The key role that hubs play in towns and villages around Ireland was reflected in the prize winners list at last night’s Digital Town Awards, according to Stephen Carolan, Programme Manager, National Hubs Network.

“What is really striking is how many of the winning entries are centred on their local hubs, most notably in Dingle which won the Overall National award, having earlier captured the Small Towns award.  Dingle Creativity and Innovation Hub was a central element in Dingle’s entry,” said Stephen, who oversees the newly launched ConnectedHubs.ie platform, a Government of Ireland initiative.

Hubs also featured prominently in the successful submissions from Dingle Creativity and Innovation Hub; Edgeworthstown (Medium Town winner); Dun Laoghaire (Urban Town winner); Skibbereen (Digital Changemaker); and Arranmore Island (Small Town runner-up).

“Vibrant hubs are a real catalyst for digital transformation in towns and villages all over Ireland. Digitisation of our communities is another important step towards sustainability,” added Stephen.

“All of this corresponds with our vision for hubs as places of innovation and community leadership.”

The ConnectedHubs.ie platform was launched last month by Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys, TD.

The National Hub Network Working Group, led by the Department of Rural and Community Development, has identified and mapped close to 400 remote working hubs across the country. The Connected Hubs network represents Ireland’s first national network of remote working hubs and is being project managed by the Western Development Commission.

Full details of the Digital Towns awards are available HERE