AI for Communities is at the centre of a new four-month residency launched by The Digital Hub in Dublin 8, inviting applicants to help shape more inclusive and practical approaches to artificial intelligence. The open call, “AI for Communities – Empowering People Through AI”, is seeking individuals and multidisciplinary teams working across technology, education, community engagement and social innovation.
The initiative comes as AI becomes increasingly relevant to learning, employment, business and public services. The Digital Hub says the residency will focus on developing and piloting a community-centred model for AI learning and engagement, with the aim of helping more people understand and participate in the changing digital environment.
AI for Communities residency: What applicants need to know
The successful resident designer or facilitator will receive a fee of €12,000, inclusive of VAT. The programme is designed for people or teams with relevant experience in areas such as:
- AI literacy and emerging AI technologies
- Community development and engagement
- Education and learning design
- Digital innovation
- Social innovation
Expressions of interest must be submitted by Friday, 9 October 2026, at 11:59pm. Applicants seeking the full brief and application details are directed to The Digital Hub’s official information channels.
A community-focused approach to digital skills
Rather than treating AI as a purely technical subject, the residency is intended to explore how communities can engage with the technology in accessible and meaningful ways. This could include developing learning formats, testing engagement methods and identifying ways to support people who may otherwise be excluded from digital transformation.
The project also reflects wider national interest in digital skills, responsible innovation and technology that delivers public value. Organisations such as gov.ie, the Health Service Executive (HSE), Enterprise Ireland and the Higher Education Authority (HEA) operate in areas where digital literacy and responsible use of technology are increasingly important.
Read More: Ireland Technology and Innovation News
The Digital Hub’s wider role in Dublin 8
The Digital Hub continues to combine enterprise, education, culture and community activity at its campus in The Liberties. Its news programme includes member updates, learning initiatives, industry developments and public events.
Recent updates highlighted Hub News, a monthly newsletter featuring developments involving member organisations. The newsletter referenced recognition for Akara’s Niamh Donnelly, Codema’s Raytown Energy Dock being shortlisted for a climate award, and Meg Healthcare QMS joining the UK Government’s G-Cloud 15 Framework.
The campus is also scheduled to host cultural activity, including events linked to Dublin Fringe Festival, Culture Night and The Liberties Festival. These activities underline the role of innovation campuses as spaces for both economic development and local participation.
Explore More: Dublin Community, Culture and Public Affairs
Why the AI for Communities call matters
The residency offers an opportunity to move beyond discussion and test practical ways of making AI more understandable and useful. Its emphasis on participation, education and community experience may help inform future approaches to digital inclusion in Dublin and beyond.
With the application deadline approaching, eligible applicants should review the official brief and submit their expression of interest before the stated closing time. The key takeaway is clear: the AI for Communities residency is seeking expertise that can connect emerging technology with real community needs.
Article/Image Courtesy: The Digital Hub
