The Creative Business Cup Ireland programme is returning for 2026, with CREW continuing as Ireland’s national partner in collaboration with the Western Development Commission (WDC).
The programme will identify one outstanding creative business to represent Ireland at the Creative Business Cup Global Finals, where entrepreneurs from around the world showcase innovative ideas, build international connections and compete on an international stage.
Delivered by CREW, the programme will support a cohort of shortlisted creative businesses from across Ireland, helping them strengthen their business proposition before selecting the national winner. This year’s initiative builds on the momentum created by the Start-Up & Immersive exhibition at EDGE26 and reflects the continued growth of Ireland’s creative industries.
Ireland has built a strong reputation within the Creative Business Cup network through the success of its recent representatives.
Grá Chocolates, the 2024 Irish winner, is an award-winning luxury chocolate company founded by pastry chef Gráinne Mullins. Known for combining Irish ingredients, bold flavours and contemporary design, the business has gained international recognition for its premium handcrafted chocolates and has continued to grow its export and retail presence since representing Ireland.
In 2025, Starilum represented Ireland at the Creative Business Cup Global Finals, securing an impressive third-place finish. Starilum transforms music and catalogue data into visuals and immersive experiences to boost engagement and unlock new revenues for clients.
Following the competition, Starilum expanded its international profile through participation in European open innovation programmes and engagement with new industry partners.
The Creative Business Cup Ireland programme supports CREW’s Strategy 2025–2029 by fostering entrepreneurship, innovation and internationalisation within Ireland’s creative sector. It also aligns with the Western Development Commission’s commitment to strengthening regional enterprise and showcasing the depth of creative talent and innovation across the country.
The 2026 Creative Business Cup Ireland winner will be announced in early August before travelling to Copenhagen to represent Ireland at the Creative Business Cup Global Finals, which takes place as part of TechBBQ on 26_27th August 2026.
