€17m PEACEPLUS Funding to Boost Technology and Social Inclusion in Rural Areas
Exciting news for rural communities across Northern Ireland and the border counties of Ireland! The Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB) has announced a new call for applications under the PEACEPLUS programme, with €17.1 million of funding available to support technology and social inclusion initiatives.
In September 2024, three transformative projects were awarded over €10 million under the PEACEPLUS theme of Delivering Socio-Economic Regeneration and Transformation. Now, the remaining €17 million is up for grabs, and eligible organisations are encouraged to apply to the Smart Towns and Villages Investment Area.
A Smart Town or Village is a town, village, or rural community where technology is leveraged to achieve strategic goals such as economic growth, wellbeing, sustainability, environmental solutions, social inclusion, and cross-border relationships. This funding aims to enhance access to telecommunications and raise awareness in rural areas, fostering greater connectivity and community engagement.
The funding can support a variety of initiatives, including:
Mobile digital hubs
Mentoring programmes
Digital clusters
Social enterprise/innovation-led projects
Static digital hubs through the renovation of existing assets
Eligible project locations are limited to settlement areas with fewer than 18,000 inhabitants. By adopting an area-based approach, the programme aims to maximise the potential for more citizens and communities to access Information Communications Technology (ICT). This will enhance social service delivery and economic development in a sustainable and environmentally responsible manner.
PEACEPLUS is a €1.14 billion programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB). It is dedicated to promoting peace and prosperity by supporting projects that foster socio-economic regeneration and transformation.
Don't miss this incredible opportunity to make a lasting impact on your community. Apply now and help shape the future of rural areas across Northern Ireland and the border counties of Ireland!