“At NBI, we’re on a mission to connect every man, woman and child in the country, who doesn’t have access to high-speed broadband, to a world-class, superfast network.” This is according to National Broadband Ireland (NBI) chairman and technology entrepreneur, David McCourt and comes at a time that sees the country facing a severe crisis. NBI has since announced its latest endeavour that sees a partnership with RISE Global Foundation in their aim to support the development of rural communities.
The two businesses have launched the RISE Community Fund that will provide five monthly grants of €1000 to businesses, community groups or social enterprises. According to McCourt “we recognise that whilst connectivity is a vital utility and a critical first step, it alone can’t solve all of the challenges for businesses, community groups and social enterprises trying to expand their operations and accelerate the positive impact they’re able to have – both to the local community, and to the wider economy.” The fund offers the immediate cash payout to local communities seeking to boost their digital ecosystems.
The RISE Community Fund supported by NBI is a national programme that will follow the progress being made in NBI’s programme in building out the infrastructure for the National Broadband Plan (NBP). NBI CEO, Peter Hendrick says we’re starting off the fund by inviting applications across our first deployment areas. First up is Carrigaline and the surrounding townlands, which will soon be followed up by Cavan and then Dundalk in the coming weeks.
LSL News.