Rural community organizations in Ireland now have the opportunity to boost their digital ecosystems thanks to a new funding program called RISE. Established by Granahan McCourt and NBI Chairman David McCourt, RISE provides monthly grants to support innovative projects across the country. The program is also backed by corporate sponsors including KN Circet, KPMG, Test Triangle, DreamDev Technologies, and TLI Group.
One of the beneficiaries of the €1,000 grant is Sylvester Bourke and his company, Sylvester Bourke Farming Unlimited. They are utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to analyze data gathered through drone surveys on their farm. By embracing innovation and technology, Bourke aims to enhance sustainable food production and improve farming methods.
Shuttle Knit CLG, another grant recipient, is expanding its online shopping capabilities to reach a wider community of customers. This expansion will enable the company to connect with more people and grow its business.
In addition, Wicklow Men’s Shed has received a grant to provide computing equipment for its members, while the Multiple Sclerosis Society of Ireland (Wicklow regional office) will use the funding to move physiotherapy programs online, making them more accessible.
RISE aims to encourage community groups, charities, small businesses, and social enterprises in rural areas to leverage technology to maximize their impact. By implementing innovative technologies such as artificial intelligence, these organizations can enhance their operations and deliver more effective outcomes.
David McCourt, founder of RISE and Chairman of Granahan McCourt and NBI, expressed his excitement about the projects supported by the fund. He emphasized the importance of technology in driving positive change and commended the innovative use of artificial intelligence in various initiatives.
NBI CEO Peter Hendrick highlighted the significance of connectivity in rural areas. While NBI is working on providing high-speed broadband to over 1.1 million people in rural Ireland, Hendrick acknowledged that connectivity alone cannot solve all the challenges faced by businesses, community groups, and social enterprises. This is why the RISE Community Fund is so crucial in supporting these organizations and celebrating their use of technology to make a difference in the local community and wider economy.
To find out if their home, farm, or business is included in the National Broadband Plan and receive updates on the rollout, residents of Wicklow are encouraged to visit the NBI website at nbi.ie.
FAQ
1. What is RISE?
RISE is a funding program established by Granahan McCourt and NBI Chairman David McCourt. It provides monthly grants to rural community organizations in Ireland to support their digital ecosystems.
2. Who supports the RISE Community Fund?
The RISE Community Fund is supported by corporate sponsors, including KN Circet, KPMG, Test Triangle, DreamDev Technologies, and TLI Group.
3. How are the grants awarded?
Grants are awarded to community groups, charities, small businesses, and social enterprises in rural areas who demonstrate innovative and creative uses of technology to maximize their impact.
4. What technologies are organizations using?
Organizations supported by the RISE Community Fund are embracing various technologies, including artificial intelligence, drones, and online platforms, to enhance their operations and achieve their goals.
5. Where can I find more information about the National Broadband Plan?
For more information about the National Broadband Plan and to check if your home, farm, or business is included in the rollout, visit the NBI website at nbi.ie.
1. What is RISE?
RISE is a funding program established by Granahan McCourt and NBI Chairman David McCourt. It provides monthly grants to rural community organizations in Ireland to support their digital ecosystems.
2. Who supports the RISE Community Fund?
The RISE Community Fund is supported by corporate sponsors, including KN Circet, KPMG, Test Triangle, DreamDev Technologies, and TLI Group.
3. How are the grants awarded?
Grants are awarded to community groups, charities, small businesses, and social enterprises in rural areas who demonstrate innovative and creative uses of technology to maximize their impact.
4. What technologies are organizations using?
Organizations supported by the RISE Community Fund are embracing various technologies, including artificial intelligence, drones, and online platforms, to enhance their operations and achieve their goals.
5. Where can I find more information about the National Broadband Plan?
For more information about the National Broadband Plan and to check if your home, farm, or business is included in the rollout, visit the NBI website at nbi.ie.