The Western Development Commission (WDC), as the lead partner, announces the kick-off of N-LITE, a new European Union project set to redefine Literary Tourism in Ireland’s Western Region. N-LITE, short for “Literary Tourism Immersive Technology Acceleration,” aims to merge innovative immersive technology with the region’s rich literary heritage, thereby fostering economic growth and employment opportunities.
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The project, with a total budget of €1.5 million, partially funded under the Interreg Northern Periphery and Arctic (NPA) program, underscores the ambitious scope and potential impact on the Western Region’s tourism and economy. The project’s first partner meeting, held in November 2023 in Skellefteå, Sweden, marked a pivotal moment in this collaborative journey involving international partners from various sectors.
N-LITE is a collaboration between the WDC in Ireland, Kajaani University of Applied Sciences and Regional Council of Kainuu in Finland, Visit Tórshavn in the Faroe Islands, Västerbotten County Council in Sweden, and The Nordland Museum in Norway. This diverse consortium brings together a wide range of expertise and perspectives, underlining the project’s commitment to a comprehensive and multi-faceted approach to enhancing the Literary Tourism sector.
N-LITE’s mission, closely aligned with the Western Development Commission’s strategic goals, is to enhance the NPA and the Western Region of Ireland’s appeal as a prime destination for literary tourism.
By exploring and utilizing a range of potential immersive technologies, such as Augmented Reality, Virtual Reality, and 3D/360 Imaging, N-LITE aims to equip SMEs in the Literary Tourism sector with innovative tools. These technologies will create immersive and interactive experiences, attracting a broader audience to our rich literary heritage.
Ian Brannigan, Head of Regional Development at the Western Development Commission
The recent partners’ meeting in Skellefteå focused on the project’s commitment to exploring technological options that best suit the unique needs and potentials of the NPA and the Western Region of Ireland. Discussions led by technology experts highlighted the importance of choosing the right technologies to bring Irish and European literary heritage to life innovatively and respectfully.
Sustainability and inclusivity are at the core of the N-LITE project. The project is committed to developing tourism that respects and preserves the natural and cultural heritage of the region, contributing to sustainable regional development. The initiative aims to extend the tourism season in the Western Region through innovative digital content, ensuring year-round benefits.
Youth engagement is a key focus for N-LITE. Collaborations with universities in the region are planned to involve youth in the Literary Tourism sector. In 2024, N-LITE will organize workshops that bring together young people and SMEs, fostering dialogue and integrating fresh perspectives into the sector.
N-LITE is more than just a technological venture; it is a means to stimulate economic growth and job creation in the Western Region. By equipping local SMEs with cutting-edge tools and knowledge, the project aims to enhance their competitiveness and market presence, positively impacting the region’s economy and benefiting local communities.
The WDC invites businesses, community organisations, festivals and other stakeholders in the Literary Tourism sector to collaborate on the N-LITE project. We are seeking partners who are interested in utilizing new technologies in literary tourism. This includes SMEs, technology experts, educational institutions, and others passionate about literature and tourism.
For more information about the N-LITE project and how to get involved, please contact Mary Keaveney at marykeaveney@wdc.ie.
