The RISE Community Fund has awarded a cash grant to Gaelscoil Shlí Dála, a rural primary school dedicated to the Irish language, providing a cash boost for new tech equipment to support its new facilities that are currently under construction.
The funding comes as part of a new national programme by the RISE Community Fund to provide cash injections to schools in every county throughout 2026, supporting technology investments that enhance digital learning and maximise the benefits of high-speed broadband connectivity.
The RISE Community Fund is supported by National Broadband Ireland and partners involved in the delivery of the Government’s National Broadband Plan, including KPMG, DreamDev Technologies, TLI Group, Entegro, Obelisk and Circet.
The grant will enable Gaelscoil Shlí Dála to move forward with a number of technology investments that are planned to significantly enhance teaching, learning and digital skills development across the school.
Commenting on the grant, David McCourt, Chairman of National Broadband Ireland and founder of the RISE Community Fund, said: “When we created RISE, it was with a clear purpose – to ensure that rural communities could fully benefit from the transformative power of connectivity. As the National Broadband Plan progresses towards completion, it’s vital that our schools are equipped not just with access to broadband, but with the technology that allows them to use it effectively. Due to the successful philosophy installed by Gaelscoil Shlí Dála which is supported by digitally equipped classrooms, they’re seeing increased demand for places. We are proud to support their ambition and to back schools like this in every county across Ireland throughout 2026.”
Príomhóide Treasa Uí Chinnéide commented: “We are absolutely delighted to receive this funding from National Broadband Ireland and the RISE Community Fund at such an exciting time for Gaelscoil Shlí Dála. Construction is currently underway in Ballaghmore as we expand our facilities to meet growing enrolment, with new classrooms, shared spaces and enhanced outdoor areas planned as we prepare to reopen to mark our 20th school year. This grant will play an important role in supporting the technology requirements of our new school building and in helping our pupils and teachers further develop their digital skills as part of everyday learning.”
Established by David McCourt, the RISE Community Fund has awarded around 200 cash grants nationwide to rural schools, community groups, farms, small businesses and social enterprises seeking to use technology to scale the positive impact of their work.
Through its 2026 national schools programme, the fund aims to ensure that children in rural Ireland can fully benefit from digital connectivity and develop the skills needed to thrive in a modern, technology-driven world.
National Broadband Ireland is encouraging residents across County Laois to visit nbi.ie and check their Eircode to see if they are ready to connect and to find out more about placing an order.
Further information about the RISE Community Fund is available at www.riseglobalfoundation.com.
