Dundalk IT unveils mobile digital lab to drive innovation across the East Border Region

The Regional Development Centre at Dundalk Institute of Technology is delighted to share the latest update on the Mobile Digital Lab (MDL), an exciting new resource that forms part of the innovative Mini Digi Hubs initiative funded through the PEACEPLUSProgramme – 2.4 Smart Towns and Villages managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB). This initiative is designed to address the digital divide, spark economic growth and foster inclusivity and balanced regional development across the East Border Region.

The central ambition of the Mini Digi Hubs project is to revitalise underutilised public buildings by transforming them into five state-of-the-art digital hubs, each tailored to the specific needs of its local community. These hubs will provide spaces for collaboration, creativity, and digital innovation. Working in tandem with these physical hubs, the Mobile Digital Lab (MDL) will extend the project’s reach even further, taking cutting-edge digital technologies on the road to communities, schools and businesses across the region.

Managed by DkIT, the MDL is a custom-built, fully mobile unit equipped with immersive and interactive technologies. It will act as a catalyst for digital adoption, delivering training, workshops and live demonstrations in areas such as virtual reality, digital creativity, industry applications, wellness, gaming and more. By combining mobility with advanced technology, the MDL will play a key role in enabling cross-border collaboration, pooling expertise and helping local enterprises and communities embrace the opportunities of the digital economy.

A major milestone was reached in early September 2025, when project leads Jason McGee and Aidan Browne, both from DKIT travelled to Estonia to undertake Factory Acceptance Testing with the MDL’s supplier. This process involved reviewing the build, testing systems, and ensuring the unit meets the highest standards ahead of its delivery to Ireland. Their visit confirmed that the MDL is on track to begin operations later this year.

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Faculty and students will have an opportunity to preview the MDL at the PRISM event in DkIT on 29 October 2025, offering attendees a unique chance to experience its innovative potential first-hand. The official launch of the MDL will follow on the Peace Campus in Monaghan on 21 November 2025, marking the beginning of its journey as a transformative digital resource for the region.

This project adds a significant investment that compliments the varied supports at Dundalk IT, with its focus on outreach and digital technology it’s the first of its kind in the region bringing state of the art technology and training direct to students, community groups and companies” said Aidan Browne Head of Innovation and Business Development at the RDC.

 The Mini Digi Hubs project is delivered in partnership with Monaghan County Council, Newry, Mourne and Down District Council, Meath County Council, Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon  Borough Council, and Ards and North Down Borough Council. Together, these partners are ensuring that the initiative leaves a lasting legacy by building a stronger, more connected and digitally empowered region.

Keep an eye on minidigihub.com for exciting updates.