'Major milestone' as Limerick's Film Lab brings together international producers

Initiative brings together 18 producers from Ireland, Canada, and Scotland, in an effort to foster new partnerships

Speed-networking at Limerick Film Lab. Pictures: Céline Mermier

A film lab has been launched in Limerick, bringing together 18 producers from Ireland, Canada, and Scotland, in an effort to foster new partnerships.

Described as a “major milestone” for the Mid-West’s film industry, the Limerick Film Lab was launched at the Engine Collaboration Centre on Monday.

Organised by Innovate Limerick through Film in Limerick, the initiative aims to support experienced producers and foster new co-production partnerships between the three countries.

Regional film manager for Film in Limerick Paul C Ryan; Limerick City West councillor Maria O'Donoghue; screen officer at Screen Scotland Leslie Finlay; and industry development manager at Picture NL (Canada) Jennifer Dempsey at the launch of the Limerick Film Lab. 

Running until July 9, the programme features keynote speakers, case studies, and networking opportunities that support producers in developing creative and financial partnerships, while deepening their understanding of the international co-production landscape.

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

This is a huge opportunity for our regional producers to step onto the international stage and collaborate on stories that travel.

Participants were selected from across Ireland's regions, from Scotland, and Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada, with each region represented by six producers.

The Lab provides a space for these producers to explore new creative relationships and potential future feature film collaborations.

The initiative is delivered in partnership with Screen Scotland and Picture NL (Newfoundland and Labrador’s film agency), with additional support from Limerick and Clare Education and Training Board, Screen Ireland, Screen Producers Ireland, and Limerick City and County Council.

Screen officer at Screen Scotland Leslie Finlay, said: “This international co-production lab in Limerick represents a powerful opportunity for creative exchange. Initiatives like this are essential to strengthening the future of independent film on an international scale.”