A number of micro-enterprises have used MicroTrade's Market Entry Funding of £1000 to support them in exhibiting at cross-border Trade Shows (Northern Ireland / Republic of Ireland only). If used correctly, Trade Shows are a great opportunity to explore the market potential of your products & services, and to gain valuable information on your customers and competitors.

The list below is not exhaustive and companies should conduct independent research on the relevant local Trade Shows for your sector.

Click here to access Enterprise Ireland's International Events Calendar.

Click here to access Invest Northern Ireland's International Events calendar.

Click here to access Enterprise Europe Network Events Calendar.

There is agreement between Enterprise Ireland and Invest Northern Ireland to allow companies from the opposite jurisdiction to participate on a number of Trade Missions. Both organisations offer funding and advice to companies looking to attend overseas trade shows.

You should also speak directly to your local County or City Enterprise Board, or Local Enterprise Agency in Northern Ireland. See local contact details here.

Tips on Optimising Trade Show attendance:

See Enterprise Ireland 's advice here , and NIBusinessInfo advice here .

Search lists of Trade Shows by sector, location etc:

FITA (The Federation of International Trade Associations) - contains extensive list.

BizTradeShows Directory

EventsEye Directory

We recommend that you conduct your own research on the quality of each Trade Show by speaking to past exhibitors, online forums etc. These lists are not complete and you should reseach Trade Shows specific to your needs and market sector.

Sample Trade Shows - RoI

Autumn Gift + Home Fair

RDS Simmonscourt, Dublin, 23rd - 26th August 2009.  www.autumngiftfair.com

Sample Trade Shows - NI

IFEX

Please email info@microtrade.org if you are aware of other appropriate Trade Shows on the island.