Boulder Media is one of the largest animation studios Ireland

Boulder Media is one of Ireland’s largest animation studios that since its inception has grown to become one of the first studios in Europe to produce adult genre animation for US prime time TV. The multi-nominated and award-winning company was founded in 2000. In 2016, the toymaker Hasbro acquired the company and in 2022 sold it to the Australian film company Princess Pictures, where it is now a wholly owned subsidiary. 
 

Drawing on its Irish origins

Boulder Media’s headquarters is in Ireland because it was founded in Dublin. The company currently employs 150 people, with a further 65 overseas, with plans to expand its animation crew to more than 290 people by the end of Q1 2024. For the last two decades the studio, thanks to its reputation in the industry,has successfully recruited talent from around the globe. 

The company has worked with a roster of leading entertainment companies including Nickelodeon, Cartoon Network, BBC, Warner Bros, Disney and Bento Box. It counts more than two decades of established relationships with US majors, producing 2D and 3D content. During its partnership with Hasbro, the studio worked on entertainment projects supporting some of the toy giant’s leading brands such as Transformers, Littlest Pet Shop and Micronauts, as well as animated series on behalf of third-party clients.
 

Continued expansion from its Irish hub

Boulder Media continues to expand both the size and capability of the Dublin site, which will bring further job opportunities and technical advancements to the studio and the Irish animation industry.

Having a base in Europe assists in attracting European commissions, which is becoming more important within the industry. Additionally, the company is actively working to develop a global pipeline aimed at animating 24/7 around the world, with partner studios.

The studio is also considering opening a regional hub to attract Irish talent from other locations outside of Dublin city. In the longer term, it may also look at opening a hub in Northern Ireland or the UK mainland.
 

How Ireland Helps Boulder Media

• 200 skilled animators employed: 150 in Ireland and 50 worldwide
• 45% growth planned with target of 290 employed by Q1 2024
• Successfully recruits skilled talent from around the globe
• Second regional hub being explored