DigiTay: Third Sector Challenge Fund

The Digital Skills Project invited proposals to help support individuals access digital skills training and support businesses to address their skills needs. The Digital Skills Third Sector Challenge Fund was for new and innovative pilot programmes, activities, or initiatives to address the digital skills gap in the Tay Cities Region. Funding was available for third sector organisations from £5,000 up to the value of £45,000 to deliver digital skills training taking place between April 2024 to September 2025.  7 organisations were successful in gaining funding which met the criteria and the total value of funding was £220,616

The successful organisations are as follows:

3D Novations has partnered with Autus on an innovative program empowering neurodivergent individuals and their families! Together, They are guiding 20 participants and 5 parents/carers through an exciting journey into data visualisation and the digital economy. This hands-on experience not only leads to recognised Level 2 OCN qualifications but also gives participants the chance to showcase their skills at vibrant community events. 

Archaeology Scotland launched ‘Recording Balgay Park: Digital Skills and Archaeology’, a transformative project designed to close the digital skills gap for 12 remarkable women from migrant, asylum-seeking, or refugee backgrounds living in Dundee. Through this archaeological survey, participants will develop invaluable digital expertise, build confidence, and gain transferable skills and creating pathways to success in both personal and professional devlopment.

Code Division is empowering 12 neurodiverse women in the Tay Cities Region through their groundbreaking project, ‘Empowering Neurodiverse Women in Data Science’. Participants will acquire cutting-edge data science skills, bridging the local digital skills gap, and unlocking exciting career opportunities. With strong employer partnerships, this initiative ensures that participants are equipped to thrive in a diverse and inclusive tech landscape. 

Elevator is preparing the workforce of tomorrow with ‘Digital Skills for a Future-Ready Tay Cities Workforce’. Targeting SMEs, this project delivers personalised, 1-to-1 digital upskilling sessions and large-scale events that connect 50 attendees in Dundee. A comprehensive 12-week program will further develop digital capabilities in 12 participants, positioning them for higher-skilled, higher-wage roles in the evolving tech sector. 

Options in Life is transforming the future of 40 young people with learning disabilities through ‘Access to Digital Skills for Employment’. By providing training in diverse digital disciplines, this initiative is opening new doors to employability, helping participants tap into a world of possibilities. 

Perth Autism Support is creating new futures for autistic young adults through its ‘Applied Computing Skills for Autistic Young Adults’ program. In partnership with Perth College, this 6-month initiative hones literacy, cyber security, and personal development, guiding 10 participants towards advanced computing qualifications and potentially, a thriving career in technology. 

The Workshop Aberfeldy is training individuals in the art of design with its inspiring ‘Digital by Design’ project. Participants will master the latest graphic design tools, business management software, and digital marketing strategies, gaining real-world skills for 2D & 3D design, all while growing their personal and professional development. 

 

If you would like find out more more about any of the above projects then please click on the providers’ name and this will take you through to their website.