Image: Liam Horan, Connected Hubs, presents at a workshop of CODIL partners.
Ireland’s Connected Hubs model is now supporting the development of structured coworking networks in France and Finland through an EU pilot action.
Led in Ireland by the Western Development Commission (WDC) and sponsored by the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Connected Hubs has grown into a national network of more than 400 digitally enabled hubs. Through the CODIL pilot action, funded under the EU’s Interreg Europe programme, that experience is now informing how other European regions organise hub networks, develop shared digital platforms and embed remote working infrastructure within regional policy.
In Mayenne, France, approximately 15 coworking hubs are now participating in a structured regional network, supported by monthly steering meetings. A new landing-page website, drawing inspiration from the Connected Hubs model, will soon be launched, featuring a regional hub map and shared events diary. Discussions with Laval Agglomeration and the County of Mayenne have also confirmed that the hub network will be integrated into the county’s new attractiveness roadmap.
In South Ostrobothnia, Finland, open days brought together hub operators, entrepreneurs, students and remote workers to explore the future of community-based workspaces. The event highlighted the success of the five-year Jamsantehtaat remote working space and included a participatory workshop to design a future ‘dream hub’ concept.
“The expansion of the Connected Hubs approach into Europe shows that distributed working is no longer an experiment. Regions are actively looking for structured ways to support talent, enterprise and community connection. CODIL gives us a framework to share what works and adapt it locally.” Stephen Carolan, Head of Connected Hubs and Digital Innovation, WDC
The Connected Hubs model combines shared digital infrastructure, hub manager onboarding and training, coordinated marketing and alignment across a wide variety of policy areas. Through CODIL, partners are adapting these principles to their own governance and funding environments.
“The pilot also places a strong emphasis on monitoring and impact measurement, with partners agreeing to refine key performance indicators in the coming months to ensure that economic and social outcomes are clearly documented.” Stephen Carolan, Head of Connected Hubs and Digital Innovation, WDC
“As remote and hybrid working continues to reshape regional economies, the CODIL Pilot Action demonstrates how structured hub networks can move from national initiative to European collaboration, in the process supporting talent retention, local enterprise and stronger communities across regions.” Stephen Carolan, Head of Connected Hubs and Digital Innovation, WDC
About the CODIL Project
What is the CODIL pilot action?
CODIL is an EU-funded pilot action under the Interreg Europe programme. It brings together partners from Ireland, France and Finland to share experience and learning around building structured regional coworking hub networks. The project uses Ireland’s Connected Hubs model as a reference point, adapting its principles to different regional governance and funding environments across Europe.
What is the Interreg Europe programme?
Interreg Europe is a European Union funding programme that supports interregional cooperation across EU member states. It enables regional governments, public authorities and organisations to share experience and good practice on topics including innovation, environmental sustainability, and the digital and social economy. CODIL is one of several pilot actions supported under the programme.
Which countries are involved in CODIL?
The CODIL pilot action currently involves three countries: Ireland, France and Finland. In France, the project is focused on the Mayenne region, where approximately 15 coworking hubs are now participating in a structured regional network. In Finland, the project is focused on South Ostrobothnia, where open days have brought together hub operators, entrepreneurs and remote workers to explore the future of community-based workspaces.
What is the Connected Hubs model?
The Connected Hubs model is Ireland’s approach to building a national network of digitally enabled coworking and remote working hubs. It combines shared digital infrastructure, hub manager onboarding and training, coordinated marketing, and policy alignment across a wide range of areas. The network is led in Ireland by the Western Development Commission (WDC) and sponsored by the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht. It now includes more than 400 hubs across every county in Ireland.
Who leads the CODIL project in Ireland?
CODIL is led in Ireland by the Western Development Commission (WDC), which also leads the Connected Hubs national network. Liam Horan at the WDC, is the lead Irish representative on the project.
Where can I find out more about Connected Hubs?
The full Connected Hubs network, including hub listings, booking and business supports, is available at connectedhubs.ie.
