Cork County Council is inviting applications for the Creative Start-Up Scheme 2026, which supports artists, designers and craftspeople to set up creative retail spaces across the county. The scheme is part of the Council’s ongoing work to bring new life and creativity into town and village centres.

The scheme is funded by Creative Ireland, the national programme that connects people, creativity, and wellbeing, and supports cultural activity across communities.

The 2026 Creative Start-Up Scheme is open to proposals for:

• Temporary or seasonal pop-up shops in vacant retail spaces
• Small retailers wishing to grow their space or include more artists and makers in their offering

Successful projects can receive up to €5,000, along with business supports and mentoring from the Local Enterprise Office. Applications will be assessed through a competitive process.

An online information session will take place on Wednesday, 13th May at 1.00pm. To register, email creativeireland@corkcoco.ie.

The deadline for applications is Friday, 5th June at 5.00pm. 

Please note that the details of events listed above are provided by the relevant Local Authorities.