Swansea social enterprise wins Welsh Government backing to exploit ICT

A Swansea-based social enterprise has been awarded funding to develop its ICT and digital services for the community through the Welsh Government’s digital inclusion programme, Communities 2.0.

Funding of around £6,000 will enable educational charity XL Wales to enhance its services by improving its own ICT resources and infrastructure. The charity provides parents with a stimulating alternative to traditional childcare by engaging children in interactive educational activities that also help them develop key life skills.

The enterprise’s aim is to promote learning in Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) as well as digital learning, to help children develop important problem-solving, team-working and communication skills. It utilises hands-on learning techniques to enthuse children through activities that are delivered across South and West Wales; including in community groups, museums, libraries, children’s clubs and family centres.

The funding will enable XL Wales to strengthen its internal ICT systems and upgrade its training equipment, including the purchase of five new laptops, 20 tablet computers and updated software. The new equipment will also allow the enterprise to expand its areas of operation, enabling further participants to benefit from accessing cutting edge software.

Communities 2.0 Project Director, Cathryn Marcus, said:

“Communities 2.0 is delighted to add its support to this great organisation. XL Wales has an established track record in delivering innovative and motivational STEM activities and we’re pleased to be helping this social enterprise utilise technology to develop the scope and reach of its services.

“Sustainable development through ICT is one of the themes at the heart of the Communities 2.0 programme and this investment will help ensure a sustainable future for XL Wales”.

To date over £451,756 has been approved for direct investment in enterprises and micro businesses in Wales through Communities 2.0.

Communities 2.0 is a Welsh Government programme which is part funded by the European Regional Development Fund.