Programmes & Opportunities

benchspace partners with local and national organisations to promote the development of inclusive, locally rooted and sustainable creative enterprises.

Creative Enterprise Programme

We know there’s more to running a creative business than being creative. Supported by Enterprise Ireland the benchspace Creative Enterprise Programme gives makers the tools they need to turn an idea or skill into a successful creative startup. Through a series of enterprise workshops, peer networking, mentorship and industry-engagement opportunities the programme helps makers navigate all aspects of product design, production, costing, branding, presentation and promotion.
Enterprise Ireland

Design - Build Partnerships​

benchspace partners with Cork’s charity, social enterprise and community organisations to help them realise their own manufacturing projects. Working together, we have completed large scale builds to enhance the streetscape of Cork City, annual design-festival installations, and custom commissions. These collaborations have the dual impact of delivering community-focussed build projects, while supporting the development of new careers for Cork’s upcoming makers and craftspeople. Check out our made@benchspace portfolio to see how we can help your organisation.

Open Making​

As part of our objective to increase public engagement in Irish design and creative manufacturing we offer regular, maker-led, open access to our workshops in the form of Open Making sessions. These public drop-in events provide informal opportunities for the making-curious and would-be creatives to interact with professional makers and discover pathways into making. If you would like to sign up for one of our Open Making sessions, or if you’re a professional maker interested in volunteering, please get in contact.