Applications are open for The Digital Hub’s AI for Communities residency, a new Dublin programme focused on making artificial intelligence more accessible, practical and inclusive. The four-month initiative will support a resident designer or facilitator in developing and piloting a community-centred model for AI learning and engagement.
The opportunity comes as AI becomes increasingly relevant to education, employment, business and public services across Ireland. By focusing on participation and digital literacy, the Digital Hub AI residency aims to explore how local communities can better understand and use emerging technologies.
Digital Hub AI Residency: What applicants need to know
The Digital Hub is seeking applications from individuals or multidisciplinary teams with experience in areas such as AI literacy, community engagement, education, digital innovation, social innovation or AI technologies.
The selected resident will work with The Digital Hub to develop and test a model that can support meaningful community participation in the development of AI knowledge and skills. The residency offers a fee of €12,000, inclusive of VAT, for the resident designer or facilitator.
- Programme: AI for Communities – Empowering People Through AI
- Duration: Four months
- Location: The Digital Hub, Dublin 8
- Fee: €12,000 VAT inclusive
- Closing date: Friday, 9 October 2026, at 11:59pm
Why community-focused AI matters
Artificial intelligence is increasingly influencing how people learn, work and access services. However, differences in confidence, training and access to technology can prevent some communities from benefiting from these changes.
The Digital Hub AI residency is designed to address that challenge through a practical and collaborative approach. Rather than concentrating solely on technical development, the programme places emphasis on AI learning, engagement and the needs of people in the community.
Applications open to individuals and multidisciplinary teams
The open call is intended for applicants who can combine specialist knowledge with strong communication and engagement skills. Relevant backgrounds may include education, technology, social innovation, community development and digital inclusion.
Applicants should review the official residency information and submission requirements before applying. The Digital Hub has directed prospective applicants to its online information channels for the full application details.
The initiative forms part of The Digital Hub’s wider role in supporting technology companies, learning programmes and cultural activity in Dublin 8. Its campus brings together member organisations, educational initiatives and events connecting technology with the local community.
How to apply for the Digital Hub AI residency
- Review the AI for Communities residency brief.
- Confirm that your experience matches the programme’s community and AI-focused requirements.
- Prepare an expression of interest addressing your relevant expertise and proposed approach.
- Submit the application before 11:59pm on 9 October 2026.
The programme is relevant to Ireland’s broader digital transformation agenda, which includes public bodies, education providers, enterprise agencies and community organisations. Organisations such as gov.ie, Enterprise Ireland, IDA Ireland, the Higher Education Authority and Solas operate in related areas of public innovation, skills and economic development, although the residency itself is being delivered by The Digital Hub.
Key takeaway
The Digital Hub AI residency offers a focused opportunity to help shape more inclusive AI learning in Dublin. For applicants working across technology, education or community development, the programme provides funding and a structured four-month setting to develop and pilot a practical model for public engagement with AI.
Article/Image Courtesy: The Digital Hub
