AIM Connects is Navigating the Future of Independent Music and Nightlife

AIM Ireland Connects is set to take over The Studio at Dublin’s National Concert Hall tomorrow, May 8th, 2025, for a full day of panels, presentations, and industry discussions to shape the future of Ireland’s independent music scene and night-time economy.

Presented by AIM Ireland and supported by IRMA, Dublin City Council, and Merlin, the event will bring together a wide range of voices from across the industry spectrum, including artists, managers, promoters, venue operators, policy makers, and academics.

The flagship seminar will address pressing challenges and emerging opportunities within the independent music sector through a curated schedule of talks and debates. Topics on the table include artist management strategies, breaking into the charts, and developing sustainable careers in nightlife. The event will also explore long-term shifts in the music landscape, reflecting on over two decades of change across the European industry.

AIM Ireland Connects places strong emphasis on innovation and solution-driven thinking, aiming to equip attendees with actionable insights and tools to thrive in today’s evolving industry landscape. With a combination of grassroots voices and global perspectives, the event is positioned to spark meaningful dialogue and foster practical change across Ireland’s independent and night-time sectors.

The speaker lineup includes a diverse mix of contributors from Ireland and beyond. Confirmed participants include:

– Damian Corless [Journalist & Author, Tax, Drugs and Rock N Roll]
– Eamonn Forde [Journalist & Author, The Final Days Of EMI: Selling The Pig]
– Chris Cooke [Co-founder of Unlimited Media & journalist with Complete Music Update]
– Dr. Caroline O’Sullivan [Head of School of Media, TU Dublin]
– Lutz Leichsenring [Vibe Lab Berlin]
– Merlijn Poolman [Spokesperson & Founder, Dutch Nighttime Alliance]
– Mike Grieve [Sub Club, Glasgow]
– Robbie G [Belters Only]
– Kate Howard [Night-Time Economy Advisor, Galway]
– Ray O’Donoghue [Night-Time Economy Advisor, Dublin City]
– Lisa Connell [Co-founder, Mother]
– Ryan Roe [Creative Director, District X]
– Caroline Henry [Management for Hozier and Lyra]
– Joe Clarke [CWB Management]
– Ken Allen [Faction Records]
– Jim Lawless [Manager, The Coronas]
– Willie Ryan [Music Lawyer and Manager]

You can purchase tickets here.