The Charter for Digital Inclusion is a national initiative encouraging organisations to work together to close Ireland’s digital divide.
It is a central element of the government’s AI – Good for Business initiative, reflecting the government’s commitment to ensuring no one is left behind in the digital age.
About the charter
The charter is grounded in the government’s wider digital ambitions, as set out in the National AI & Digital Strategy – Digital Ireland: Connecting our People, Securing our Future (February 2026).
This strategy outlines Ireland’s vision to 2030: to remain a global digital leader while supporting those who are not yet able to fully engage online. It reinforces the United Nations principle of 'Leave No One Behind'.
Despite progress, digital exclusion remains a barrier for many people. This may be due to:
- Limited access to devices or connectivity
- A lack of digital skills
- Difficulties navigating online services
Working together for inclusion
- The charter brings together public bodies, businesses, and community organisations to address these challenges and build a more inclusive digital future.
- It places a strong emphasis on partnership, including the role of larger organisations in supporting SMEs and local communities to adopt and benefit from digital technologies.
- Through collaboration, the charter supports organisations across all sectors to improve equitable access to digital technologies, services, and opportunities.
What the charter does
The charter provides a practical framework of principles and commitments that organisations can adopt to help bridge the digital gap.
Principles
Our approach is guided by the following core principles:
- Equity – ensuring no one is left behind
- Accessibility – designing services that are usable by all
- Affordability – supporting access to devices and connectivity
- Digital skills for life – promoting lifelong digital learning
- Trust and safety – upholding cybersecurity, privacy, and ethical data use
- Collaboration – working across sectors to deliver solutions
- Evidence-led action – using data to guide and improve outcomes
How can my organisation get involved?
Organisations can choose any of the following commitments that best align with their goals.
By signing the charter, organisations commit to taking action in one or all of the following:
- Supporting digital skills development
Providing staff with opportunities to build essential digital skills
- Embedding inclusion in operations
Integrating digital inclusion into everyday practices and recognising its role in wellbeing, access, and economic participation
- Ensuring accessible digital services
Designing websites and services that are easy to use and accessible to all users
- Engaging in inclusion initiatives
Supporting or leading initiatives aligned with the 'Leave No One Behind' principle
- Building partnerships
Collaborating with others to share knowledge and maximise impact
- Promoting sustainability
Encouraging the reuse and donation of digital equipment to communities in need
Registering for the Charter for Digital Inclusion
The Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment (DETE) invites organisations to endorse the charter and contribute to a more inclusive digital future.
Registering is quick and easy!
- Just fill in the Charter for Digital Inclusion form.
- Once approved, DETE will provide you with the official charter logo. You can display this on your website and social media to highlight your organisation’s commitment to digital inclusion.
- Please incorporate a case study to show how your organisation is committing to the charter.
Case studies
Explore case studies showing how businesses and organisations that have signed the Charter for Digital Inclusion are putting its principles into practice.
Signatories
View charter signatories to see the list of signatories who have pledged to support the Charter for Digital Inclusion.