BIMM Music Institute Dublin has announced a new partnership with Aiken Promotions to launch The Jim Aiken Scholarship, a prestigious award that honours one of Ireland’s most influential figures in live music.
The late Jim Aiken (1932–2007) was a pioneering promoter who revolutionised Ireland’s live music industry. As the founder of Aiken Promotions, he was instrumental in bringing major international artists to Irish stages, establishing Ireland as a sought-after destination for world-class performances. This scholarship celebrates Aiken’s legacy and aims to support emerging talent with aspirations of shaping the future of the live music scene.
Founded in 1962, Aiken Promotions is Ireland’s largest independent music promoter, known for staging everything from intimate club shows to large-scale stadium events. Its festival portfolio includes All Together Now, Forbidden Fruit, Live at the Marquee, Iveagh Gardens, and In the Meadows. The company also played a key role in co-organising Electric Picnic in its early years.
Launching for students commencing their studies in September 2025, this scholarship offers full tuition fees for one successful applicant to the Foundation Diploma in Music Business at BIMM Dublin.
Eligibility Criteria:
Applicants must apply for the course and complete an audition.
Open to Irish or EU citizens with home fee status.
Alan Cullivan, Campus Dean at BIMM Dublin, shared:
“It is an absolute honour to announce this new scholarship with Aiken Promotions. Aiken has supported artists at every stage of their careers, including emerging Irish talent. Since BIMM opened in Dublin in 2011, Aiken has been a vital partner in our live events, and it’s fitting to now formalise that relationship through a scholarship that celebrates shared values and a passion for developing the next generation of music industry professionals.”
James Aiken of Aiken Promotions added:
“This scholarship recognises Jim’s legacy and supports new talent aiming to build a future in the live music industry.”
For more information on the Jim Aiken Scholarship and how to apply, visit BIMM's official website.
