STRIDE is a €3.5 million PEACEPLUS-funded initiative that supports rural communities across Fermanagh, Tyrone, Leitrim and Sligo to develop digital solutions to local challenges and create stronger, more connected communities. Managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB), the programme brings together communities, public sector organisations, educational institutions and innovation partners to co-create practical technology-enabled solutions that improve quality of life and strengthen long-term sustainability.

Smart Rural Innovation Driven Empowerment (STRIDE) is a cross-border programme designed to help rural communities identify challenges, develop innovative ideas and implement digital solutions that deliver real social and economic impact.

Operating through innovation hubs at The Workhouse in Enniskillen and The HIVE in Carrick-on-Shannon, STRIDE places specialist teams directly within communities to support collaboration, innovation and capacity building.

Our Mission

To empower rural communities through digital technologies, enabling local people to address challenges, strengthen resilience and create sustainable solutions for future generations.

Our Vision

A thriving cross-border region where rural communities have the digital tools, skills and networks needed to develop innovative solutions to local challenges and improve community wellbeing.

How STRIDE Works

Discover

Working with community groups, volunteers, residents and local organisations to identify challenges and opportunities through open engagement and community consultation.

Co-Create

Using Design Thinking methodologies to develop practical solutions that respond directly to community needs.

Build Capacity

Providing communities with the skills, confidence and digital knowledge needed to continue innovating long after the project has ended.

Key Programme Outcomes

STRIDE aims to:

• Engage more than 1,000 rural citizens and key public agencies.

• Identify and address over 80 rural-specific social innovation challenges.

• Develop a Digital Empowering Communities Portal.

• Deliver eight large-scale transformational projects.

• Create innovative digital solutions that improve community services and opportunities.

Areas of Impact

STRIDE supports communities to develop solutions in areas including:

Healthcare Access

Improving access to healthcare information, services and support through digital technologies.

Education and Skills

Enhancing digital literacy, learning opportunities and community skills development.

Transportation

Developing smarter approaches to rural transport and mobility challenges.

Economic Development

Supporting local businesses, producers and entrepreneurs through digital innovation.

Social Inclusion

Reducing isolation and creating stronger community connections.

Sustainability

Using technology to support environmentally sustainable communities and services.

South West College's Role

As Lead Partner, South West College is responsible for programme management and delivery, working alongside:

• Alacrity Foundation

• Atlantic Technological University

• Fermanagh and Omagh District Council

• Leitrim County Enterprise Fund

• Ulster University

Together, the partnership is helping communities across the border region harness technology to address local challenges and create lasting positive change.

Get Involved

STRIDE is open to community, voluntary, sporting and educational groups, as well as individuals interested in developing innovative solutions to challenges facing rural communities.

Whether you have an idea, a challenge to solve, or simply want to learn more about digital innovation in your community, STRIDE can help you turn ideas into action.

Find Out More

Visit the STRIDE Portal to explore community projects, digital solutions, events and opportunities to get involved.

Website: www.stride-programme.com

Funding

STRIDE is supported through PEACEPLUS, a programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB), and funded through the European Union's PEACEPLUS Programme.