On Tuesday, 8 September 2026, the Mobile Digital Lab (MDL) welcomed a group of 12 participants from Phase 2 of New Frontiers at Dundalk Institute of Technology (DKIT) for an engaging technology showcase designed to inspire, inform and introduce them to the possibilities of digital technology for their future ventures.
The session was developed as a taster of what the Mobile Digital Lab can offer, giving participants the opportunity to explore a range of emerging and practical technologies in a relaxed, hands-on environment.
With entrepreneurship at the heart of the New Frontiers programme, the visit provided an opportunity to look beyond technology for technology’s sake and consider how tools such as artificial intelligence, virtual reality, wearable technology, video and podcasting could become valuable assets when developing and promoting a new business.
During the 45-minute showcase, participants were introduced to a selection of technologies and activities available through the MDL programme.
The session included demonstrations of Virtual Reality, Smart Glasses and AI on iPads, alongside an introduction to podcasting, video production, gaming and the range of laptops and tablets available through the Lab.
The aim was not to provide an in-depth workshop in each area, but rather to give participants a flavour of what is possible and encourage them to think about how these technologies might fit into their own ideas and ventures.
From creating professional video content and podcasts to exploring immersive experiences through VR and discovering how AI can support everyday business activities, the showcase highlighted how digital skills can play an important role in modern entrepreneurship.
For anyone starting a business, knowing what technology is available — and understanding how to use it effectively — can open up new opportunities.
April McCrave, who hosted the New Frontiers engagement with the Mobile Digital Lab, highlighted the potential value of exposing participants to these technologies at an early stage of their entrepreneurial journey.
“The Mobile Digital Lab can really inspire and inform participants about what is possible for their future ventures. Giving them the opportunity to experience different technologies first-hand can help them think differently about how they might develop, promote and deliver their business ideas. Workshops such as Podcasting could be a real benefit to each participant, particularly as they look at ways to tell their story, build their profile and connect with their future customers.”
The podcasting element is particularly relevant for entrepreneurs who are developing their personal and business brands. A podcast can provide a platform to share expertise, tell a founder’s story, engage with potential customers and build a community around a new venture.
Likewise, video and social media content are increasingly important tools for businesses looking to communicate their value and reach new audiences.
The New Frontiers visit demonstrated the role the Mobile Digital Lab can play in helping people discover technology, build confidence and explore new ideas.
The MDL is designed to make digital technology more accessible, giving community groups, businesses, educators and individuals the opportunity to experience technologies that they may not otherwise have the chance to use.
For the New Frontiers participants, the showcase was a chance to step outside the traditional business-development environment and consider how digital tools could become part of their entrepreneurial journey.
Whether it is experimenting with AI, creating a podcast, producing video content, exploring VR or simply becoming more confident with digital technology, the possibilities are broad.
The session also highlighted an important message for new entrepreneurs: you don’t always need to know exactly how a technology will fit into your business before you explore it. Sometimes experiencing something new is what sparks the idea in the first place.
The Mobile Digital Lab looks forward to continuing to support programmes such as New Frontiers and helping future entrepreneurs discover the technologies, skills and creative possibilities that can help bring their ideas to life.
