AIM Connects

AIM Ireland has announced the return of AIM Connects, its annual summit for the independent music sector, with the 2026 edition set to take place at Whelan’s, Dublin, on Wednesday 27 May.

Bringing together voices from across the Irish and international independent music business, AIM Connects 2026 will explore the business of music and the future of the independent sector through a programme of panels, presentations and keynote interviews. Topics set to feature include AI in music, artist development, live careers, management, independent campaign strategy, and the future of independent venues.

This year’s keynote interviews will feature Niamh Byrne, co-founder of Eleven Management and Chair of the UK’s Music Managers Forum, and Jay Pidgeon of Purple Wall Management. AIM says the summit is designed to bring together the conversations currently shaping the sector, from evolving technology and rights to how artists build long-term careers.

Confirmed speakers also include Chris Cooke, Ceri Dixon, Sheena Madden, Ryan Roe, Jordi Grant O’Rourke, Tracy Clifford, Niall Byrne, Simon Merriman, Donal McCarthy, Ray O’Donoghue, Chris Keena, Joe Clarke, Oskar Persson, Tanya Townsend and Finian Murphy, with more still to be announced.

Tickets are on sale now and are priced from €32.50 including booking fee. AIM members can access discounted tickets by contacting members@aimireland.ie.

AIM Connects 2026 is supported by Three Broadband and Merlin.