The Digital Hub has opened applications for its AI for Communities residency, an initiative designed to help communities understand and engage with artificial intelligence. The four-month programme will develop and pilot a community-centred model for AI learning and participation at The Digital Hub campus in Dublin 8.
Applications are open to individuals and multidisciplinary teams with experience in AI literacy, AI technologies, education, community engagement, digital innovation or social innovation. Expressions of interest must be submitted by Friday, 9 October 2026, at 11:59pm.
AI for Communities residency aims to widen access
The Digital Hub said the programme responds to the growing role of AI in education, employment and public services. Its central objective is to ensure that people and communities can participate meaningfully in technological change, rather than simply experience its impact.
During the residency, the successful participant or team will work on developing and testing practical approaches to AI learning and engagement. The programme is expected to begin before the end of 2026 and will run for four months.
Who can apply?
The open call is suitable for applicants who can contribute expertise in areas including:
- Artificial intelligence and emerging technologies
- AI literacy and public education
- Community development and engagement
- Digital or social innovation
- Learning programme design
The initiative is relevant to Ireland’s wider digital transformation agenda, including work across gov.ie, the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Education, Further and Higher Education, and public-service organisations adopting new technologies.
Read more: Ireland technology and innovation updates
The Digital Hub continues its community role in Dublin 8
The residency is part of The Digital Hub’s broader programme of activity in Dublin’s Liberties. The campus supports technology, creative and community initiatives, while also hosting events, learning opportunities and member organisations.
Recent activities have included cultural events, photography learning, community gatherings and the use of multipurpose spaces for workshops, training, showcases, rehearsals and business events. The campus also announced availability for Bay 1, a 2,551.5-square-foot space in the Digital Depot building, for bookings in December.
The organisation’s work sits within a broader ecosystem that includes agencies such as IDA Ireland, Enterprise Ireland, the Health Service Executive (HSE), the National Transport Authority (NTA), the Central Statistics Office (CSO) and the Higher Education Authority (HEA), all of which contribute to Ireland’s changing digital and innovation landscape in different ways.
Explore more: Dublin events, culture and public initiatives
How to apply for the AI residency
Applicants should review the full residency details and submission requirements through The Digital Hub’s official channels. The deadline for expressions of interest is 11:59pm on 9 October 2026. Further information is available through the organisation’s website and linked application resources.
The call offers an opportunity for specialists and community-focused practitioners to shape a practical approach to AI education—one that reflects local needs and supports inclusive participation.
Key questions about the programme
When is the application deadline?
Expressions of interest must be submitted by 11:59pm on Friday, 9 October 2026.
How long will the residency last?
The AI for Communities residency will run for four months and is expected to begin before the end of 2026.
Where will it take place?
The residency will be based at The Digital Hub campus in Dublin 8.
AI for Communities gives practitioners a timely opportunity to help shape how people learn about and use artificial intelligence. The key takeaway is clear: eligible applicants should review the call promptly and submit their expressions of interest before the October deadline.
Article/Image Courtesy: The Digital Hub
