Creative Spark's FabLab launches in Dundalk

The Creative Spark Enterprise FabLab, was formally launched yesterday afternoon in Dundalk.

The Enterprise FabLab aims to provide professionals, SMEs, innovators and makers in the Northeast region with access to equipment, support and training in digital design and advanced fabrication.

By connecting with the global FabLab community, spanning 100 countries, Creative Spark Enterprise FabLab serves as a centre for digital design and fabrication knowledge-sharing and innovation.

Creative Spark Enterprise FabLab provides:

l Cutting-Edge Workspace: offering state-of-the-art technologies, including laser cutters, 3D printers, CNC routers, electronics workbenches, and power tools. Members can design, prototype, and fabricate under one roof, fostering creativity and collaboration.

l Comprehensive Training: The FabLab leads in delivering innovation, design, and Industry 4.0 training. It offers courses in digital design, fabrication, manufacturing, electronics, programming, and prototyping. The training aligns with the global FabLab network.

l Access to Equipment: Enterprise FabLab provides members with state-of-the-art equipment, software, and shared working space. Memberships are available at daily, monthly, or annual rates, enabling members to work on their projects and prototypes efficiently.

l Mobile FabLab Extension: Creative Spark Enterprise FabLab extends its reach through a fully equipped Mobile FabLab. This mobile unit can visit offices, studios, and business parks, engaging the community in digital prototyping and manufacturing.

l Building a Design Cluster: The FabLab aims to develop a community of stakeholders from the design, creative industries, innovation, manufacturing, and enterprise sectors. Collaboration at regional and national levels will foster the establishment of a Product Design Cluster.

Welcoming the launch of the new Creative Spark Enterprise FabLab, Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Simon Coveney, TD said:

“I want to commend the entire team behind this fantastic new facility that my Department has been delighted to support with over €770,000 in funding through the Regional Enterprise Development Fund and the Regional Enterprise Transition Scheme.

“The Creative Spark FabLab is focused on nurturing the next generation of Irish innovation that can compete and win in global markets. It has the capacity to make a tremendous impact on the manufacturing and design ecosystem in the North-East and act as a creative hub for the talents across the region and facilitate collaboration.

“Today is the culmination of an exciting journey that will deliver real benefits to enterprises across the North-East and contribute to the creation of high-quality jobs in innovative companies.”

"We are excited to launch Creative Spark Enterprise FabLab, offering professionals and makers access to cutting-edge digital fabrication technology and a highly-skilled team," said Sarah Daly, Executive Director of Creative Spark. "Our goal is to foster a vibrant community of creators, designers, and innovators while driving collaboration and establishing a Product Design Cluster."

Aidan McKenna, Enterprise Ireland Regional Manager for the North East said,

“Enterprise Ireland has been proud to support Creative Spark on both its Downtown co-working hub and the new state-of-the-art Enterprise FabLab. The team at Creative Spark are committed to supporting innovation and creative skill development in the North-East region and ensuring that they have the facilities necessary to drive their ambition.

“The Regional Enterprise Development Fund, administered by Enterprise Ireland, is designed to support that goal and we are delighted to see the new Enterprise FabLab formally opened today.”