Ireland’s creative industries are set to benefit from a significant new investment with the launch of ELEVATE, a landmark four-year initiative from the Institute of Art, Design + Technology (IADT). Officially launched by Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, James Lawless TD, the initiative aims to build a world-class research and innovation ecosystem that will drive growth and resilience in Ireland’s creative economy.
Backed by €3.6 million in funding under the Government and EU-supported TU RISE programme, ELEVATE is designed to expand IADT’s research capacity, deepen collaboration with SMEs, and stimulate regional innovation across a range of creative sectors including screen production, design, cultural policy, and enterprise development.
“This initiative is not just about building capacity at IADT, it’s about positioning Ireland at the forefront of creative innovation,” said Minister Lawless. “ELEVATE reflects the strategic goals of the TU RISE programme, supporting regional enterprise, enhancing research infrastructure, and future-proofing our economy through creative excellence.”
Central to the initiative are four “Creation Bridges” focused on advancing research and innovation in areas such as animation, immersive media, UX/UI design, cultural entrepreneurship, and evidence-based policy. The programme also embeds key values of sustainability, equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI), ensuring it aligns with national and EU policy objectives.
“ELEVATE marks a defining moment for IADT as we pursue our strategic ambition to become Ireland’s university for the creative industries,” said David Smith, President of IADT. “This programme energises our research culture, embeds innovation across disciplines, and deepens our engagement with industry to deliver real-world impact.”
A major part of ELEVATE will be the development of an Innovation Vision Lab and a cutting-edge Virtual Production facility. The programme also involves collaborations with prominent organisations such as Accenture Song, NIBRT, and Beats Medical. In addition, it will support academic residencies, structured PhDs, postdoctoral research, and industry fellowships to foster a strong talent pipeline for Ireland’s creative sector.
“Creative industries already contribute nearly 9% of national employment and are among the most resilient sectors in Europe,” Minister Lawless added. “Through ELEVATE, IADT is helping to shape the next generation of creative leaders, innovators, and entrepreneurs who will define Ireland’s place on the global stage.”
Running from 2024 to 2027, ELEVATE is a key pillar of IADT’s Strategic Plan 2024–2028 and represents a transformative step in building Ireland’s future as a leader in creative innovation.
