Upskilling the Film and Literature Tourism Industry with Immersive and Digital Skills
This summer, Feltech Ireland proudly hosted two UPLIFT Mini Launch Events — bringing together educators, creators, and tourism professionals to explore how immersive storytelling can shape the future of film and literary tourism in Ireland.
Held at The Food Hub, Drumshanbo (16 July 2025) and the Roscommon Community Centre (7 August 2025), both events celebrated local creativity and the growing potential of digital innovation in cultural tourism.
About the UPLIFT Project
UPLIFT (Unlocking the Potential of Immersive Tourism) is an Erasmus+ project that connects partners across Europe to explore how film, literature, and digital technologies can be combined to create immersive visitor experiences.
From virtual storytelling to interactive trails and cinematic heritage tours, UPLIFT aims to inspire entrepreneurs, educators, and destination managers to reimagine the way stories are told — and experienced.
Visit: https://uplifttourism.eu
Primary Objective: Launching the UPLIFT Research Report & Compendium
The core purpose of both mini-launches was to officially introduce the new UPLIFT Research Report and Compendium of Case Studies and Best Practices, a Europe-wide resource showcasing how immersive storytelling and creative technologies are transforming tourism experiences.
This compendium highlights outstanding film, literary, and digital tourism models from across Europe — inspiring educators, entrepreneurs, and cultural organisations to design innovative and sustainable visitor experiences.
Explore the full report here: Immersive Tourism Insights – Research & Best Practices
Event Highlights
Both Irish mini-launch events were designed to spark dialogue between creative minds, tourism enterprises, and educators eager to explore immersive tourism opportunities.
At the Drumshanbo event, discussions centred around the role of rural creativity and storytelling in developing Leitrim’s growing cultural tourism scene. Participants explored how film, literature, and digital storytelling can strengthen rural economies and attract new audiences to lesser-known destinations.
Meanwhile, the Roscommon event expanded the conversation across the midlands — focusing on the power of immersive experiences to revitalise local attractions, connect visitors with heritage stories, and support the creative economy.
Who Attended
Participants included:
- Film and literature tourism educators and researchers
- Local creative entrepreneurs and SMEs
- Destination management organisations (DMOs) and local authorities
- Students, content creators, and tourism innovation networks
Each event provided a space for networking, collaboration, and inspiration, encouraging new ideas for future pilot projects and digital learning opportunities.
Key Takeaways
- Ireland is rich in creative talent and storytelling heritage that can power immersive tourism.
- There is strong interest among educators and SMEs in learning how to integrate XR, AR, and narrative design into visitor experiences.
- Regional cooperation — from Leitrim to Roscommon — is essential for growing Ireland’s immersive tourism ecosystem.
- The UPLIFT platform offers free access to educational materials, best practices, and European examples to guide innovation.
What’s Next
Feltech Ireland will continue engaging regional stakeholders and supporting local case studies for immersive tourism pilots.
Partners are now preparing for the UPLIFT training resources and compendium launch, designed to help educators and entrepreneurs develop skills in storytelling, technology, and sustainable tourism.
Stay connected at uplifttourism.eu and follow the conversation on social media using #UPLIFTtourism #CreativeIreland #ImmersiveTourism.
About Feltech Ireland
Feltech Ireland is an active partner in the UPLIFT Erasmus+ project, promoting digital education, immersive storytelling, and sustainable tourism innovation across Ireland and Europe.
Through community events, creative workshops, and collaboration with local enterprises, Feltech champions Ireland’s creative future — one story at a time.
Written by Laura Magan
Feltech Ireland