Enterprise Minister Peter Burke launches CREW’s 4-year strategy for digital creative enterprise in Ireland’s West and North West.
An ambitious new strategic plan aimed at boosting digital creative industries across Ireland’s western region has been unveiled.
The strategy, entitled “Where Creativity Means Business,” outlines CREW’s (Creative Enterprise West) vision for 2025-2029 and establishes a framework to strengthen the creative enterprise ecosystem in the region.
“Over the past year, we’ve laid strong foundations and built a vibrant, connected community. This strategy sets out our ambition to scale that impact and deepen collaboration”
Located at ATU (Atlantic Technological University) Galway City’s Wellpark Road campus, CREW has established itself as a leading innovation hub dedicated to growing digital creative industries.
The organisation has already supported 31 early-stage enterprises in 2024 through its incubation and enterprise development programs.
Engine for innovation and economic growth
“Ireland’s digital creative sector is a powerful engine for innovation and economic growth,” Minister Burke said at the launch event.
“Innovation hubs like CREW, supported by my Department through Enterprise Ireland, play a critical role in delivering regional impact by nurturing enterprise, supporting job creation, and developing skills aligned with local strengths.”
The newly launched strategy focuses on four key pillars: Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Enhancing Infrastructure and Resources, Industry Growth and Internationalisation, and Capacity for Continuing Impact. Through these strategic areas, CREW aims to drive creative enterprise growth, provide state-of-the-art facilities, support sectoral development, and ensure long-term sustainability.
Niamh Costello, CEO of CREW, highlighted the momentum behind the organisation’s work: “Over the past year, we’ve laid strong foundations and built a vibrant, connected community. This strategy sets out our ambition to scale that impact and deepen collaboration. We invite all stakeholders to join us in delivering this vision and securing a vibrant, sustainable future for the sector.”
Enterprise Ireland, a key supporter of CREW through the Regional Enterprise Development Fund, expressed confidence in the new strategy.
Carol Gibbons, Head of Entrepreneurship, Regions and Local Enterprise Office at Enterprise Ireland, noted: “In a short time, CREW has delivered real results for the creative sector. This strategy shows clear vision backed by strong regional partnerships.”
The strategy aligns with national SMART Specialisation objectives and Regional Enterprise Plans, positioning the West and North West of Ireland as a hub for film, animation, game development, design, and digital arts.
Paddy Tobin, chair of the CREW Board of Directors and Head of the School of Design & Creative Arts at Atlantic Technological University (ATU), described the strategy as “a milestone for CREW” that outlines “the long-term actions needed to realise that potential.”
Founded by the Western Development Commission and Atlantic Technological University (ATU), CREW continues to build partnerships that will help catalyse innovation, enterprise, and international growth in the sector.
The full strategy document is available on the CREW website here
Carol Gibbons, Head of Entrepreneurship, Regions and Local Enterprise Office at Enterprise Ireland; Minister for Enterprise Peter Burke, TD; and Niamh Costello, CEO of CREW
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