ERNACT, the European digital transformation network co-founded by Donegal County Council and Derry City and Strabane District Council, has won the prestigious Interreg Northern Periphery and Arctic (NPA) Award for Delivering Change - recognising its leadership in advancing green and digital innovation across Europe's northern regions.
The award was presented at the NPA’s 25th Anniversary Conference in Bodø, Norway last night, and celebrates ERNACT’s work on a series of pioneering projects — including INNOCAP, MINDSET, IMPROVE, EMERGREEN, SMARCTIC, and DISTINCT — that have helped transform public services through technology, sustainability, and cross-border cooperation. It also reflects the NPA’s wider mission to inspire innovative solutions and shared learning across the NPA Programme area: Ireland, Finland, Sweden, Faroe Islands, Iceland, Greenland, Norway, and including Northern Ireland and Scotland.
Cllr Jack Murray, Chairperson of the ERNACT Board, said:
“This award highlights the many pioneering initiatives led by ERNACT that have transformed regional ideas into collective action through transnational cooperation.”
The award was accepted on behalf of ERNACT by Programme Manager, Jose Manuel San Emeterio, and Communication Manager, Leona McGee (both pictured).
Professor Dr Andrej Kos, Chairperson of the ERNACT Interregional Management Committee, added:
“This recognition is a testament to the strength of collaboration across borders. ERNACT’s work continues to empower regions to innovate together, delivering real change for communities through digital and green solutions.”
Dr. Caitriona Strain, ERNACT General Manager, commented:
“This award acknowledges the collective efforts of all our Interreg NPA projects and partners. By working together to enhance public services through digital innovation and technology, we have demonstrated how research and technology can be brought closer to people - making change faster, more affordable, and more impactful for our communities and regions.”
Based in Letterkenny, ERNACT connects regions across Europe to develop and deliver high-impact digital transformation projects, helping public authorities access EU funding and drive smart, inclusive growth.
Programme Manager, Jose Manuel San Emeterio and Communication Manager, Leona McGee