online | 8th January, 10am – 1pm

• Session 2 – Finding Your Customers
  In-person site visit with insights from guest makers more information to follow | In person at Garrett Mallon Design House, Carlingford | Date 15th January

• Session 3 – Craft NI Gallery, Your Marketing Plan
  Meet Craft NI staff for an informed session exploring the fundamentals of a marketing plan covering a range of channels. Insights from guest maker Stuart Cairns looking into his practice, retail ranges, exhibition pieces and working with galleries. | In person at the Craft NI Gallery | Date 5th February, 10am-1pm

• Session 4 – My Plan for 2026 led by Josh Watts, strategic consultant from Innovate_
  This final session is a facilitated, in-person action planning session reflecting on the programme and making realistic goals for you and your business in the year ahead. Officers from the Newry, Mourne and Down District Council will also be in attendance to present on further support and opportunities available to craft makers. | In person at the Burrendale Hotel | Date: 20th February. Lunch provided at 1pm, session to take place from 2-5pm.

Watch this space for further information on dates and venues, but make sure to apply here by 10^th December.