Irish Creative Business Cup – The Finalists
27th February 2024
Mersus Technologies, Script Guru by Mekkato Createch Studios, Wonky Woollins, Isolde and Grá Chocolates, were recently selected as the national finalists for the Irish Creative Business Cup.
CREW (Creative Enterprise West), a prominent advocate for innovative startups in the creative industries was announced as the Irish National Partner for the Global Creative Business Cup (CBC) in late 2023. This partnership was made possible through collaboration with the Western Development Commission.
The CBC is a renowned international startup competition spanning more than 60 countries, celebrating the synergy of innovation and entrepreneurship. It gives companies the opportunity to showcase their pioneering ventures to a global audience. The 5 Irish businesses selected will vie for the national Creative Business Cup title, with the opportunity to benefit from a Creative Business Development Programme in partnership with CREW and Creative Business Network (Denmark).
This programme includes virtual and in-person mentorship, masterclasses, and seminars with industry experts. CBC Ireland National Finals will take place in March 2024 at CREW’s new Innovation & Enterprise Hub in Galway. This inaugural event will include business pitches from all finalists, keynote speakers and a networking event.
The winner will represent Ireland in the Creative Business Cup Global Final in June in Denmark.
Speaking about the selection, Sarah Halpin, Isolde said “Being shortlisted for the Creative Business Cup is not just a milestone for Isolde; it is an acknowledgement of our commitment to transforming ideas into innovative and impactful experiences. This recognition fuels our passion to redefine possibilities and inspires us to continue pushing the boundaries of innovation.”
The selected businesses span across various sectors, all harnessing creative competencies within their business model, including immersive technologies, AI, textile design, audiovisual, design for social change, and artisan food production. The diverse range of applicants and finalists to CBC Ireland is a testament to the role of innovation and creative thinking amongst Irish start-ups.
Pictured: Creative Business Cup Finalists (image – Andrew Downes, Xposure)
