Galway City Council and CREW proudly announce the launch of the CreaTech Entrepreneurship Explorer Programme, an innovative incubation programme for early-stage digital creative entrepreneurs.
This new incubator programme focuses on the growing Digital Creative Industries, aiming to fast-track entrepreneurial success through mentorship, industry-specific workshops, and access to CREW’s Creative Enterprise & Innovation Hub and network. Supported by Local Enterprise Office Galway and industry stakeholders, the Explorer Programme offers a unique opportunity for participants to refine, test, and validate their business ideas in a supportive, creative environment.
Catering to the needs of the digital design, digital games, and content creation sectors, the Explorer programme will run from July to December, both online and in-person, from CREW’s Creative Enterprise & Innovation Hub in Galway City.
Participants will benefit from short courses and masterclasses covering essential aspects of venture development for digital creative industry start-ups, including market research, business model validation, financial planning, intellectual property, and future trends. The programme includes hands-on workshops, expert-led seminars, and one-on-one coaching sessions, ensuring tailored guidance for each participant to advance their ventures.
Building on CREW’s successful CEED (Creative Entrepreneurship & Enterprise Development) programme, delivered with ATU (Atlantic Technological University), the Explorer Programme responds to the growing demand for robust support within the Digital Creative Industries. It aligns with the Digital Creative Industries Roadmap 2024-26 and Galway City’s Local Economic and Community Plan (LECP), highlighting the economic potential of this sector.
The CreaTech Entrepreneurship Explorer Programme marks a significant milestone in bolstering the region’s digital creative industries, showcasing Galway City Council’s commitment to innovation and economic growth, highlighting the pivotal role that the creative industries play in the local and regional economy.
Niamh Costello, CEO of CREW, said, “CREW’s focus is on the business of creativity. We are thrilled to introduce the Entrepreneurship Explorer Programme in partnership with Galway City Council. The Explorer Programme expands our efforts to support start-ups in the digital creative industries sector. This initiative reflects our commitment to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship, providing early-stage digital creatives with the resources, mentorship, and collaborative environment they need to succeed.”
Elizabeth Fanning, Acting Director of Services at Galway City Council, added, “Supporting the development of digital creative enterprises is essential to our vision for a vibrant and innovative economy. The CreaTech Entrepreneurship Explorer Programme is a critical investment in our future, ensuring that we continue to nurture the next generation of creative entrepreneurs.”
Applications for the Entrepreneurship Explorer Programme are now open. Digital creatives with innovative ideas and who meet the eligibility criteria are encouraged to apply. The application process aims to identify individuals with the potential to develop successful creative businesses. The Explorer programme is expected to attract a diverse group of participants, contributing to a thriving creative ecosystem.
Applications are now open. For more information on the programme structure, application requirements, and deadlines, visit www.crewdigital.ie/programmes/explorer-programme
About CREW:
CREW (Creative Enterprise West) is focused on the business of creativity, empowering digital creative start-ups and SMEs to develop and scale globally. With a track record of successful programmes and initiatives, CREW is committed to driving innovation and job growth within the creative sector.
About Galway City Council:
Galway City Council is committed to fostering economic development and community well-being through strategic initiatives and partnerships. By supporting programmes like the CreaTech Entrepreneurship Explorer Programme, the Council aims to create a sustainable and prosperous future for all residents. Culture and creativity are a fundamental part of Galway’s identity both nationally and internationally. The city has a strong cultural tradition and vibrant arts scene with a well-established arts community contributing to the vitality of the city and a significant component of the city’s tourism offering. Arts and creativity also contribute to the creative economy, a rapidly growing sector in the city with positive impacts on education, health and wellbeing. Galway is a creative city where everybody matters.