DCCI held its Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Wednesday 10th June, bringing together members, stakeholders and supporters to reflect a year of achievements and to look ahead to the opportunities and priorities for the sector in the coming year.
The AGM highlighted a number of milestones from 2025 that demonstrated the strength and international reach of Irish design and craft. Among the year’s standout moments in this vein were the celebration of Showcase’s 50th year in January; hosting Orla Kiely’s ‘A Life in Pattern’ exhibition at the National Design & Craft Gallery; and DCCI’s participation in Collect 2025, the prestigious international fair for contemporary craft and design held at Somerset House in London. It was here in February that DCCI presented the work of 14 designer makers selected from the winners of the DCCI Future Makers awards and graduates of the Homo Faber Fellowship programme. The showcase provided a valuable international platform for Irish talent, with participating makers introducing new audiences to contemporary Irish craft and design. A defining point of the year came in May, when Ireland was selected as Country of Honour for Révélations 2027, the international fine craft and international biennial in Paris, at our inaugural presence at Révélations 2025.
This is a prestigious and rare distinction and a moment of huge pride for the entire sector. Members also heard updates on DCCI’s ongoing work to support their members and designers through professional development programmes, market development initiatives and opportunities that strengthen the visibility of Irish craft both nationally and internationally. Programmes including the Design Ireland pop-up at Arnotts; DCCI’s Irish Craft Village at Bord Bia Bloom; Gifted; Irish Design Week; Irish Business Design Challenge; David Shaw-Smith Legacy Award:Future Makers; and DCCI Academy courses support makers and designers throughout the year with opportunities to further their skills, sell their products, gain more visibility on their brand and the chance to win a nationally recognised award. The continued growth of Made Local and August Craft Month generated engagement for 1000’s of makers with consumers and the general public, nurturing the value of our homegrown talent.
The following individuals were elected to the Board:
- Imelda Connolly
- Kieran Molloy
- Cathy Burke
The AGM also acknowledged the contribution of outgoing board members, thanking them for their service and commitment to the organisation.
As DCCI continues to build on the momentum from 2025, the organisation remains focused on supporting collaboration, innovation and sustainability across the sector, while creating opportunities for Irish makers and designers to thrive at home and on the international stage.
Missed the highlights of DCCI 2025? Watch the DCCI 2025 recap video below and relive the key moments from events in 2025. From inspiring speakers and engaging discussions to valuable networking opportunities, the recap captures the energy, innovation, and achievements of Ireland’s design and craft community.
Watch DCCI 2025 RECAP
