The Smart Village Network Project (SVNP), a €4.9 million initiative aimed at driving sustainability and digital innovation, has been officially launched at the Guildhall. Supported by the PEACEPLUS programme and managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB), the project focuses on boosting social inclusion and economic growth across the North West City Region until June 2029.

Led by Derry City and Strabane District Council, the partnership includes Donegal County Council, ERNACT, Ulster University, and North West Regional College. The project will create a cross-border network consisting of six new digital hubs and the enhancement of six existing facilities. These hubs will be equipped with advanced technology and sustainability features to support enterprise, skills development, and community engagement.

Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs Andrew Muir MLA said: "The launch of the Smart Village Network Project marks an important milestone in supporting rural communities to adapt and thrive in an increasingly digital world. Through PEACEPLUS investment, this project will deliver practical, community focused support – from digital hubs and skills development to mentoring and action planning – helping address challenges including digital exclusion and the transition to a low carbon future. I am encouraged by the strong cross border partnership behind this initiative and its potential to strengthen local capacity, connectivity and long-term sustainability across the region." The project received further backing from Irish government representatives. Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary TD, said: "I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who helped the Smart Village Network Project get off the ground. I am delighted that my Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht will provide support for this outstanding project in partnership with the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs in Northern Ireland and the Special EU Programmes Body. Long-term benefits for the area will result from this initiative's successful achievement".

Minister of State Jerry Buttimer TD added: "Through the distribution of this essential funding, the Smart Towns and Villages Investment Area aims to deliver improved social and economic development in rural towns and villages. Additionally, it seeks to enhance the quality of life in rural areas and strengthen our communities for long-term sustainability. Its legacy will be the creation of more desirable places for people to live and work."

In Derry and Strabane, investment will target facilities in Castlederg, Newtownstewart, Plumbridge, Park, Claudy, and Eglinton. Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Cllr Ruairí McHugh said: "As someone rooted in a rural community, I am delighted to launch the Smart Village Network Project, which offers a practical response to challenges like digital exclusion and distance from services. For Derry and Strabane, investment in six facilities across Castlederg, Newtownstewart, Plumbridge, Park, Claudy, and Eglinton will evolve these important local spaces into accessible hubs for learning, work, and enterprise. By linking our hubs with those in Donegal, we are creating a powerful cross-border network that builds regional resilience and helps our communities thrive in a digital and green future."

Cathaoirleach of Donegal County Council, Cllr Paul Canning said: "What makes this project especially valuable is that it is not only about buildings or technology, it is about people. It is about creating welcoming places where communities can learn new skills, start businesses, access services and connect across borders. That is the real value of this investment."

SEUPB Chief Executive Gina McIntyre noted that the project is a "strong example" of PEACEPLUS investment addressing real needs through practical cooperation. The launch event, hosted by Jeananne Craig, also featured insights from guest speaker Leah Fairman of Connected Hubs regarding the role of digital hubs in community resilience.

PEACEPLUS is a joint funding venture between the European Union, the UK Government, the Government of Ireland, and the Northern Ireland Executive.