Northern Ireland’s full fibre broadband provider, Fibrus, has today (22 April) launched its 2024 Community Fund where £60,000 will be available for rural community groups.
The company has allocated £115k to local groups in Northern Ireland since launching the fund in 2021 and will continue its sponsorship throughout 2024, with a focus on addressing digital poverty and fostering inclusivity within local communities.
Fibrus, which make fibre broadband more accessible in regional and rural towns and villages across Northern Ireland and Northern England, prioritises grassroots organisations, helping older individuals and those aged 18 and under.
Linda McMillan, Chief People Officer at Fibrus, said: “Giving back to the local community is one of our core missions at Fibrus and our partnership with the Community Foundation NI allows us to play a vital role in enhancing people’s lives through improved digital literacy and connectivity.
“Originally established to combat digital poverty, the Fibrus Community Fund directs all available funding for the year towards deserving organisations, underlining our dedication to create a digitally inclusive society. We are delighted to continue this sponsorship in 2024 and help all within our community get connected.”
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Projects involved so far range from Armagh Westenders’ initiative, supporting elderly and vulnerable individuals with digital literacy programmes, to HYPE Learning's homework club in Killicomaine, which received iPads to facilitate internet access for children after school.
Pictured (above and main image): Glenn Kerr, Balinrees Bowling Club member, Linda McMillan, Chief People Officer at Fibrus, Jonathan Kerr, Balinrees Bowling Club president, Dawn Weir, Grants Manager at Community Foundation NI.
Coleraine-based Ballinrees Bowling Club received £1,640 to enhance their IT resources and offer IT classes, addressing the digital skills gap in both younger and older members of the rural community.
Heather Calvin, Quality Assurance Assessor at the Ballinrees Bowling Club, said: “Fibrus is doing excellent work in ensuring all areas, including the most rural, across Northern Ireland are connected with its full fibre broadband, a huge benefit in helping a club like ours get online. This sponsorship has been incredibly beneficial to our local community with the funds enabling us to purchase two laptops and three tablets.
“We also hired an IT professional to support members of the local community and conduct classes, which were well-received by everyone involved. We’ve received so much positive feedback from those who benefited from the funding and we would encourage everyone who can benefit from full fibre broadband to take advantage of any future funding available.”
Orla Black, Grants Director at Community Foundation NI, said: “We are delighted to have Fibrus onboard again this year to help rural communities stay connected. Addressing digital exclusion is a priority for the Community Foundation NI and this fund is tackling the issue head on.
“The opportunities facilitated by the Fibrus Community Fund, such as purchasing devices for online access and enhancing computer skills, will certainly strengthen connectivity within these communities.
"The remarkable outcomes achieved last year demonstrate the fund's efficacy, and we are looking forward to the positive impact it will have on local communities in the upcoming year."
The next round of funding is now open and will close on Friday 17 May 2024.
