AIM Joins WDC’s New Landing Studio as Anchor Tenant – Applications Now Open

AIM Centre’s David Bermingham and Julie Dowling with Allan Mulrooney, CEO WDC

The Western Development Commission (WDC) has opened applications for its new Landing Studio at CREW, Galway, a purpose-built space designed to support creative enterprises and innovation-led startups across the West and Northwest. Launching in January 2026, the studio will provide dedicated workspace, specialist support and a collaborative environment for companies ready to experiment, innovate and scale.

At AIM, we are thrilled to join the Landing Studio as its anchor tenant, expanding our presence beyond Sligo and deepening our commitment to driving responsible innovation throughout the region.

Supporting Creativity, Technology and Regional Innovation

The Landing Studio is a pilot initiative offering regionally based creative businesses access to a high-quality shared innovation space. Located within CREW—Galway’s leading hub for creative enterprise—the studio will empower participating companies to:

• - Experiment with emerging technologies

• - Explore new creative and commercial possibilities

• - Collaborate across disciplines to develop new products and services

• - Build strong connections across the regional innovation ecosystem

The initiative aligns strongly with AIM’s mission to help organisations responsibly integrate AI and digital technologies into their work, unlocking new opportunities for growth across all sectors.

What Participating Companies Can Expect

Eight companies will be selected to join the Landing Studio and will receive support until the end of 2026, including:

• - Workspace: A dedicated desk within the Landing Studio for the entire programme duration

• - Tailored Support: Access to CREW’s and AIM’s combined networks, partners, programmes and resources

• - Expert Advisory Services: Strategic guidance from AIM on AI adoption, digital transformation and emerging technology projects

• - Collaboration Opportunities: Engagement with peers from technology, design and creative industries

• - Networking: Connections across the wider regional ecosystem, including potential clients, collaborators and mentors

AIM’s Role as Anchor Tenant

As the Landing Studio’s anchor tenant, AIM will bring deep expertise in artificial intelligence, design-led innovation and emerging technologies to the heart of Galway’s creative community. We are delighted to help shape a collaborative environment where creative and technology-focused enterprises can work side by side.

Our presence in the studio will enable participating companies to:

• - Access cutting-edge insight into AI and innovation

• - Integrate digital processes into creative and traditional business activities

• - Explore AI-enabled possibilities within their own products, services and workflows

• - Benefit from AIM’s ongoing programmes, research and strategic partnerships

While our home and headquarters remain in Sligo, expanding into Galway strengthens our commitment to supporting innovation across the entire West and Northwest.

Who Should Apply

The call is open to creative and innovation-driven enterprises across Sligo, Leitrim, Mayo, Roscommon, Galway, Clare and Donegal. Ideal applicants include:

• - Creative Enterprises: Digital design, animation, film, visual arts, music, immersive technology and other creative fields

• - Innovation-Focused Startups and SMEs: AI, machine learning, blockchain and other emerging technology ventures

• - Design-Led Innovators: Companies using design and technology to create impactful solutions across any sector

Apply Now

AIM is proud to support this initiative and excited to collaborate with the next wave of creativity and innovation emerging from the region.

Applications are now open for eight places in the Landing Studio.

Further Information

Full eligibility criteria and application details are available here. Please review before applying.

For queries about the Landing Studio or the application process, please contact: teresahooks@wdc.ie

How to Apply

Applications are submitted through an online application form via the link below.

Number of places available: 8
Who can apply: Creative enterprises and innovation-focused startups and SMEs based in Sligo, Leitrim, Mayo, Roscommon, Galway, Clare and Donegal
Application deadline: Friday, 19th December at 2 pm