Allstate marked a major milestone in its commitment to developing digital talent in the North West by recognising the winners of the inaugural Allstate Future Innovators Competition, delivered through the North West Digital Hub programme.
The 19 November event in the Everglades Hotel, Derry recognised the winners of the Allstate Future Innovators Competition, with students from St John’s Primary School, Foyle College, Lisneal College and Strabane Academy taking home prizes for their creative and technically impressive projects promoting safe driving through interactive gameplay. All teams were recognised for their innovative designs, demonstrating exceptional teamwork, problem-solving, and digital skills.
Launched in September 2025, the North West Digital Hub is a forward-looking educational initiative that boosts digital literacy and fosters innovation across schools in Derry and Strabane. Supported through a £30,000 grant from The Allstate Foundation, a U.S.-based nonprofit committed to empowering youth, seven pilot schools have already received cutting-edge digital equipment, enabling students to develop essential digital skills and access future ready learning experiences.
The Allstate Future Innovators Competition was developed in collaboration with the Police Service of Northern Ireland, Software NI, and local educators to inspire creative thinking around a vital public safety issue. This year’s theme, “Code for the Road – Safe Driving in a Digital World”, challenged pupils to use block coding to design apps, games, or simulations that promote safe driving habits and responsible technology use.
Stephen McKeown, Global Vice President and Managing Director of Allstate Northern Ireland, said:
“The North West Digital Hub is a major investment in the region’s future, giving young people access to the digital tools and hands-on experiences they need to thrive, aligning with the Department for the Economy’s goals around skill development, innovation and regional inclusion.
“The Future Innovators Competition has shown just how much creativity and potential exists within our schools, and it’s fantastic to see students using technology to promote such an important message around road safety.
“The North West has always played a central role in Allstate’s success, and we are committed to supporting its continued growth as a hub for digital talent. By working closely with partners, schools, and the wider community, we are helping to build the next generation of innovators who will drive forward the region’s economy and future opportunities.”
Minister for the Economy, Dr Caoimhe Archibald MLA, said:
“I want to thank Allstate NI for bringing this competition to life, and Software NI, the PSNI, and our local schools for partnering on this wonderful opportunity.
“It’s a great example of how industry and community collaboration can create opportunities and drive meaningful change. The development of our skills base across the north underpins my Economic Vision. By focusing on the development of digital skills and creativity through this competition, we are investing in the North West’s educational and technological future.
“It was a great pleasure to be in Derry amongst so many creative and innovative young people. They are the future of our economy and will shape workplaces, industries and their communities. I am committed to ensuring they have the skills needed to thrive in this bright future.”
The Allstate Future Innovators Competition will continue to expand as the North West Digital Hub grows, ensuring pupils across Derry and Strabane have greater access to transformative learning opportunities that inspire curiosity, confidence, and community impact.
Sync NI's Autumn 2025 magazine explores how Northern Ireland is moving AI from pilot to production
This issue features exclusive insights from industry leaders on real-world AI implementation, responsible adoption, enterprise infrastructure, and how data-driven innovation is transforming businesses across the region.
Read the Big Data Special Edition free online →
Stay connected with NI's tech community:
Subscribe to our newsletter – Get the latest tech news, job opportunities, and events delivered to your inbox
Visit Sync NI – Your daily source for Northern Ireland technology news
