Here’s why you should head to Kilkenomics in November 2017

As Kilkenomics is set to take place in November 2017, we talk to Naoise Nunn, the festival’s Program Director to know more about the event and a new initiative that may get your idea an investment to start up!

When and where is it on?

Kilkenomics takes place in Kilkenny city, Ireland on the second weekend of November every year, that’ll be 9th – 12th November, 2017.

How many years has it been going?

The first event was in 2010, so this is the 8th.

What was the inspiration to start it?

As the financial crisis hit Ireland particularly hard in 2010 and the IMF/ ECB/ EC Troika arrived to take charge of the country’s finances, David McWilliams and Richard Cook hatched a plan to try and get economists and commentators to explain in lay-man’s language about what was going on. David had done a live show about economics in an almost stand-up comedy format and Richard had founded the Cat Laughs Comedy Festival in Kilkenny in 1995. It seemed like a crazy idea. It was. But it worked and continues to work!

What exciting things can people look forward to for the 2017 version?

Former Greek Finance Minister Yanis Varoufakis will talk about his life since getting shafted by the EU, philosopher John Gray as well as father and daughter duo Harald and Pippa Malmgren who have served as advisers to no fewer than 5 US Presidents will be there too.

What opportunities are on offer for people / startups / investors and companies attending?

There is a new initiative called Pitchonomics in which companies are invited to pitch to a panel of experts with the chance of winning up to €100,000 in investment for their idea or company.

What tips would you give to people attending to get the most out of it?

Many shows are just 60 minutes long, so there’s a chance to make it across town from one venue to another. Try and fit in as much as possible and enjoy it!

How can people book tickets / when does it usually sell out?

www.kilkenomics.com and our box office on John Street in Kilkenny which opens two weeks before the festival.

Anything else you’d like to add / we should have asked?

Enjoy Kilkenny’s medieval streetscape and visitor experiences like the Smithwick’s Brewery, Kilkenny Castle, Rothe House and St Canice’s Cathedral as well as the Medieval Mile Museum, all at the heart of Ireland’s Ancient East.

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