DS3 is a major PEACEPLUS-funded project building more connected smart towns and villages using digital inclusion, innovation, community connectivity and cross‑border collaboration.
The project is led by ICBAN (Irish Central Border Area Network), with partners in Armagh City Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council, Cavan County Council, Donegal County Council, Leitrim County Council, Mid Ulster District Council, Monaghan County Council, Sligo County Council, Western Development Commission and delivery by Southern Regional College and Ulster University.
DS3 focuses on rural settlements (populations under 18,000), helping small to medium enterprises (SMEs), community groups and residents gain access to mentoring, training and cutting‑edge technologies.
DS3 will deliver three interconnected parts, with opportunities for business, communities and individuals:
Part 1 provides digital champions, skills mentoring and workshops for SMEs, community groups and individuals.
Opportunities include:
- 1-1 mentoring with a digital champion.
- Businesses advice & guidance with a digital mentor.
- 25 action-learning workshops.
This package will cover areas such as cloud transition, e-commerce, digital marketing, analytics, cyber security, video/podcast skills and more.
Mentoring, guidance and workshops are now available: sign up here.
Part 2 brings cutting-edge technology directly into rural settings, removing barriers to access.
Opportunities include:
Mobile Fab Lab
Explore prototype development, digital fabrication and creative design.
- 3D printers, scanners, virtual reality, robotics, laser cutting, CNC (computer numerical control) machines etc.
Mobile Multimedia Lab
Access cutting edge multimedia tools that help bring ideas to life.
- Podcasting, video creation, 360° multimedia, digital storytelling, VR Drone equipment, etc.
Digital Community Platform
A Community‑led design supporting “smart town” transformation.
- A shared digital platform for 14 towns/villages in the cross-border region.
Find out when the mobile labs are visiting your area by using the contact details below.
Part 3 focuses on lasting digital transformation strategies for the project region.
Opportunities include:
- A co-design process through in-depth engagement.
- Creation of three Action-Oriented Smart Place Frameworks to guide future digital levelling‑up.
Legacy will begin in late 2027 – contact us using the details below for more information.
You can change your mind at any time by unsubscribing in any email you receive or by contacting us.
