Limerick Film Lab to promote West of Ireland as filming location

Participants will have the opportunity to take part in a series of workshops to stimulate creative partnerships, explore internationally focused business partnerships, and gain insights into each country's funding landscapes.

A film co-production lab in Limerick is set to bring together producers and companies from Canada, Ireland, and Scotland.

Innovate Limerick, through Film in Limerick, has announced the unique partnership that will serve as a dynamic space for creative exchange, fostering business opportunities across borders, and building lasting relationships between film producers from three culturally rich nations.

Taking place from July 7 at the Engine Collaboration Centre, Limerick Film Lab will be hosted in collaboration with Screen Scotland — the national agency for film in Scotland — and Picture NL, the lead agency for film in Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada.

The initiative will be focused on co-producing feature films in the West of Ireland and include case studies and keynote industry speakers, all focused on navigating international co-productions and developing high-quality global feature films.

Regional film manager Paul C Ryan said: “This lab is all about connection — not just between filmmakers, but between cultures, storytelling traditions, and industry ecosystems. 

It’s a huge opportunity to develop new business between the countries and to create work that can travel far beyond national borders

With the Limerick region emerging as a second major film hub outside of Dublin/Wicklow, Mr Ryan said the time “is right” to further develop regional producers, supporting them to work on a bigger stage with international partners and bigger budgets.

'Developing local producers'

“As well as our ability to service inward productions in the region with our wonderful facilities at Troy Studios and our growing crew base, the Mid-West is also focused on developing local producers and production companies who can develop their own IP [intellectual property] and attract finance for Irish and co-production projects. 

"Building strong links with Scotland and Canada will help regional producers to attract the partners and international finance needed to realise their growth ambitions,” he added.

The Limerick Film Lab is designed to encourage creative partnerships, with a particular focus on narrative feature film productions. Participants will have the opportunity to take part in a series of workshops to stimulate creative partnerships, explore internationally focused business partnerships, and gain insights into each country's funding landscapes.

Applications are now open for Irish delegates to join. Applicant producers must have a feature film in active development and be based in the regions (outside Dublin/Wicklow).

Applicants should send a one-page project document and an explanation of what they would gain from joining the lab.

Email applications to [e-mail] before the closing date, April 30.

The Limerick Film Lab is supported by Limerick and Clare Education and Training Board, Limerick City and County Council, and by international partners agencies, Screen Scotland and Picture NL. The initiative builds on Film in Limerick’s ongoing mission to position the Mid-West of Ireland as a hub for international screen collaboration and innovation.