About Elevate

Elevate is a dynamic 4 year initiative designed to strengthen the IADT Research and Innovation Office.

The primary goal of TU RISE ELEVATE is to cultivate a dynamic research and innovation ecosystem for the creative and cultural sector and industries (CCSI). This four-year programme is designed to propel Ireland to the forefront of the sector and solidify IADT as a global leader in creative research and innovation in the CCSI.

 

Research for social change

With the support from the TU RISE programme, our initial emphasis will focus on Screen, Design and Policy for the Creative industries, bolstered by overarching themes of sustainable innovation and Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI).

The overall motivation of the ELEVATE project aligns with the scope and outcomes of TU RISE and European and National strategies as it seeks to establish and grow a dedicated research and innovation office, amply research and innovation for the creative industries and broaden IADT’s engagement with regional enterprises, with a particular focus on SMEs. IADT is ready to take the next big step in our vision to be Ireland’s campus for the creative industries.

Innovation

Creative industries analysis

Creative industries analysis examines how sectors such as film, design, media, and cultural production contribute to innovation, economic growth, and social impact. It involves mapping trends, identifying opportunities, and addressing challenges in areas like sustainability, diversity, and policy. By exploring the connections between creativity, technology, and society, this analysis provides valuable insights that inform strategy, support industry development, and strengthen the role of the creative industries as a driver of cultural and social progress.

Research leadership development

Research leadership development focuses on nurturing the skills, vision, and expertise needed to guide innovative projects and shape the future of creative research. Through the Creation Bridge programme, Leads will play a central role in expanding knowledge and driving impact across at least one of three key areas: Screen, Design, and Policy. By fostering collaboration, encouraging new methodologies, and building strong research networks, this initiative supports the growth of a vibrant research culture that connects academic inquiry with industry, society, and cultural practice.

Innovate vision lab

The Innovate Vision Lab is a dynamic space where creativity meets cutting-edge technology, providing researchers, students, and industry partners with access to state-of-the-art tools and facilities. It serves as a hub for experimentation and collaboration, enabling the exploration of new ideas in screen production, design innovation, and emerging digital practices. By combining advanced technologies with creative vision, the lab fosters groundbreaking projects that push boundaries, inspire innovation, and shape the future of the creative industries.

Events

Upcoming events will bring together creative practitioners, researchers, and industry leaders to share knowledge, spark collaboration, and showcase innovation across the creative industries. From workshops and masterclasses to conferences and public talks, these events provide opportunities to explore emerging trends, engage with new ideas, and build professional networks. By fostering dialogue and connection, our events help inspire creativity, support career development, and strengthen the links between research, practice, and industry.

EDI

Our commitment to Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) ensures that all voices are valued, respected, and supported within the creative industries and research community. We focus on creating equitable opportunities, promoting diverse perspectives, and fostering an inclusive environment where innovation and creativity can thrive. Through policies, initiatives, and collaborative practices, EDI underpins our work, helping to build a more representative, accessible, and socially responsible creative ecosystem.

Shaping Futures

Ethical screen practices and responsible content creation produce beneficial outcomes for society, forging pathways to a more cohesive future. Critical design methodologies lever imaginative and daring problem-solving approaches to the biggest challenges facing society, such as Climate Change. Creative approaches to leadership produce an informed and persuasive model for policy making, impacting significant challenges facing the CCSI in such areas as EDI and Sustainability. The foundation for nurturing, and shaping the above, is IADT’s demonstrable excellence in Psychology, Technology and Critical Humanities research in Art, Design, Performance, Screen and Textual Histories and Theories, Visual, Material, Public and Popular Cultures. This transdisciplinary, interdisciplinary, and profoundly collaborative ecosystem is powered by the multifaceted and nuanced approaches emancipated when rigorous creative practices and critical research combine.

More news and updates

Dún Laoghaire Institute of Art, Design and Technology (IADT) is excited to welcome businesses and creative professionals to our Industry Day on May 28th

On 4 February, the Elevate Team hosted a session in IADT’s DMB to meet staff and share info on TU RISE funding, the Pure Platform, the Elevate Toolkit, and the Researcher Handbook

An inspiring evening of conversation and connection unfolded at The Female Founders Event