Two council areas in Northern Ireland have announced new PEACEPLUS-supported initiatives. Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council will hold a free funding fair, while Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council has launched a digital skills programme.

The Antrim and Newtownabbey funding fair will bring together more than 40 exhibitors, including The National Lottery Community Fund, Community Foundation Northern Ireland, Halifax Foundation Northern Ireland, Sector Matters by NICVA, Social Enterprise Northern Ireland, BBC Children in Need and Supporting Communities. Visitors can speak directly with funders and organisations offering advice, guidance and specialist services. Registration is required for the free event via the council website.

Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Henry Cushinan, said the fair would help local community organisations, volunteers, businesses and residents connect with funders to turn ideas into reality and build partnerships.

Separately, the Digital Future Programme is now underway in the Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough. It forms part of the Mini Digi Hub project, supported by PEACEPLUS and managed by the Special EU Programmes Body. The programme is linked to Bleary Digi Hub and will be delivered by Sentinus through events and workshops for schools, community groups and families, focusing on digital skills and pathways into digital careers.

Lord Mayor Councillor Mary O’Dowd said the programme would enhance digital learning, working and living across rural communities, with project partners sharing resources and expertise.

In November 2025, the East Border Region local authority led cross-border group secured just over €6 million to fund the Mini Digi Hub Project, aiming to transform underutilised public buildings into digital hubs. Councillor PJ O’Hanlon, Chairman of East Border Region, said the project would revitalise rural towns and villages in the border region. David Pilkington, CEO of Sentinus, said the programme would help people of all ages prepare for opportunities at Bleary Digi Hub.