The announcement by Minister for Children, Disability, Equality, Integration and Youth, Norma Foley TD, of over €1 million in funding for digital and assistive technology (AT) projects marks a significant investment in supporting people with disabilities. Delivered through the HSE’s CREATE III initiative—Cooperative Real Engagement for Assistive Technology Enhancement—the funding aims to address unmet needs and enable full participation in work, education, leisure, and community life.
DFI has successfully secured €125,000 under this initiative through FreedomTech, in partnership with Enable Ireland, for the project “Empowering Inclusion: Strengthening Ireland’s Assistive Technology Ecosystem through CHAT, Community Hub for Assistive Technology.” This funding will expand the CHAT network’s work, ensuring that user experiences and expert knowledge guide the development of assistive technologies in Ireland.
The investment reflects confidence in the disability sector’s capacity to innovate, with many DFI member organisations among the nine projects selected for support. Funded initiatives span a broad spectrum, including accessible information standards, microprocessor knees, and digital supports for early childhood development.
DFI congratulates other recipients of the funding, including Inclusion Ireland in partnership with Brothers of Charity Services Ireland and St. Michael’s House, St John of God Community Services, The Rehab Group, St. Michael’s House with the HSE National Disability Quality Improvement Team, the National Rehabilitation Hospital, HSE Community Healthcare West Children’s Disability Network Team, and the Anne Sullivan Centre.
Looking ahead, DFI aims to collaborate within the CREATE Collective to drive digital equity and enhance independent living for people with disabilities across Ireland.
